phd after msc psychology

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Sweepstakes
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

Jobs With a Master's or Doctorate Degree in Psychology

• Jobs in Mental Health
• Jobs in Education
• Jobs in Government

Jobs in Applied Psychology

If you're majoring in psychology then you've probably been advised to get a graduate degree. Why? For many jobs in psychology, having a master's degree or doctorate in psychology is a requirement.

Because in most cases, a graduate degree in psychology can open the door to a much wider range of career opportunities and higher pay.

So, how can students determine which graduate program is right for them? What career options might be best? Because of the huge range of degree options and specialty areas, picking the one that is right for you can feel overwhelming. Spending some time researching different career paths can help you decide which career path is suited to your needs, interests, and educational background.

At a Glance

The first step is to begin by asking yourself some important questions. How long are you willing to go to school? Where do you envision yourself working? What areas of psychology interest you the most? Some of the most common areas of employment include mental health, education, business, and government.

Jobs in Mental Health and Social Services

If your ultimate goal is to work directly with people to help them overcome mental illness, then a specialty area focused on mental health and social services would be a good option for you.

While there are some entry-level positions in this field for those with a master's degree in psychology , those holding a PhD  or PsyD  will find more plentiful job opportunities.

Some job titles in this area include:

Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat individuals experiencing mental or emotional health issues. Most individuals in this area hold a PhD or PsyD, but some jobs are available for those with a master's degree in psychology.

Clinical psychologists often work in hospitals, counseling centers, schools, health clinics, or private practice. They often treat people experiencing a range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Counselors have many of the same job duties as clinical psychologists but tend to work more on helping individuals overcome issues affecting their daily lives rather than psychiatric illness.

Educational requirements can vary, but counselors must have a minimum of a master's degree in psychology, counseling, or education.​ To become licensed in your state, you will also need to complete a specified number of supervised clinical hours and pass a licensing exam.  

Counselors may have different titles depending on their degree and licensure. Some common ones include licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), and licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC).

Social Workers

Social workers often diagnose and treat mental illness or work for social welfare agencies. Those with an undergraduate degree in psychology may elect to obtain a master's degree in social work.

Masters-level social work graduates can become licensed to practice in all 50 states.

Jobs in Educational and School Settings

In addition to social services, those with a graduate degree in psychology are also qualified to work in research or educational settings. Colleges and universities employ doctorate-level (and occasionally masters-level) graduates to fill faculty positions.

Professors are generally expected to teach undergraduate- and graduate-level students and conduct research.

School Counselors

School counselors work with children who are having difficulty at home or school and assist students in making academic choices. Many also provide help with college applications and career choices.

School counselors hold a minimum of a master's degree in school counseling from an accredited program. They must also complete an internship and pass licensing examples.

School Psychologists

School psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat children experiencing behavioral, emotional, or academic problems. These individuals may also recommend treatments or work with parents, teachers, and others to help children overcome problems and achieve goals.

All states have differing requirements, but most require a minimum of a master's degree in school psychology. To become licensed, you must also complete a supervised internship and pass licensing exams.

Educational Psychologists

Educational psychology is the branch of psychology concerned with schools, teaching psychology, educational issues, and student concerns. Educational psychologists often study how students learn or work directly with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to improve student outcomes.

To become an educational psychologist, you will need at least a master's degree, although many states do require you to have a doctorate degree to practice as a licensed psychologist.

Jobs in Local, State, and Federal Government

Government and business entities often hire masters and doctoral graduates in psychology to conduct research. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, local and state governments frequently hire psychologists for jobs in correctional facilities, mental health clinics, public hospitals, and social service offices.

• Rehabilitation counselor
• Social service manager
• Parole officer
• Vocational rehabilitation provider
• Psychosocial specialist

Applied psychologists utilize their knowledge of psychology and research methods to improve people's lives and solve real-world problems. Individuals working in these fields may start with a master's degree in psychology, but positions tend to be more plentiful with a doctorate degree.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

Industrial-organizational psychologists study workplace behavior and ergonomics, often working to increase productivity or efficiency. The rising demand for skilled psychologists has led to an increase in the number of university programs offering degrees in industrial-organizational psychology.

I-O psychologists perform a variety of functions, including hiring qualified employees, conducting tests, designing products, creating training courses, and performing research on different aspects of the workplace.

I-O psychologists generally need to have a minimum of a master's degree, although opportunities and pay are better with a doctorate degree in psychology.

Forensic Psychologists

Forensic psychology involves applying psychology to the field of criminal investigation and law. Forensic psychologists typically have a master's in forensic psychology at the minimum, but many hold a PhD in clinical or counseling psychology.

Forensic psychologists may work in various settings, including family courts, drug courts, criminal courts, or private consulting.

Human Factors Psychologists

Human factors is an area of psychology that focuses on a range of different topics, including ergonomics, workplace safety, human error, product design, human capability, and human-computer interaction.

Human factors psychologists explore the ways that people interact with products and environments. They also help design interfaces that are easy to understand to maximize productivity and safety.

What This Means For You

Career options with a graduate degree in psychology are highly diverse. The best way to determine what path is right for you is to evaluate your own needs and interests . There are jobs with a master's degree in psychology, including in areas such as mental health and school counseling. For many profession, a doctorate degree in psychology opens up more jobs and opportunities for advancement.

American Psychological Association. A career in clinical or counseling psychology .

American Counseling Association. Licensure requirements: U.S. state and territory licensing of professional counselors .

National Association of Social Workers. Types of social work degrees .

American School Counselor Association. State requirements and programs .

National Association of School Psychologists. Overview of differences among degrees in school psychology .

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational outlook handbook; psychologists .

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. How to become a psychologist .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

FALL COURSE REGISTRATION  is open through August 29. Explore courses today.

• Academics /

Psychology Master’s Degree Program

Deepen your understanding of human behavior. Advance your career.

Online Courses

11 out of 12 total courses

On-Campus Experience

2 weekends or a 3-week summer course

$3,340 per course

Next Start Term: Fall 2024

Registration open through August 29

Program Overview

Psychology is an in-demand field, and a master’s degree in psychology provides a solid foundation for a variety of different career paths. Job opportunities in this field are expected to grow. And with many companies putting a greater emphasis on their employees’ mental wellbeing, professionals who have advanced psychology degrees are in greater demand.

In the Psychology Master’s Degree Program, you’ll explore a range of topics in psychology, cognitive science, and human development. Under the guidance of renowned faculty from Harvard and peer institutions, you’ll:

• Develop a greater understanding of the biological, behavioral, and psychosocial determinants of human behavior, including explorations of social, emotional, and cognitive functioning.
• Learn how research is carried out in psychology and cognitive science.
• Build a foundation in the statistics and other methods used in the field.
• Explore various topics to understand how the mind works: development, emotion, social psychology, cognitive neuroscience, positive psychology, and abnormal psychology.

Whether you’re preparing for a career pivot, advancement in your current role, or a doctoral program, you’ll build foundational knowledge in psychology to make a greater impact.

Program Benefits

Customizable path, stackable certificates, & experiential learning

Instructors who are academics and professionals at the top of their fields

Personalized academic advising

Faculty research and internship opportunities

A faculty-supported thesis or applied research project

Harvard Alumni Association membership upon graduation

Customizable Course Curriculum

Our curriculum is flexible in pace and customizable by design. You can study part time, choosing courses that fit your schedule and align with your career goals. You’ll experience the convenience of online learning and the immersive benefits of learning in person.

As you work your way toward your master’s degree, you can take courses that also count — or “stack” — toward the Topics in Human Behavior Graduate Certificate .

11 Online Courses

Synchronous and asynchronous options are available year-round.

Sample Courses:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neurobiology
• Mindfulness, Meaning, and Resilience
• Sleep and Mental Health
• The Opioid Epidemic

Join faculty and peers in person for Engaging in Scholarly Conversation, which you can take in either:

• 2 weekends (1 in fall and 1 in spring)
• A 3-week summer session

Read our course spotlight .

Capstone or Thesis Track

Choose the track that fits your goals:

• Thesis: features a 9-month independent research project with a faculty advisor
• Capstone: includes exploring a topic and completing a project in a classroom community

The path to your degree begins before you apply to the program. First, you’ll register for and complete 3 required courses, earning at least a B in each. These foundational courses are investments in your studies and count toward your degree, helping ensure success in the program.

Enroll for your first admission course this fall. Course registration is open July 22–August 29.

To get started, explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.

Earning a Stackable Certificate

As you work your way toward your master’s degree, you can take courses that also count — or “stack” — toward a graduate certificate. It’s a cost-effective, time-saving opportunity to build specialized skills and earn a second professional credential.

For each certificate, you can choose courses that best fit your goals.

Stackable graduate certificates include:

• Topics in Human Behavior

A Faculty of Psychology Experts

You’ll learn from Harvard faculty and industry leaders who will help you gain real-world perspectives. Our instructors are renowned experts in clinical psychology, neurobiology, psychopathology, and more. They bring a genuine passion for teaching, with students giving our faculty an average rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Shelley Carson

Associate of the Psychology Department, Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Bobbi Wegner

Adjunct Lecturer on Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education

Adrienne Tierney

Lecturer, MIT Writing and Communication Center

Our Community at a Glance

Many of our students in the Psychology Master’s Degree Program are established professionals looking to make a career change. Others are earning the degree for career advancement or as preparation for further advanced study.

Download: Psychology Master's Degree Fact Sheet

Average Age

Courses Taken Each Semester

Work Full Time

Would Recommend the Program

Professional Experience in the Field

Pursued for Career Change

Career Opportunities & Alumni Outcomes

Graduates of our Psychology Master’s Program work in the fields of mental health, research, healthcare, human resources, and education. Some alumni continue their educational journeys and work toward a PhD, including at Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, or Harvard School of Public Health. They have also pursued further studies in other nationally ranked degree programs, including those at Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, and Brown University.

