University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This master's combines advanced theory, research methods and applied practice in health-related psychological science. Core topics typically include biopsychosocial models of illness, behaviour change and self-management, psychological interventions for long-term conditions, pain and symptom management, and the psychology of healthcare interactions.

• Research methods and statistics: advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, measurement, study design and data analysis needed to conduct clinical and health psychology research.
• Health behaviour change: theoretical models and evidence-based techniques for promoting lifestyle change and adherence to medical regimens.
• Clinical interventions in health settings: psychological approaches used with patients with chronic illness, pain, cancer, cardiac disease and other health conditions, including brief therapies and self-management support.
• Psychology of illness and healthcare: patient experience, practitioner–patient communication, decision making and service delivery issues.
• Placement and applied practice: supervised experience in health settings or research projects that apply psychological assessment and intervention skills in real-world contexts.
• MSc dissertation or project: a substantial research project on a clinically relevant topic, under academic supervision, demonstrating competence in design, analysis and interpretation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in Psychology that confers eligibility for the British Psychological Society Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). Applicants who do not hold GBC may be considered on a case-by-case basis but should contact the department for advice.

• Relevant experience: previous research experience or experience working/volunteering in health or social care settings is desirable.
• References: academic and/or professional references that speak to suitability for postgraduate study and applied work.
• Additional checks: offers for applied placements may be conditional on satisfactory background checks (for example, a disclosure check) and any required health clearances.

Career prospects

Graduates use this MSc as a route into further clinical training, research careers and applied roles in health services. Typical paths include applying for Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or clinical health psychology doctoral training programmes, research posts in universities or NHS research units, and positions in public health, health promotion, clinical trials, service development and consultancy.

The programme also provides skills valued in commissioning and management roles within health boards, third-sector organisations and industry, including evidence appraisal, intervention design, evaluation and advanced data analysis.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde offers a strong applied and interdisciplinary emphasis, linking psychological science with healthcare practice through established collaborations with NHS boards and local health services. Teaching is delivered by research-active staff whose work addresses real-world clinical and public health challenges.

• Applied focus: opportunities for placements and collaborations with clinical teams help bridge academic learning and practice.
• Research environment: access to specialist facilities, statistics support and supervisory expertise for high-quality dissertations and research projects.
• Support for progression: careers and postgraduate application support designed to help students prepare for doctoral training, research careers and NHS roles.