Keele University

What you'll study

This conversion MSc covers core areas of psychology and the research methods required for advanced study. You will study modules across biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology, plus individual differences and psychometrics. Substantial emphasis is placed on quantitative research methods and statistics; the programme culminates in an independent research project (dissertation) that develops practical skills in experimental design, data collection and analysis.

Typical module topics include:

• Foundations of Psychological Science (major theoretical perspectives and history)
• Biological Bases of Behaviour
• Cognitive Psychology and Perception
• Developmental Psychology across the lifespan
• Social and Personality Psychology
• Research Methods and Experimental Design
• Advanced Statistics for Psychological Research
• Practical Research Project / Dissertation

Optional or elective sessions may cover applied areas such as health psychology, forensic psychology or applied cognitive approaches, and practical workshops on psychometric testing and report writing. The course integrates lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals, and supervised research, with formative assessment through essays, lab reports, exams and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need an undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology, usually at least a lower second-class (2:2) honours or an international equivalent. Relevant professional experience or prior study that demonstrates quantitative skills and academic readiness can strengthen an application. Candidates with a lower academic classification but substantial relevant experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet Keele’s English language entry standards (evidence of an approved qualification such as IELTS or equivalent). All applicants must provide academic transcripts and a personal statement explaining their motivation for converting to psychology; references are normally required.

Career prospects

Graduates from a BPS-accredited conversion MSc gain eligibility for the British Psychological Society’s Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), which is the necessary first step for postgraduate professional training in areas such as clinical, counselling, educational, forensic and occupational psychology. The degree also prepares students for research careers, including roles as research assistants or for progression to PhD study.

Other career destinations include graduate-entry roles in health services, social care, human resources, marketing and user experience research, where skills in data analysis, research design and understanding of human behaviour are valued. Many graduates combine the MSc with workplace experience or further professional qualifications to move into practitioner roles.

Why study at Keele University

Keele is known for its strong emphasis on research-informed teaching and interdisciplinary approaches to health and behavioural science. The psychology provision benefits from research groups working in areas such as mental health, health psychology, cognitive neuroscience and applied psychology, which feed into teaching and project supervision. The university offers well-equipped laboratories, computing facilities for statistical analysis, and access to specialist software and participant recruitment systems.

Students benefit from relatively small cohort sizes, which allow close contact with academic staff and personalised supervision for the dissertation. Keele’s careers and placement services support students in finding work experience and preparing applications for postgraduate professional training. The campus environment and supportive academic community aim to help conversion students transition successfully into the discipline and onward to professional or research pathways.