Our alumni have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including:

• Postdoctoral Fellow
• Guidance Counselor
• Clinical Psychologist
• Academic Coordinator
• Research Program Manager
• Clinical Supervisor
• HR Consultant

Career Advising and Mentorship

Whatever your career goals, we’re here to support you. Harvard’s Mignone Center for Career Success offers career advising, online tools, employment opportunities, career fairs — including the Ivy+ Just in Time Virtual Career Fair — and connections to Harvard alumni mentors.

Your Harvard University Degree

Upon successful completion of the required curriculum, you will earn your Harvard University degree — the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: Psychology.

Expand Your Connections: the Harvard Alumni Network

As a graduate of the master’s degree program in the psychology field, you’ll become a member of the worldwide Harvard Alumni Association (400,000+ members) and Harvard Extension Alumni Association (29,000+ members).

As an international student, I could not have imagined that it’s possible that there would be this kind of community.

Mariam in an entrepreneur who launched her startup through the Harvard Innovation Labs.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.

After admission, you may qualify for financial aid . Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.

Learn more about the cost of attendance .

Coffee Chat: All About Liberal Arts Programs at HES

Are you interested in learning more about liberal arts graduate degree programs at Harvard Extension School? Attendees joined us for an informational webinar where they had the opportunity to connect with program directors, academic advisors, and alumni.

How long does it take to complete the psychology graduate program?

Program length is ordinarily anywhere between 2 and 5 years. It depends on your preferred pace and the number of courses you want to take each semester.

For an accelerated journey, we offer year round study, where you can take courses in fall, January, spring, and summer.

While we don’t require you to register for a certain number of courses each semester, you cannot take longer than 5 years to complete the degree.

What can you do with a master’s degree in psychology?

A master’s degree in psychology can open doors to a range of psychology-related careers, such as a behavioral counselor, career advisor, or drug and alcohol specialist.

This type of degree can also enhance non-psychology careers, like those in the fields of advertising, human resources, and retail sales.

Understanding human behavior is an invaluable skill that spans industries and careers.

What is the difference between a master’s degree in psychology and clinical psychology?

Both types of master’s degrees provide a detailed look into human behavior.

However, a psychology master’s degree can be broader in scope and more widely applicable to a variety of careers, while a clinical psychology masters is more specialized for analyzing and treating a range of mental health disorders.

What skills do you need prior to applying for the psychology master’s degree program?

Harvard Extension School does not require any specific skills prior to applying, but in general, it’s helpful to have solid communication, critical thinking, and active listening skills if you are considering a psychology master’s degree.

Initial eligibility requirements can be found on our psychology degree requirements page .

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

PhD vs Masters in Psychology

Key Takeaways

• A master’s degree in psychology takes about 2-4 years to complete, while a PhD takes 4-7 years to complete.
• A master’s degree in psychology prepares graduates for careers in counseling, therapy, or organizational psychology.
• A PhD in psychology can offer a deeper expertise and broader opportunities in research, academia, and specialized fields.

Are you stuck at a point in your career despite having a bachelor’s degree in psychology? Acquiring an advanced degree can help you progress and pursue rewarding career opportunities. This comprehensive guide on PhD vs master’s in psychology covers all that you’ll need to know to make an informed decision.

Featured Programs

Phd vs master’s in psychology.

Individuals seeking an advanced degree in psychology have two options: A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in psychology and a master’s in psychology (either an MA, Master of Arts, or an MS, Master of Science).

Your choice will significantly influence your career trajectory. A PhD is typically research-focused and oriented towards academia, while a master’s program is often more practice-oriented and can lead to licensure for clinical work.

When choosing between a master’s in psychology and a PhD, it’s crucial to consider your career aspirations, academic interests, time availability, and financial resources to make the best decision for your future.

Overview of PhD in Psychology

PhD in psychology , also known as a doctorate in psychology or doctoral degree, is a graduate degree that emphasizes original research and is designed for those aiming to become professors or researchers in academia or clinical psychologists. The program dives deep into complex statistics and research methodologies. You’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree and sometimes a master’s as a prerequisite.

A PhD program will often include comprehensive examinations, a thesis based on original research, and a longer timeline for completion, usually between 4 to 7 years. Due to the rigorous research component, many PhD programs offer various forms of funding, including assistantships, which may cover tuition and offer stipends.

Graduates with a PhD may pursue careers in a range of fields including health services, law, business, and government. Additionally, obtaining a doctoral degree is necessary for those looking to achieve licensure as a practicing psychologist.

Overview of Master’s in Psychology

Master’s in psychology, which can be obtained as a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS), generally takes a shorter time to complete than a doctorate—around 2 to 4 years. A master’s degree  typically requires about 30 credits of graduate-level coursework and may include a capstone project or thesis.

The master’s curriculum focuses on giving you practical experience through fieldwork or internships, preparing you for careers in areas such as school psychology, family therapy, or counseling psychology. With a master’s degree, you can expect to work in varied settings like hospitals, private practice, educational institutions, or business corporations.

Although a master’s degree may provide various career opportunities, for certain positions, especially those in clinical settings where you’re looking to work with patients, further licensure might be necessary. Additionally, those with a master’s degree may also work as research assistants in larger research projects, under the guidance of PhD holders.

A Comparison Between PhD and Master’s in Psychology

Before deciding between a PhD and a master’s in psychology, it’s important to understand how these degrees prepare you for different career paths and involve different financial and time commitment levels.

Similarities

• Prerequisite : Master’s and PhD degrees equip you with a deeper understanding of psychology  and a completed bachelor’s degree  is required to enroll.
• Research : In both programs, you will complete research projects to varying degrees and gain extensive knowledge of psychology.
• Employment : Both programs prepare you for diverse career opportunities within the field of psychology, such as positions in academia, clinical settings, or business.

Master’s and PhD degrees equip you with a deeper understanding of psychology, and require you to have completed a bachelor’s degree . In both graduate programs, you’ll be involved in research projects to varying degrees and gain foundational knowledge that can contribute to diverse career opportunities within the field of psychology, such as positions in academia, clinical settings, or business.

Differences

• Education : A PhD is usually focused on preparing you for a career in academia or advanced research positions. You will spend a significant amount of time conducting original research and completing a dissertation. Whereas, a master’s degree typically takes less time and is often seen as a stepping stone to a doctoral degree or a terminal degree.
• Licensure and career: If you’re aiming for roles that require licensure, like a licensed therapist or clinical psychologist, the path can differ. PhD programs usually include the required internships and practical experiences for licensure. Some master’s programs may also include them but most often require additional supervised clinical hours post-graduation.
• Time required: Completing a PhD can take anywhere from 4 to 7 years, whereas a master’s program can be finished in 1 to 3 years.
• Graduate school demand: Acceptance to PhD programs can be highly competitive due to funding opportunities like assistantships that cover tuition and offer stipends. For master’s programs, funding is less common, and they’re generally in higher demand.
• Tuition and funding : PhD students often receive tuition waivers and stipends through teaching or research assistantships, while master’s students may need to rely on scholarships, loans, or out-of-pocket payments to fund their program.

Major Distinguishing Factor

The most prominent distinction lies in the focus of the degree: A PhD is research-intensive, aiming to produce scholars who contribute original research to the field and may continue to teach or lead advanced studies. On the other hand, a master’s degree is more about direct practical application, preparing you for immediate employment within various psychology-related roles .

Whether you pursue a PhD in psychology for an academic or high-level research career or opt for a master’s to begin work sooner in a practical setting, understanding these differences is vital for aligning your education with your career aspirations.

When to Consider a PhD in Psychology

Enrolling in a PhD in psychology program signifies a commitment to deepen your expertise in the field and is a step in the right direction if your career aspirations include academia or high-level research positions. If you’re driven by a passion for original research and have a strong desire to contribute to the body of knowledge in mental health, a doctoral program is what you should aim for.

• Academic and teaching careers : With a PhD, you become qualified for faculty positions at universities where you can teach, mentor graduate students, and lead significant research projects.
• Higher salary potential : Although it depends on several factors, a PhD graduate may earn a higher salary than a master’s graduate, especially in roles like university professor or specialty researcher.
• Licensure and professional recognition : A PhD is often required for licensure as a clinical psychologist. This credential is important for practicing independently or holding senior clinical positions.

Here’s a quick breakdown of careers where a PhD is particularly beneficial:

With the demand for mental health professionals on the rise, job opportunities also expand. Your contribution to graduate studies could affect change and influence the direction of your chosen field. Additionally, funding for a doctoral program, though competitive, often covers tuition and provides a stipend, easing financial obstacles in your educational journey.

Remember, a PhD is a long-term investment in your education and career. It’s tailor-made for those who envision a future steeped in research, education, and advancing the psychological sciences.

When to Consider a Master’s in Psychology

If you’re contemplating higher education in psychology or aiming to improve and increase your career prospects without the extensive commitment of a doctoral program, a master’s in psychology  could be the right fit for you.

• Career and licensure:  If you desire to start practicing sooner, many roles in counseling, social work, and mental health require only a master’s degree for entry. This path can lead to licensure as a professional counselor or a marriage and family therapist, getting you into the field quicker.
• Education and teaching:  For teaching at a high school or community college level, a master’s degree is often enough. Educational institutions value the focused expertise a master’s program provides.
• Cost and duration:  Financial considerations are vital. Master’s programs generally take less time - typically 2 years - and psychology master’s programs present more affordable tuition options  compared to a PhD, meaning less potential student debt.
• Job opportunities:  With a growing demand for mental health professionals, a master’s degree can open various career opportunities in both government and private practice. Employers appreciate the diversity of skills that graduates bring to a wide array of jobs in the field.
• Funding:  While funding is more limited at the master’s level than for PhD programs, the general investment is often lower. This balances out, especially when considering the earlier salary earning potential due to a shorter education period.

Remember, you want to align your educational choices with your career aspirations. If your goal is to make an impact in the mental health sector without a focus on research or academia, a master’s degree could be your gateway to a rewarding professional journey.

PhD vs Master’s in Psychology: Which is Better?

When deciding between a PhD and a master’s in psychology, consider your career goals and the skills required. Each program equips you with a different set of credentials.

