Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This MSc covers the core domains of contemporary psychology alongside practical research training. You will study modules in biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology, plus individual differences and lifespan approaches. The programme places strong emphasis on research methods and statistics, with practical laboratory and field-based components that develop quantitative and qualitative skills.

• Core theoretical modules — biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology and individual differences.
• Research methods and statistics — design, analysis and interpretation of experimental and non-experimental data, statistical techniques, and research ethics.
• Applied and professional skills — placement-orientated learning, professional practice, psychometrics, and communication of psychological findings to non-specialist audiences.
• Advanced topics or optional modules — depending on availability these may include health psychology, neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or organisational psychology.
• Research project / dissertation — an independent empirical project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to apply methods learned to a substantive question and produce a written dissertation.

The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, practical labs, small-group tutorials and supervised project work. Assessment methods typically include exams, coursework, laboratory reports, poster presentations and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in any subject. Candidates with a 2:2 may be considered where they can demonstrate relevant professional or research experience and strong supporting references. All applicants should submit a personal statement outlining their motivation for studying psychology and relevant experience; academic references are usually required.

International applicants must meet English language requirements appropriate to postgraduate study; details of accepted qualifications and scores are provided by the university. Where applicable, applicants may be invited to interview or asked to provide samples of written work.

Career prospects

Graduates gain the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society, which is an essential step for many professional training routes. Career paths taken by alumni include roles as research assistants, assistant psychologists, caseworkers and practitioners in health and social care, roles in education and youth services, and positions in human resources, learning and development, and market research.

Many students progress to further professional training and doctoral programmes (for example clinical, counselling or educational psychology training) or pursue research degrees (MPhil/PhD). The programme's strong research and statistics training also supports work in applied data roles and policy-related research.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a department with active research groups and staff expertise across cognitive, developmental, social and applied psychology, providing a supportive environment for postgraduate study. The MSc combines theoretical breadth with applied training, focusing on employability and real-world research skills.

Students benefit from practical teaching facilities, access to research labs and software, and links with local NHS services, schools and industry partners for placements and project opportunities. The university also provides postgraduate support services including careers guidance, academic skills workshops and a strong postgraduate community within Oxford's wider academic environment.