Master’s in psychology:

• Education : Requires less time, typically 1-2 years
• Career opportunities : Primarily suited for those seeking to enter the workforce quickly Job roles may include human resources, market research analysts, and social services managers
• Licensure : A master’s may lead to licensure for clinical practice in some states
• Tuition : Often less expensive due to the shorter duration of the program
• Salary and earnings potential : Pays less than a PhD graduate

PhD in Psychology:

• Education : A more extensive educational journey, often 4-7 years, including a dissertation
• Career opportunities : Ideal if you are aiming for a career in academia, teaching at the university level, or high-level research positions
• Licensure : Offers a pathway to becoming a licensed clinical psychologist
• Tuition : Psychology doctoral programs  can be more expensive, they may also offer more funding opportunities, such as stipends and teaching assistantships
• Salary and earnings potential : Generally higher due to the qualifications for specialized and senior roles

Industrial-organizational psychologists  and clinical psychologists  are examples of roles where a doctorate might significantly impact your earnings potential and job market competitiveness. A doctoral program prepares you for rigorous research and academic responsibilities, potentially in the field of mental health.

Deciding which is “better” between a PhD or a master’s degree heavily relies on your personal career trajectory and how you define success within the area of psychology. If your aim is to quickly join the workforce within a clinical setting or a corporate environment, a master’s could serve your needs. Should your aspirations include teaching at the university level or conducting advanced research, a PhD will offer you the necessary credentials.

Related Questions

Is a master’s in psychology the same as a phd.

Master’s programs in psychology and related fields vary in their emphasis on research. While some may include research components, others may focus more on practical applications. It’s important to research individual programs to determine their research orientation and align them with your career goals.

How long is a PhD in psychology?

Pursuing a PhD in psychology is a rigorous journey , typically lasting between 4 to 7 years. This duration includes advanced coursework, extensive research endeavors, and the completion of a dissertation. The exact timeline can vary based on factors such as program structure, research focus, and individual progress.

Is it better to have a Master’s or PhD?

Both degrees are valuable. A PhD offers deeper expertise and broader opportunities in research, academia, and specialized fields. A master’s degree provides valuable skills for careers in counseling, therapy, or organizational psychology.

When choosing between a PhD and master’s degree, it’s important to reflect on your professional aims and the kind of educational experience you prefer. While a master’s program provides foundational knowledge and professional skills, a PhD will allow you to go deeper into research methodologies and advanced scholarly study.

Share this page

The clinical program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System.

Your program will typically be fully funded for five years thanks to stipend grant support and guaranteed teaching fellowships. Tuition support is also available for a six-year program. Funding is also available for research, travel, and conferences. You will have access to the latest technology at FAS Research Computing and the Neuroimaging Facility at the Center for Brain Science.

Examples of student dissertations and theses include “Childhood Anxiety Disorders: Developmental Risk Factors and Predictors of Treatment Response,” “Clarifying the Pathway to Suicide: An Examination of Subtypes of Suicidal Behavior and Their Association with Impulsiveness,” and “A Cognitive Neuroscience of Social Groups.”

Graduates have secured positions in academia at prestigious institutions such as Princeton University, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University. Others have embarked on careers with companies such as Facebook, BetterUp, and Apple.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Psychology , and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Areas of Study

Cognition, Brain, and Behavior | Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical | Developmental | Social Psychology

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Psychology .

Academic Background

While an undergraduate concentration in psychology is not required, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is heavily quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is extremely helpful; successful applicants have often worked for professors, done research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab.

Please Note: Before making the decision to apply, the program in psychology suggests checking individual faculty/lab websites or emailing faculty directly to inquire whether they plan to consider applicants for fall 2025 admission. It’s important to note that while individual faculty members may have every intention of bringing in a new student this year, we cannot guarantee that they will all be able to do so. The total number of offers of admission to be extended by the graduate program is based on applicant preparedness and fit, availability of university advising and support resources, and target class size. Some of these factors are not able to be determined until after the applicant pool has been finalized.

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Optional for Cognition, Brain, and Behavior, Developmental, and Social Psychology. Required for Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical. GRE Subject: Optional

Theses and Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Psychological Sciences MSc

London, Bloomsbury

This is a conversion programme designed for students who have not previously taken a psychology degree or only psychology as a joint degree with other subjects. This conversion course has been tailored to provide you with a firm foundation in the core areas of psychology as defined by the British Psychological Society (BPS). These include biological, cognitive, social, developmental, social psychology, individual differences and statistics and research methods.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications closed

• Entry requirements

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor’s degree from a UK university of an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the core areas of psychology including biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, individual differences and social psychology and the links between them. You will also study quantitative and qualitative research methods and statistics and undertake your own research project under supervision of one of the wide range of psychology department staff.

Who this course is for

The programme is suitable for students from a variety of backgrounds who wish to gain the core knowledge and skills in psychology relevant to progressing to a research or applied career in psychology or to applying psychological knowledge and skills in another career or field.

What this course will give you

The Division of Psychology & Language Sciences undertakes world-leading research and teaching in mind, behaviour, and language. UCL is the top-ranked university in Europe and second in the world for psychology (Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2022). We are ranked first for research power in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience by the UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), with more than two thirds of our research in these areas rated as world-leading (4*).

Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, and cognition.

Opportunities for graduate students to work with world-renowned researchers exist in all areas of investigation, from basic processes to applied research. The division offers a supportive environment including numerous specialist seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.

The foundation of your career

Your knowledge of all areas of the subject makes you eligible for entry into any field normally open to psychology graduates, or for further graduate training (which is required for graduates wishing to work as a chartered professional psychologist in the areas of health, forensic, clinical, educational and occupational psychology).

While many UCL psychology graduates have gone on to become professional psychologists in the National Health Service, in education, the civil service and industry, it is important to bear in mind that psychology provides a very useful basis for a wide range of other careers. For further information on careers, please visit the website of the British Psychological Society .

Employability

By the end of the programme, you will have acquired practical research skills and knowledge of the core areas of discipline of psychology, allowing you to progress to research in psychology or the study of applied areas of psychology.

Graduation from the Psychological Sciences MSc provides you with the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS) which is required in the UK for many careers that you may pursue with a psychology degree, as well as for advanced professional training in psychology.

In addition to subject-based skills and knowledge, psychology graduates also acquire a number of transferable skills e.g. numeracy, IT literacy, data-management, time-management, independent research, team working, report writing, presentation skills, communication and literacy skills, and the ability to work ethically and professionally with people. These abilities are all highly valued in a range of employment fields.

There will be opportunities to network within the dedicated programme seminars, extracurricular talks such as the Experimental Psychology Seminars, CEHP seminars, and in many of the interdepartmental seminars that are arranged throughout the year.

Accreditation

The Psychological Sciences MSc is designed to confer Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS). GBC is the form of professional accreditation that is required for many careers that you may pursue with a psychology degree, as well as for advanced professional training in psychology. This is a conversion course.

Teaching and learning

Subject-specific Knowledge:

Our strategy is to ensure in-depth coverage of the key areas of psychological science and research methods.

We use a wide range of delivery methods:

• Statistics, qualitative data analysis and experimental methods are taught in practical classes.
• The core areas of psychology – biological, cognitive, developmental, social and individual differences - are taught in lectures and seminars.
• The above are also supported where appropriate by on-line learning.
• Students take responsibility for their own learning from the start and to collaborate with others.
• Students work in small groups to devise and run empirical projects.
• Seminars provide an opportunity to explore and to integrate ideas. We propose to explore ways to support and encourage this activity.
• A major goal of our programme is to develop our student’s capacity to carry out a fully-fledged research project from initial research and planning to execution and report.

Intellectual, Academic and Research Skills

• Seminars model relevant skills in presenting ideas, and provide an opportunity for students to present and discuss ideas with feedback from experienced staff and peers.
• Students write essays on psychological theories and research in the core areas of psychology, which are commented on by the member staff in terms of the quality of the argumentation. The dissertation includes an in-depth literature review.
• The empirical projects classes, together with the project, provide an opportunity to generate and test hypotheses and to integrate findings with the existing literature.

Practical and Transferrable Skills

• Skills in critically appraising literature and ideas are taught through lectures, seminars and practice in writing essays with feedback.
• Skills in planning, conduct, and analysis of experiments are taught via laboratory classes.
• Students initially work in small groups to design their own experiments under guidance. Later, they work with a single supervisor in an apprenticeship relation.
• Statistical skills are taught in weekly practical classes using relevant psychological problems that students are required to solve.
• Qualitative and computational skills are taught via seminars and practised through projects.
• Empirical projects are taught in weekly seminars, and are practised under staff guidance throughout the year.
• Library and IT resources are available to facilitate independent study.
• The student handbook and seminar leaders act as sources of guidance for effective study.
• Psychological argumentation and scientific thinking are modelled and taught throughout the programme.
• Weekly seminars facilitate the acquisition of interpersonal skills. In laboratory classes, students are required to work in small groups in order to achieve their experimental goals. Seminars also facilitate the development of effective verbal communication skills.
• Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning via the seminar and their personal tutorials and are required to learn to manage their time effectively by numerous deadlines for different kinds of work (e.g., essays, laboratory reports, seminar presentations, project proposals and reports, unseen examinations.

On this programme you will undertake a wide variety of formative and summative assessments.

Formative assessment:

• Self-assessments form part of our statistics teaching .
• Students write essays as part of their programme, and are provided with structured feedback on these. Their marks reflect the explicit criteria for each grade.
• Students also appraise their own reports and those of their peers.

Summative assessment:

• Knowledge and understanding of key topics in the core areas of psychology – biological, cognitive, developmental, social and individual differences – are assessed by essay
• Empirical work is assessed on a continuous basis by production of laboratory reports.
• Qualitative analysis is  assessed by a project.
• Statistical methods are assessed by examination.

Additionally, assessments will cover:

• Formative assessment is provided via grades on essays and projects.
• Empirical reports are commented on and assessed on a continuous basis.
• Outline formative feedback is also provided on first drafts on the final project.
• Summative assessment is provided by written reports, essays, and unseen examinations.
• Students submit 2 laboratory reports. These are graded and commented upon so that students can learn continuously.
• The dissertation receives feedback on at least one draft.
• An open-book statistics examination.
• Qualitative skills are assessed by submission of a project.
• Essays are graded according to a comprehensive marking scheme and returned promptly to students.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and practical classes. Assessment is through unseen exams, essays and empirical projects.

Each taught module is worth 15 credits (150 learning hours inclusive of lectures, assessments and independent learning), with the dissertation worth 60 credits (600 learning hours).

You will undertake eight compulsory taught modules covering topics such as empirical projects, developmental psychology, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, individual differences, statistics, qualitative data analysis and social psychology In addition to these modules, you will also undertake a dissertation.

Part-time students take the programme over two years and the structure of each year is below. There is some flexibility with how many days per week you attend, but this must be discussed with the Programme Director.

PSYC0223: Introduction to Statistics in Psychology

PSYC0155: Empirical Projects

PSYC0241: Overview of Developmental Psychology

PSYC0243: Cognitive Psychology

PSYC0010: Social Psychology

PSYC0242: Biological Psychology

PSYC0244: Individual Differences

PSYC0158: Generic Research Skills (Qualitative Analysis)

PSYC0159: Main Project

Compulsory modules

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Psychological Sciences.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

There are no additional costs for this programme.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Students are advised that we will not be making any decisions on applications until April 2023. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines. It is very likely that all places will be filled much earlier than the general UCL deadline.

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at Application fees .

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

• Why you want to study Psychological Sciences at graduate level
• Why you want to study Psychological Sciences at UCL
• What particularly attracts you to the chosen programme
• How your academic and professional background meets the demands of this rigorous programme
• Where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Got questions? Get in touch

Division of Psychology and Language Sciences

[email protected]

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

Prospective Students Graduate

• Graduate degrees
• Taught degrees
• Taught Degrees
• Applying for Graduate Taught Study at UCL
• Research degrees
• Research Degrees
• Funded Research Opportunities
• Doctoral School
• Funded Doctoral Training Programmes
• Applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL
• Teacher training
• Teacher Training
• Early Years PGCE programmes
• Primary PGCE programmes
• Secondary PGCE programmes
• Further Education PGCE programme
• How to apply
• The IOE approach
• Teacher training in the heart of London
• Why choose UCL?
• Entrepreneurship
• Inspiring facilities and resources
• Careers and employability
• Your global alumni community
• Your wellbeing
• Postgraduate Students' Association
• Your life in London
• Accommodation
• Funding your Master's

MSc by Research in Psychology

September 2024

In a nutshell

Students on the MSc by Research in Psychology will conduct independent research under the supervision of an academic supervisor within one of the psychology research groups.

Our research groups are committed to advancing the understanding of human behaviour at a theoretical level whilst translating knowledge into real-world applications and interventions to improve mental health & wellbeing, cognition, and performance. Our research adopts a rigorous approach to studying the human mind, brain, and behaviour with a focus on delivering a positive societal impact. Supported by extensive facilities our research is centered around the following main themes: Applied Cognition; Neurodiversity, Psychological Health and Wellbeing across the Life Course; and Politics, Policy, and Practice. We are also home to the Autism and Criminal Justice Hub.

Details of our research can be found here

• Join an inclusive, nurturing, and supportive community passionate about psychological research.
• Conduct psychological research that can be applied to real-world problems.
• Develop skills that prepare you for a research career in industry or academia.
• Have access to excellent facilities and laboratories.
• Develop transferable skills sought by charity, public and private sector employers.

students accepted

All about the course

The MSc by Research in Psychology will enable you to develop valuable skills in conducting research, ethical research practice, data collection, data analysis, open and reproducible science practices, oral and written communication, and scientific writing. You will have access to a wide range of training, supervisory expertise, and excellent research facilities. The research training you receive will be individually tailored to your needs and programme of research. Your supervisory team will discuss this with you once you join the programme.

Find out more about the Doctoral School .

You will be fully immersed within our thriving research community and there is the possibility to transfer to a PhD towards the end of your initial programme of study.

For further information please contact the Programme Leader Dr Robert Bendall : [email protected]

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

The MSc by Research in Psychology is awarded upon the completion of a thesis reporting original research under the guidance of an academic supervisor. You will present a thesis in an oral examination (viva voce). This oral examination is usually attended by two academic examiners (one examiner from University of Salford not involved in your research and one examiner from a different University), a viva chair and the student.

Programme Leader

Dr robert bendall.

Robert is the Programme Leader for the MSc by Research in Psychology, Co-Lead of the Applied Cognition Research Group, and Co-Chair of Salford Open Science and Reproducibility Group. Robert is a Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol, AFBPsS) who conducts research in affective science – an interdisciplinary field seeking to understand affective and emotional processes. Adopting a range of methodological approaches including behavioural experiments, neuroscientific techniques, and psychometric questionnaires, Robert’s research is currently focussed on the following main themes:

• the influence of emotion and affective stimuli on visual attention (e.g., visual search and change detection)
• the impact of individual differences including emotion regulation and personality traits on mental health and cognition (e.g., visual attention)
• the relationships between affect, emotion regulation and sleep
• cognitive restoration, nature-based interventions and ecotherapy

Robert welcomes applications from postgraduate research students (MSc by Research and PhD) relating to affective science, emotion regulation, visual attention, sleep, cognitive neuroscience, mental health, cognitive restoration, nature-based interventions and ecotherapy.

School of Health and Society

The School of Health and Society is a forward-thinking, dynamic school with a commitment to lifelong learning and real-world impact.

Our courses are informed by the latest research and we work closely with organisations from both the public and private sector to ensure our teaching is at the forefront of practice.

Psychology Research at Salford

You will have access to an extensive range of excellent research facilities. These include a range of dedicated psychological, physiological, and neuroimaging testing suites. Psychology has functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) systems, electroencephalogram (EEG) systems including an ANT Neuro 64 channel mobile EEG system, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) system with Brainsight neuronavigation software, several eye-tracking systems including mobile wearable eye trackers, and Biopac physiological recording systems. We also have an observation suite and testing space for children.

Are you a current or prospective research degree candidate in need of further guidance? Contact our dedicated research team who can help you find the right research programme for you.

Call us: +44 (0)161 295 6435 (9am-5pm) Email us:  [email protected]

What about after uni?

Our MSc by Research in Psychology degree provides excellent preparation for further academic research study (e.g., PhD). It also equips graduates for postgraduate training in a future career as a professional psychologist (e.g., clinical, forensic, organisational, or educational psychologist) or for a career in charity, public and private sectors.

In addition to subject-related knowledge, our MSc by Research in Psychology degree provides valuable transferable skills frequently sought by employers including data analysis and statistics, written and oral communication, data synthesis and critical analysis, teamwork, project management and time management.

Our MSc students have gained places on prestigious academic training programmes (e.g., Doctorate in Clinical Psychology) and academic positions at world-class universities. Graduates have also secured employment within organisations including BBC, Channel 4, Google, Home Office, HMRC, Deloitte, Barclays, NHS, and Charities Aid Foundation.

What you need to know

Applicant profile.

Applicants for the MSc by Research in Psychology come from a variety of backgrounds. Often applicants can demonstrate some previous research experience (e.g., an undergraduate dissertation) and have a basic knowledge of research methods and either qualitative or quantitative approaches to data analysis. Most applicants will have been awarded an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related discipline such as biology/biological sciences, neuroscience, nursing, social work, criminology, engineering, computer science, or human geography.

Undergraduate/postgraduate degree

A minimum of an upper second class (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent in psychology or a related discipline.

English Language Requirements

International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.5 (with no element below 5.5) is proof of this. If you need to improve your written and spoken English, you might be interested in our English Language courses.

Scholarships for international students

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our  International Scholarships .

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The A ccreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

As a postgraduate research student, you will need to pay annual tuition fees. These vary according to the programme you are studying. Both we and other organisations offer a range of scholarships and discounts to postgraduate research students.

More information about fees and funding .

Salford graduates, including those who studied a programme delivered by Robert Kennedy College, are entitled to a 20% discount on programme fees.

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Additional costs

You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on residential travel and accommodation visits.

All set? Let's apply

Still have some questions? Register for one of our  Open Days  or contact us:

By email:  [email protected] By phone:  +44 (0)161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

January 2025

September 2025

Looking for more?

Applied psychology (therapies).

This course will equip you with valuable professional insight into topics including the...

Applied Psychology (Addictions)

This course will equip you with valuable insights into topics including the...

Media Psychology

This is the only dedicated postgraduate course in the UK focusing on the relationships...

Browser does not support script.

Go to…

• Undergraduate

Postgraduate taught

• Postgraduate research
• Professional training

Our world-class, research-led learning experience attracts the very best students from around the world who enjoy unrivalled learning opportunities – supported by strong partnerships with the NHS. Each year we are joined by hundreds of students from around the world, who join a thriving community of scholars, looking to take the next step in their career.

Our students benefit from:

• Access to a hugely diverse clinical population and vast data sets.
• Outstanding career, networking and mentoring opportunities, learning from some of the world’s leading academics in the field.
• Superb range of clinical placements through our partnership with the South London & Maudsley NHS Trust, which offers the widest range of mental health services in the UK.
• World-class research and study facilities. 

Study with us

Cognitive behavioural therapies (adult iapt) pg dip.

This course provides training to equip you with the necessary skills to become an independent CBT practitioner in accordance with the BABCP guidelines.

View course

Cognitive Behavioural Therapies for Psychosis PG Dip

This course equips students with a critical understanding of psychological models of psychosis and the skills to deliver cognitive behavioural interventions.

Health Psychology MSc

This BPS-accredited course is specifically designed for graduate psychologists who wish to go on to becoming registered Health Psychologists with the HCPC .

[email protected]

Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), IoPPN, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AB

Explore postgraduate study in Psychology

Since 1950 we have carried on a distinguished programme of research, teaching and clinical…

Our research

Exploring eight research themes across the Department.

Master’s Scholarships

Find out more about Master's Scholarships at the IoPPN

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Psychology /

PhD in Psychology

• Updated on  
• Apr 28, 2023

The human brain is the most complex and mysterious object in the world which to date puts professionals into a fix. To explore and understand an individual’s behaviour, building a research career in Psychology is one of the most suitable routes. Apart from identifying the intricacies of the human brain, Psychology, as a discipline, provides an opportunity for researchers to test how people seem to think, speak or act. While the undergraduate and graduate courses in this domain deal with the scientific study of the human mind, in the context of behaviour, feeling, attitude and reaction, a research degree in psychology delves deeper into the aspects pertaining to personality and social operation. Through this blog, we will provide you with an in-depth understanding of PhD in Psychology and related details. 

This Blog Includes:

Program overview, phd in psychology: syllabus, popular study destinations, phd in psychology: top universities and fees, eligibility criteria: phd in psychology, admission process, skills required, specializations, job profiles and salary, future scope of phd in psychology.

A PhD in Psychology is a doctoral-level program that provides rigorous training in research for individuals who want to pursue a career as an academician or the ones who want to practice as a clinical psychologist . The course covers various aspects of psychology such as cognition, perception, neuroscience , behaviour, etc. This program typically runs for a period of 4 years for full-time and 7-8 years for a part-time course. While in the initial years, the students undergo theoretical training, the course comes to an end with a dissertation project and thesis. The typical curriculum of this doctorate program in Psychology includes: 

• Perception and Reality
• Graduate Research Methods
• Affective Science
• Advanced Statistical Modeling
• Developmental Psychology
• Attitudes and Social Judgement
• Foundations of Cognition
• Advances in Neuroscience

Must Read: An Ultimate Guide to PhD Courses

Because there are numerous sub-disciplines available for research, the syllabus for a PhD in psychology is quite subjective. Students select extra subjects and study areas based on their interest in the issue. However, the following table summarises the common curriculum for a PhD in psychology:

Apart from selecting a specialization, it is equally important to lay emphasis on choosing the best study-abroad destinations and universities to pursue a PhD in Psychology. A place that gives you access to world-class facilities and promotes achieving academic excellence. Listed below are the top destinations to study psychology.

• United States of America
• United Kingdom

With psychology becoming more and more popular amongst students, top universities across the world, apart from offering bachelor and master-level courses, are now offering a PhD in Psychology. Providing world-class facilities and educational infrastructure, listed below are some of the top universities offering this program: 

Also Read: Psychology Universities in Canada

For enrolling in the PhD in Psychology program, a candidate needs to meet certain criteria for eligibility. Although, the parameters may vary from one university to another, listed below are some common prerequisites: 

• An undergraduate degree in psychology or any such related course, such as BSc Psychology .
• Usually, to get admitted into PhD programs, it is necessary for the candidates to pursue masters-level courses like MSc Psychology , MSc Clinical Psychology , etc. However, this is not mandated by some universities and one can easily enrol in the PhD program just after completing a bachelor’s degree . 
• The candidates must have a good GRE score apart from English language proficiency test scores like IELTS / TOEFL / PTE . 
• SOP , LOR s, Transcripts , CV , etc form the other essential documents for admission. 

Must Read: How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD Programs?

Every institute that offers a PhD in psychology course follows a similar admissions procedure. Admission is an entrance examination, and national-level counselling is used to confirm admission. The following are some of the most crucial admission steps for a PhD in psychology:

• Prospective candidates must ensure that they meet all of the university’s qualifying requirements.
• Prospective candidates must then take the admission examination and pass it with an estimated cutoff.
• Following the results of the entrance exam, students must complete an application form with all personal and academic information.
• Participants in group discussions and personal interviews are chosen from among the students.
• Applicants who pass all of the rounds will receive their offer letters .

Candidates for a PhD in psychology must have a wide range of skills that are not only essential but also aid in their advancement. A PhD student is active in research and analysis for an extended period of time and is expected to have particular talents that will help them excel in their field. Some of the most critical abilities that a student must have are included in the table below:

Being a diverse field with several specializations, students have the option of building a career in a subject of their choice. Listed below are the various courses related to PhD in Psychology that you might want to consider: 

• PhD in Medical Psychology and Psychopathology
• PhD in Psychology (Clinical Psychology)
• PhD in Clinical and Counselling Psychology
• PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology
• Doctorate in Educational Psychology and Educational Studies
• PhD in Organizational Behaviour
• PhD in Health Psychology
• PhD in Community Psychology

Also Read: Clinical Psychology Courses

Candidates who successfully complete the PhD in Psychology course have a wide range of possibilities to choose from. They can pursue a profession in one of the most common employment fields for psychology graduates, social service or mental health . Professionals in these professions are in high demand; they may expect to earn a good living and work directly with patients suffering from mental illnesses and other disorders. Here are the top positions and their average salaries listed below:

Must Read: Psychology Scholarships

In the medical field, the scope of a PhD in psychology is fairly broad. The degree prepares students for a broad understanding of human psychology and mental health. Aside from working as a medical professional, graduates with a PhD in psychology can also work as a student counsellors in schools and universities. Another alternative is to go into research and development and work in a medical lab with a research team. Following the completion of a PhD in psychology, candidates will have a plethora of job opportunities.

Psychology has been one of the most phenomenal fields to build a career. With a platform to understand the complexity of the human brain in-depth, a PhD in Psychology graduate can work in a multitude of organizations, schools, MNCs, social services agencies, and mental healthcare centres in both the government and private sectors. Professor , Consultant, Technical Writer , Research Scientist, Therapist, etc. are some of the major work profiles where a graduate can work in. 

Ans. Yes, a PhD can be addressed as Dr. without being confused with a medical doctor.

Ans. PhDs in psychology are designed for individuals interested in careers in research, academia, or administration. If you want to be a university professor, researcher, consultant, or programme director, the degree’s emphasis on research and analysis is a good fit.

Ans. PhD in Psychology subjects includes: Biology. Development Psychology. Psychopathology. General Psychology. Statistics. Counselling. Behavioral Neuroscience.

Thus, PhD in Psychology offers many avenues for students to explore. If you are planning to pursue PhD in this or some other field but are confused about the specializations then take the assistance of Leverage Edu ’s AI-based tool which will curate a list of the most suitable universities and the course which matches your interests. 

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Choose Your Test

• Search Blogs By Category
• College Admissions
• AP and IB Exams
• GPA and Coursework

The 30 Best Psychology Master's Programs and How to Pick

General Education

Regardless of whether you majored in psychology as an undergrad or are just now realizing you have an invested interest in the field, a psychology master's program could be a great fit for you, especially if you're not sure about pursuing a doctorate.

In this guide, we look at what kinds of psychology master's programs are out there and what the point of these programs is in terms of how they help you build a career. Moreover, we'll present you with a list of the best psychology master's programs for various kinds of psychology.

What's the Point of a Master's in Psychology?

What is the overall purpose of entering a psychology master's program and earning an advanced degree in psychology?

For one, many people choose to get a master's degree in psychology to learn more about a specific subfield or type of psychology. Whereas a bachelor's degree program in psych mostly provides you with a broad overview of the field, a master's degree program lets you concentrate on the particular area of psychology that interests you most.

The area you're interested in will likely vary depending on what kind of job you're hoping to get after you earn your degree (and also whether you want to continue on to get a doctorate ).

Here are some examples of the types of psychology you could study in a graduate program:

• Clinical psychology
• Industrial-organizational psychology
• Child and adolescent development
• Counseling psychology
• Educational psychology
• Experimental psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Social psychology
• Health psychology
• Behavioral psychology
• General psychology

Secondly, a master's degree in psychology can be useful because many jobs in the field require or strongly prefer people with a master's degree. In short, a master's degree has the potential to advance your career.

Most counseling and therapy jobs, for example, require a master's degree in psychology, therapy, counseling, social work, or a related field. Therefore, by getting a master's degree, you're not only deepening your knowledge of a particular area of psych but also expanding your job prospects.

The chart below shows a variety of psychology-related jobs for master's degree holders and what kinds of salaries and job growth rates you can expect for them. All jobs listed require at least a bachelor's degree (typically in psychology), with some requiring a master's degree in psychology or a related field.

For each job, we give you its 2021 median annual salary and employment growth rate for 2020-2030. Jobs are listed in order of highest salary to lowest. All data is from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

According to the BLS, the current average employment growth rate is 10%, so any job with a percentage higher than this means that it's growing faster than average.

In general, an advanced degree will increase your earning potential. Even for jobs that only require a bachelor's degree, a master's degree could help you stand apart from other applicants and give you a better chance of nabbing a higher salary for that position.

But what if you want to become an actual psychologist?

Can You Become a Psychologist With Just a Master's Degree?

You might have noticed that the chart above doesn't include the job "psychologist" in it. This isn't a mistake—the reality is that in order to become a practicing psychologist, you will need to earn either a PhD in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). In other words, a master's degree, though impressive, simply won't cut it if your dream is to work full-time as a licensed psychologist.

I should clarify here that a psychologist differs from a therapist. Psychologists hold a doctorate and often work with psychiatrists to diagnose and treat disorders; they can also conduct research or offer therapy. By contrast, therapists can hold either a master's degree or doctorate and solely offer therapy services to support and guide patients. The word "therapist" is a broader term that encompasses not only psychologists who offer therapy services, but also counselors, life coaches, and social workers.

According to the BLS, the majority of research, clinical, and counseling psychologists are required to have a doctoral degree . That said, a master's degree could be sufficient for jobs as a school psychologist or an industrial-organizational psychologist.

In addition to a PhD or PsyD, you'll usually need to have a psychologist license. This applies to most jobs that include the title "psychologist." (Note that although therapists must be licensed as well, their license requirements differ from those required to become a psychologist.)

To get licensed as a psychologist, you'll typically need to have done the following:

• Earned a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD
• Passed the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology
• Completed an internship
• Accumulated one to two years of supervised professional experience

Exact licensure requirements vary by state, so be sure to check with your own state's policies and procedures to see what you must do to become a licensed psychologist.

Though not typically required by states, certain jobs might require psychologists to obtain board certification in a particular area of psychology, too.

Here are some examples of jobs you could get with a doctorate in psychology (ordered from highest median salary to lowest):

Best Psychology Master's Programs: Notes on Rankings

Before we take a look at our list of the best psychology master's programs, it's important that we are aware of the current state of these types of programs.

Because a doctorate is required to become a psychologist—the overarching goal of many people studying psychology— there aren't many terminal psychology master's programs in the US.

Indeed, most psychologists earn a master's in psychology on the way to their doctorate (students normally get an MA/MS in Psychology along the way to the PhD or PsyD after a couple of years of study). This means that it can be somewhat difficult to find psychology master's degree programs that are not part of doctoral programs.

Therefore, we've looked mostly at master's degree programs in fields related to psychology, such as social work, counseling, and therapy. These degrees range from a Master of Social Work (MSW), to an MA, to other specialized types of professional master's degrees.

For each category of master's degree, we'll be introducing you to our top four to five choices (unranked), which we have determined based primarily on the following criteria:

• Prestige of both the program and overall school
• Ranking of the program by online lists and websites, such as US News
• Array of concentrations, classes, and online options offered
• Whether the program has an internship and/or practicum component
• Quality and reputation of faculty

Now then, it's time to look at our picks for the best psychology master's programs!

The Best Psychology Master's Programs, by Category

Since there aren't that many terminal psychology master's programs (programs that don't require or expect you to continue on to get a doctoral degree), this list will mostly consist of programs that offer master's degrees in fields strongly tied to psychology.

Here are the seven categories we'll be looking at (feel free to click the link to jump straight to that category):

Social Work

Marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling, school counseling/educational psychology, rehabilitation counseling, clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology.

The field of social work is largely connected to psychology, especially counseling and therapy, in that it's all about improving the lives of people and people within certain communities. Typically, social work master's degree programs lead to a Master of Social Work (MSW).

University of Michigan —Ann Arbor, MI

Ranked #1 by US News and many other top social work programs lists, U-M's MSW program offers many areas of specialization, including aging in families and society, children and youth in families, and community and social systems.

Many students attend U-M's MSW program to jump-start their careers as school social workers, juvenile justice workers, case managers, community organizers, or geriatric specialists.

The school offers 550 fieldwork locations so students can gain real-life experience and training. U-M also has made available several scholarships, such as the Geriatric Scholarship Program and the Child Welfare Scholarship.

Washington University in St. Louis —St. Louis, MO

Another top-ranked social work program based at the Brown School, WUSTL's MSW offers the opportunity to perform groundbreaking research with renowned faculty to create sustainable impact.

Nine concentrations are available, including mental health; American Indian and Alaska Native; children, youth, and families; health; and violence and injury prevention. WUSTL has connections with more than 500 organizations around the world for students to complete their practicum.

University of Chicago —Chicago, IL

If you'd prefer a more flexible approach to social work, UChicago's social work master's degree program might be a good fit for you. Equivalent to an MSW, the MA in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration provides students with a broader foundation that combines research, theory, practical experience, and policy development.

Two concentrations are available: Clinical and Social Administration. In addition, students can take advantage of a handful of study abroad opportunities in India, China, and Hong Kong. (Note: due to COVID-19 restrictions, the study abroad programs in China and Hong Kong are currently on hold.) 

Columbia University —New York, NY

Home to the first social work school in the US, Columbia has a highly ranked MSW program . This rigorous program combines theory and practice to help students become leading professionals in the field of social work.

Four method concentrations are available across seven fields of practice, which are as follows:

• Contemporary Social Issues
• Family, Youth, and Children's Services
• Health, Mental Health, and Disabilities
• International Social Welfare and Services to Immigrants and Refugees
• School-Based and School-Linked Services
• World of Work

Columbia's MSW is also available entirely online (for specific fields of practice) —perfect for those who aren't based in New York or who'd prefer the flexibility of an online program.

University of California, Berkeley —Berkeley, CA

Established in 1944, UC Berkeley's Master of Social Welfare (MSW) program is known for producing top-quality social work professionals who are able to work in multiple practice areas and assume a variety of leadership roles.

There are three specializations students can choose from:

• Strengthening Children, Youth, and Families
• Strengthening Organizations and Communities
• Advancing Health and Well-being across the Adult Lifespan

Although UC Berkeley doesn't offer an online version of its MSW program, students have the option of earning their MSW degree concurrently with either a Master of Public Health or a Master of Public Policy. Working professionals or other students who can’t attend a full-time degree program can pursue the FlexMSW option as well. FlexMSW Advanced program allows students to complete the degree in one year; the FlexMSW Extended program allows students to extend the degree timeline over the course of three years.

These next master's programs specialize in marriage and family therapy, and offer degrees and practical experiences so you can become a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in the state where you earn your degree.

Note that although many of these programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), MFT programs are not required to have this accreditation.

Northwestern University —Evanston, IL

The MS in Marriage and Family Therapy program at Northwestern is a joint initiative between The Graduate School and the Family Institute at Northwestern—which boasts an impressive 40-year history of researching and teaching marriage and family therapy.

This COAMFTE-accredited program uses a 21st-century approach called Integrative Systemic Therapy. Students study topics such as intimate relations, treatment models, and methods of systems therapy; do an intensive clinical internship; and conduct at least 500 hours of therapy.

Brigham Young University —Provo, UT

Students can earn an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in BYU's COAMFTE-accredited program, which aims to prepare students to pass the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards .

The aim of the program is to help students develop theoretical, research, and clinical competence, as well as the ability to understand cultural diversity. Students have the option to pursue either a research track (mainly for those intending to go on to doctoral study) or a clinical track.

The program is quite competitive, with a mere 20% acceptance rate.

University of San Diego —San Diego, CA

USD offers a highly regarded MA in Marital and Family Therapy program that is accredited by both COAMFTE and the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California .

This two-year program has a unique "biopsychosocial, systems approach" that focuses on how relationships influence our day-to-day lives. Class topics include human diversity, couples and sex therapy, ethical and legal issues in family therapy, and family violence.

Students enroll in a practicum for three semesters wherein they accumulate 500 hours of direct supervised contact with clients by working for a community agency.

Pepperdine University —Malibu, CA

At Pepperdine, students can get an MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy .

This program, which offers more than 130 clinical practicum sites, prepares students to become a licensed marriage and family therapist or a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California.

Classes teach students about human sexuality and intimacy, mental health systems, multicultural counseling, and preparing for the practicum.

The following master's programs in psychology focus on providing counseling services to people with psychiatric disabilities and/or problems with substance abuse and addiction (as opposed to rehabilitation counseling or career counseling, for example).

Many mental health counseling master's programs are accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) and/or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

New York University —New York, NY

NYU, a consistently top-ranked private university, offers an MPCAC-accredited MA in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness program . In this program, students must complete a 600-hour internship and a 100-hour practicum over a 12-week period.

This program is available both on-campus and online , the latter of which lets you choose from among three start dates (January, June, or September). The online version also gives students the chance to visit NYU for three to four days of networking and hands-on training.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill —Chapel Hill, NC

UNC's Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling master's program is a unique, highly regarded program that combines two types of counseling and is also accredited by CACREP.

This program specifically aims to prepare students to become Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRCs) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in North Carolina. In 2021, 100% passed the CRC exam on their first attempt, and the job placement rate of CRMH graduates who were actively seeking employment after graduation is 98% for the past five years.

Students can choose to concentrate on developmental disabilities, psychiatric disabilities, or both.

At the famed Columbia Teachers College, students can earn an MEd in Mental Health Counseling . Strengths of the program include its focus on cultural diversity and social justice, its commitment to experiential training, and its emphasis on providing students with adequate opportunities to conduct research.

Many graduates of the program go on to work in educational and health settings such as schools, colleges, hospitals, and clinics.

University of Wisconsin–Madison —Madison, WI

UW Madison's highly ranked MS in Counseling program is available through the Department of Counseling Psychology. Mandatory core courses include Abnormal Behavior and Psychopathology, Social and Cultural Foundations, Counseling Theories, and Crisis and Trauma Counseling. Students must complete a year-long practicum and also have the option to do a master's thesis.

These next counseling psychology master's programs are all about helping students in school settings. School counselors assist students with personal, social, and career development; they also offer guidance to students with academic problems.

Most school counselors work in schools (primary and secondary), though some instead work at community centers or youth centers. Like the mental health counseling programs above, many school counseling programs have been accredited by CACREP.

Vanderbilt University —Nashville, TN

Ranked #3 by US News in educational psychology programs, Vanderbilt offers a fantastic school counseling master's program: the MEd in Human Development Counseling with an emphasis in School Counseling (the other emphasis available is Clinical Mental Health Counseling).

Some of the program's biggest benefits are its small classes and the option to complete the school counseling track entirely online . Both tracks are accredited by CACREP.

What's more, over the past decade, 100% of school counseling students secured employment within four months of graduation.

University of Texas at Austin —Austin, TX

One of the nation's most renowned public universities, UT offers top-ranked MEd in Counselor Education and MA in School Psychology programs (the latter of which is geared toward those who ultimately plan to get a doctorate).

Two tracks are available for the MEd program: School Counseling (counseling students in K-12), and Higher Education Counseling & Student Affairs (which focuses on roles within colleges and universities). This program option emphasizes the importance of diversity training and lets students supplement their studies so they can eventually become an LPC.

Meanwhile, the highly competitive MA program prepares you to become a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology in Texas.

University of Maryland —College Park, MD

UMD's MEd in School Counseling is a high-quality psychology master's program that is currently ranked #7 by US News on its list of the best educational psychology schools.

Here, students learn how to work with diverse student populations, with special emphasis on the importance of social justice and inclusivity. Students must also complete a 100-hour practicum in addition to two 300-hour internships in urban public school systems. Courses cover research methods, school counseling, and special education, among other topics.

Ohio State University —Columbus, OH

Ranked #4 for school counseling programs and #12 for educational psych programs , OSU offers two reputable psychology master's programs: an MA in Educational Psychology and an MA in Counselor Education .

In the former, students can study alongside doctoral students and take advantage of the program's partnership with the Learning Technologies program to learn more about the intersection between psychology and technology.

The latter, which is CACREP-accredited, trains students to become professional counselors and to work at places such as public schools, community agencies, and health-care facilities.

Rehabilitation counseling is a type of counseling in which you work with people who have physical, emotional, mental, and/or developmental disabilities to help them achieve and maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle and career.

Many of the following master's programs in rehabilitation counseling are accredited by CACREP.

Michigan State University —East Lansing, MI

MSU's MA in Rehabilitation Counseling program is currently ranked #1 by US News .

In this CACREP-accredited program, students study disability management, ethical practices, and the social and psychological side of disabilities. Additionally, students must complete a practicum and internship. Evening classes are available to accommodate a range of schedules.

Upon completion of this program, graduates may sit for the national CRC exam and are eligible to apply for Limited Licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Michigan.

Tied for the #1 spot with MSU for best rehabilitation counseling graduate programs, UW Madison offers a top-ranked MS in Rehabilitation Counseling program through the school's Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education.

In this program, which has been accredited by CACREP, students learn how to improve the quality of life for people with psychiatric and physical disabilities, alcohol/substance abuse problems, and learning disabilities.

Notably, UW Stout (another branch of the University of Wisconsin system) offers an online MS in Rehabilitation Counseling program that was ranked #4 in the country by US News . This part-time online master's program lasts three years and is geared toward those with at least two years of related work experience.

George Washington University —Washington, DC

GW's MA in Rehabilitation Counseling program is available both on-campus and online and is currently ranked #3 by US News on its list of best rehabilitation counseling programs.

This CACREP-accredited program consists of intensive coursework as well as an internship and practicum. One of the program's unique traits is the breadth of counseling theories and practices it covers, from multicultural counseling to the medical aspects of disabilities.

Furthermore, GW has a special mentorship program wherein current master's students are paired with graduates.

University of Alabama —Tuscaloosa, AL

UA offers a renowned, CACREP-accredited MA in Rehabilitation Counseling . In this wholly online program, students get to watch live class lectures and take classes in career development, ethics, research methods, life-span development, and psychopathology. Additionally, both an internship and practicum are required.

Several scholarships are available through UA's College of Continuing Studies.

University of Massachusetts Boston —Boston, MA

Through UMassOnline, the renowned distance-learning platform created by the UMass schools, including UMass Boston, students can earn an MS in Rehabilitation Counseling , which is ranked #15 by US News .

This CACREP-accredited, 60-credit program begins in the summertime and uses the cohort model wherein all students take the same program of study. Although all the classes are delivered online, students are required to be on-campus for two weeks in July to complete two mandatory clinical courses during their first summer of study.

Clinical psychology focuses on the science behind mental illness and disability. Although clinical psychology master's programs are usually far harder to find than doctoral programs, there are some terminal ones available.

Be aware that these master's programs do not lead to licensure as a psychologist (though they could prepare you for licensure as a therapist or counselor), as you'll generally need a doctorate to become a practicing clinical psychologist.

Note: For a list of the best clinical psychology doctoral programs, check out this one by US News .

Northwestern is known for its doctoral clinical psychology program, for which it's currently ranked #27 by US News , but it also offers a renowned master's program in clinical psychology .

This program is designed mainly for those who aren't decided about getting a doctorate in clinical psychology and who want to learn more about clinical psychology through an academic lens. As such, the program does not lead to licensure for clinical practice as a psychologist, nor does it include the clinical training required for clinical practice.

Classwork is mostly the same as that completed by the clinical psychology PhD students. Master's students must also participate in a Research Lab Experience for at least 10 hours a week and finish a capstone project under the guidance of a research mentor.

Ivy League member Columbia offers an esteemed MA in Psychology in Education program , which is geared toward students interested in clinical psychology and mental health occupations. It’s also designed to give students the academic preparation needed to apply to doctoral programs in psychology, though the master’s program is not a funnel into a specific PhD program.

Although the program doesn't prepare students to become a professionally licensed psychologist, it does serve those who wish to work in the field of mental health and psychology more broadly.

Students in the program are mentored by clinical psychology PhD students and can choose from among eleven concentrations:

• Child & Family
• Clinical Psychology & Technology
• Community Psychology & Integrated Health Services
• Forensic Psychology
• Global Mental Health & Trauma
• Neuropsychology
• Psychotherapy 
• Research Methods
• Sexuality, Women & Gender
• Spirituality & Mind/Body Practices

Ranked #33 by US News for its doctoral clinical psychology program, UMD also offers a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Clinical Psychological Science . This program primarily targets those who are interested in clinical psychology but aren't sure where to begin or don't know whether a doctorate is the right path.

The MPS emphasizes the study of empirical scientific research in clinical psychology. Classes, which can be taken in the evenings, include Basic Foundations of Clinical Interventions, Research Methods in Clinical Psychology, and Child Psychopathology.

Boston University —Boston, MA

Tied for the #27 spot on US News with UMD for its doctoral program in clinical psychology, BU has an MA in Psychology program wherein you can specialize in clinical psychology specifically.

This master's program is rigorous, lasting only one year, and offers courses on a multitude of topics, such as behavioral medicine, social oppression, child therapy, and social anxiety. Students have the opportunity to work directly with a faculty member on a Directed Study project as well.

Industrial-organizational psychology—also known as I/O psychology—is an applied discipline in the field of psychology that involves using psychological principles to improve workplace settings, encourage efficiency, and foster teamwork.

While most I/O programs are doctoral ones, there's still a number of master's programs available around the country, mostly at state and tech schools.

Note: For a list of the best I/O psychology doctoral programs, check out the rankings by US News .

At NYU, students can enroll in the MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program to learn about critical topics, such as work motivation, personnel selection, training in organizations, etc.

Based in NYU's eminent Department of Psychology, the I/O psych master's program offers small class sizes and provides students with a foundation in research, practice, and theory so they can pursue jobs in client interaction and solution development for corporate environments.

Students can choose from among six specializations:

• Management consulting
• Leading and managing change
• Executive coaching
• Conflict and negotiation
• Quality of work life
• Diversity and culture

Middle Tennessee State University —Murfreesboro, TN

Although MTSU isn't as well known as some of the other colleges on this list, it's home to the #4 I/O psych master's program , as ranked in 2018 by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP). This makes MTSU an excellent choice for I/O psychology students.

This program emphasizes the real-world application of skills and knowledge through a required internship. Students must also complete several applied projects with local businesses.

Many graduates have gone on to work for large companies and corporations, including Walmart, Microsoft, Coca-Cola, and Target.

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis —Indianapolis, IN

IUPUI's MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program is well liked among students and a solid choice for I/O studies, especially if you're more interested in the organizational aspect.

Cohorts are small—around three students each year —ensuring that all master's students get tons of individualized attention and guidance. Students learn about the core content areas of I/O psychology and are required to write a thesis and conduct research with the assistance of faculty members. The program also offers the option to take part in a summer internship.

Several scholarships are available to MS students at IUPUI.

Florida Institute of Technology —Melbourne, FL

The MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology at Florida Tech is ranked #10 by SIOP and is famed for the strength of its faculty and mentoring.

The program utilizes a team-based research approach in small-sized classes, allowing students to conduct critical research with faculty members and their peers. MS students also have the option to participate in a 300-hour practicum in order to gain real-world experience.

Moreover, the program offers a concentration in international I/O psychology for students who hope to work in international business settings.

Recap: The Best Psychology Master's Programs

When it comes to psychology master's programs, at a first glance, it might not seem that there are that many programs available to those not seeking a doctorate.

But the truth is that there are a ton of quality, prestigious psychology master's programs out there —you just have to know what type of psychology you want to study and what kind of career you're hoping to get out of your degree.

Although you can't become a licensed, practicing psychologist with just a master's degree, you can enter related fields and work as a licensed counselor, therapist, or social worker.

To recap, here are the best psychology master's programs for each category above:

• University of Michigan
• UC Berkeley
• Northwestern
• University of San Diego
• UNC Chapel Hill
• University of Alabama
• UMass Boston
• Middle Tennessee State
• Florida Tech

We hope this list will be useful as you search for the best psychology master's program for you!

What's Next?

Are you planning to take the AP Psych exam? Get tips and review what you need to know with our ultimate AP Psych study guide . For study materials, check out our picks for the best AP Psych prep books and get access to free official and unofficial practice tests .

Not sure if a master's degree is the right move for you? Then take a look at our in-depth guide on what grad school is and how to determine whether you should go .

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Can I do a PhD after masters? How long does it take to get a PhD / Doctorate

A common question that many graduate students have is whether they can pursue a PhD after completing their master’s degree.

The answer is yes, it is possible to continue your academic career by obtaining a doctoral degree in your field of study.

There are several factors that need to be considered before embarking on this path.

This article will provide an overview of the key factors students should consider when deciding whether to pursue a PhD after completing their master’s degree.

Should I get my PhD after my masters? What about industry?

Deciding whether to pursue a PhD immediately after a master’s degree or enter the workforce first depends on personal goals, interests, and circumstances.

A PhD typically requires around five years of self-directed effort, similar to starting a business. If passionate about research, it might be best to begin right away.

Working in industry before pursuing a PhD can lead to habits that may not benefit academia and can take longer to adjust back to a scholarly environment.

Long-term relationships are essential in academia, and aggressive industry tactics might not be well-received.

Starting a PhD earlier allows for more time to produce research and establish a successful career, particularly for those considering a long-term academic path.

PhD pursuit offers flexibility in research topics and projects, enabling exploration across various subjects and building connections with professionals from different fields. This leads to unique opportunities and experiences that may not be available when working for a single company.

Considering factors like personal goals and readiness for the workload and demands of a PhD program is crucial.

Weigh the potential benefits of advancing education against the time, cost, and personal demands of a doctoral program. If a PhD aligns with one’s career aspirations and personal goals, it may be a worthwhile pursuit.

However, if the investment required outweighs the potential benefits, it might not be the best choice.

It’s always possible to try a PhD program for a year or two and then make a more informed decision based on individual experiences.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD or Doctorate? Time to complete everything

Leading up to getting a PhD there are many qualifications you need to get. Here is the amount of time a typical US Doctorate can take to achieve including all of the previous qualifications. It can take up to 13 years to complete

The length of time to complete a PhD varies depending on several factors.

On average, in the US it takes about six years, with three years dedicated to coursework and another three years for the dissertation project.

Factors that can influence the duration include:

• prerequisites of the program,
• program format,
• the student’s motivation,
• prior knowledge,
• Personal circumstances, such as being an international student, can influence the time it takes to complete the doctoral program.
• Funding and scholarship stipend can significantly affect the years of study and the time it takes to earn a doctorate degree. 
• field of study,
• dissertation topic,
• Support of the graduate advisor can be a crucial factor in minimizing the time it takes to complete a doctorate degree.

The range can be as short as three years or as long as seven to eight years , depending on the individual and the circumstances.

Do you need a master’s for a PhD? A shorter career path that doesn’t take so long.

In certain fields, such as clinical psychology, it is possible to pursue a PhD without obtaining a master’s degree first.

To do so, one must demonstrate a strong academic and research background, as well as a commitment to the field.

Here are the most important attributes if you are thinking about going straight into a PhD without a master’s:

• Strong academic and research background: Ensure that you have excelled in your coursework and maintained a high GPA.
• Undergraduate research experience: Engage in research projects during your undergraduate studies, preferably with a thesis component.
• Clinical exposure (if applicable): Gain relevant experience in the field to showcase your practical knowledge and commitment.
• Leadership experience: Participate in activities that demonstrate your ability to lead and work effectively within a team, as this can be advantageous in the years of study required to earn a doctorate degree.
• Interpersonal skills: Develop strong communication and collaboration skills, which are essential for success in a PhD program.
• Clear determination: Express your dedication to pursuing a PhD directly from your undergraduate studies, highlighting your commitment to the field and how quickly you aim to earn a doctorate.
• Assess your certainty: Be sure that you are confident in your goals and prepared to invest the necessary effort to be competitive without a master’s degree.

By satisfying these requirements, you can better assess your eligibility to apply for a PhD without a master’s degree and potentially save time and money in the process.

Earn a Doctorate without a Masters – How Does It Work? 

Obtaining a PhD without a master’s degree is not a common path, but it is possible under certain circumstances.

Typically, a PhD candidate has an undergraduate degree with high grades, a master’s degree, and relevant research skills.

However, there are exceptions where individuals have successfully transitioned from their undergraduate studies directly to a PhD program.

One such scenario involves having a strong rapport with a potential PhD supervisor, perhaps from your undergraduate program, which can significantly reduce the time it takes to earn a doctorate.

This relationship can help compensate for the lack of a master’s degree, but it’s not a guarantee.

Another example is being an exceptional student with a first-class undergraduate degree and a dissertation closely aligned with the advertised PhD project.

Demonstrating an outstanding attitude and performance during your undergraduate project may give you an edge over other applicants.

In applied PhDs, practical experience can also be beneficial, particularly if it includes valuable contacts in the field.

For instance, if your PhD is related to professional sports and you have numerous connections within the industry, it may facilitate recruitment and collaboration, enhancing your chances of acceptance.

However, as with the other examples, this is not a sure-fire way to secure a position.

While securing a PhD without a master’s degree is challenging, it is not impossible.

The best approach is to pursue a master’s degree, as it will better prepare you for a PhD program. – Dr Andy Stapleton

Nonetheless, if you are determined to bypass the master’s route, perseverance and strategic networking can potentially lead to success.

What after Masters: MPhil or Doctorate Degree?

After completing a Master’s degree, you may be considering whether to pursue an MPhil or a PhD.

Here are the differences between the two:

A PhD, being the highest academic title awarded for independent research, offers a broader scope and deeper engagement with complex topics than an MA or MPhil.

It can be thought of as an apprenticeship in planning and conducting your research.

The program duration ranges from three to seven years, depending on whether you choose to study full-time or part-time.

Entry is competitive, as candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of academic success.

PhD students attend research workshops, writing classes, and work in groups to explore each other’s studies.

They have opportunities to discuss their research across the university, in graduate school, and other classes, which can be particularly beneficial for an international student. A PhD involves a multi-year project based on independent research, with support from supervisors and training that contributes to the chosen field of study.

It’s essential to have a clear idea of the topic you want to explore in-depth and the methods you plan to employ before applying for a PhD program.

Doing a PhD can be both intellectually and emotionally demanding.

However, working in a department with dedicated and talented staff, excellent supervisors, ongoing training, and support from fellow students can make the experience enjoyable and rewarding.

It is crucial to choose the right supervisor and have a good working relationship with them, as this can significantly impact your PhD journey and the time it takes to complete it.

Wrapping up PhD programs after a masters – how long does it take to complete?

Pursuing a PhD after a master’s degree is a common path for those looking to advance in academia or research-intensive careers.

While obtaining a PhD requires a significant commitment of time and resources, it can lead to prestigious positions or high-paying jobs. It is crucial to consider personal goals, interests, and the job prospects in the field before enrolling in a doctoral program.

For those considering a PhD without a master’s degree, it is essential to demonstrate a strong academic and research background and commit to the field.

The decision between an MPhil and a PhD depends on the desired scope, depth, and career impact of the research. Ultimately, individuals should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the time it takes, cost, and personal demands of a doctoral program before making a decision.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.

We are here to help you navigate Academia as painlessly as possible. We are supported by our readers and by visiting you are helping us earn a small amount through ads and affiliate revenue - Thank you!

2024 © Academia Insider

• Schools & departments

Psychological Research MSc

Awards: MSc

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

Programme description

This programme provides an opportunity for intensive advanced training in psychological research while giving you flexibility to select courses in the areas of psychology and cognitive neuroscience of most interest to you.

In addition to advanced training in general academic skills and statistical modelling, you will be trained in a variety of specific methodologies, typically including:

• brain imaging
• neurodisruption
• eyetracking
• clinical case analysis
• psychometric modelling
• discourse analysis

Key research areas

Building on the research methods training, you will take topical courses in one or more of the core research areas of our department: social psychology, cognitive neuropsychology, individual differences, psychology of language, and human development.

Your MSc culminates in a research dissertation in a core research area: an original, publication-quality piece of research, undertaken in close collaboration with researchers in the relevant group.

Psychology is rated 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).

What will I learn?

You will take courses on the theoretical and methodological aspects of psychological science and conduct an original research dissertation in your area of interest.

You will receive thorough training in advanced academic skills and research methods within psychology, including a comprehensive coverage of statistical modelling and research design using the R statistical language.

Is this MSc for me?

This programme teaches you core research methods and specialist techniques, and you can flexibly choose optional courses to customise your learning in areas you are most passionate about.

It provides excellent preparation for further psychological research, whether you choose to pursue this in a professional setting or as part of a PhD programme. So whether you want to continue in academic research or move into professional training in psychology, this programme is for you.

Reputation, relevance and employability

The University of Edinburgh has a long tradition of research expertise in psychological research. Our large Psychology department is home to academics leading research in the field.

You will benefit from the breadth and strength of the interdisciplinary academic community at Edinburgh, having the opportunity to select option courses and attend research seminars across different disciplines.

Our students’ research projects are often published in academic or professional journals.

Our programme has an excellent reputation amongst employers and educators. Many of our graduates have gone onto PhD training and academic careers, or advanced professional training in psychology.

We maintain close contacts with professional organisations such as the British Psychological Society (BPS).

• Find out more about our community

The School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences is home to a large, supportive and active student community, hosting events and activities you can join in with throughout the year. As a postgraduate student, you will have access to a range of research resources and projects, state of the art facilities, research, seminars and reading groups.

Programme structure

This programme comprises two semesters of taught core and optional courses followed by a dissertation.

The taught courses and their assessments take place between September and December (Semester 1) and January and April (Semester 2). Planning for the dissertation will take place before April, and it is carried out between April and August.

Core courses

The core courses cover advanced research skills (how to plan for, conduct, publish and communicate research), statistics and qualitative research methods, and provide a grounding in computer programming using the R language.

Semester 1 core courses

• Psychological Research Skills - General advanced research methodology
• Univariate Statistics and Methodology using R - Introduction to R and statistical models

Semester 2 core courses

• Multivariate Statistics and Methodology using R – Advanced statistical modelling
• Qualitative Methodologies in Psychological Research Methods

Optional courses

The optional course can be selected to tailor the programme to your interests. These are normally selected from the core research areas of Psychology, but may also be selected from associated areas such as linguistics or informatics. Examples of optional courses are:

• Brain Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience
• Clinical Neuropsychology
• Psychology of Language
• Neuroscience of Language
• Applied Psychometrics
• Any other course open to MSc students subject to approval from the programme director

Dissertation

The dissertation involves conducting an empirical research project in close collaboration with an expert supervisor, sometimes also working with fellow MSc students.

You will produce a written report, similar to an academic journal article. Indeed, some dissertations are published as journal articles.

You should liaise with potential supervisors and determine your choice of topic in the months before April. It is useful to start thinking about dissertation topics and supervisors early if possible. The empirical work and writing takes place between April and August and it is due in August.

The dissertation can be based on data collected by the student or existing datasets (e.g., from large cohort studies, biobanks or other projects).

How will I learn?

Most courses are taught through lectures, and some include seminars/tutorials and practical sessions. The number of contact hours and the teaching format will depend to some extent on the option courses chosen.

After classes finish in April, you will spend all your time working independently on coursework, exam revision and on your dissertation. When you carry out your supervised dissertation research, you will receive guidance from your supervisor through one-to-one meetings, comments on written work and email communication.

Learning outcomes

This programme provides you with a range of knowledge and skills to prepare you for a variety of career paths. On successful completion of this programme, you will have gained:

• an understanding of advanced topics, methodologies and issues in the areas of psychological science that are of most interest to you
• an understanding of the basic and advanced principles of research design and application
• competency in applying a range of methods and research tools, including statistical models and programming
• skills in research management, including managing data and conducting and disseminating research in ways consistent with both professional practice and the normal principles of research ethics
• transferable skills in written and verbal communication, group and teamwork, computing, programming and numeracy, time and project management
• the ability to work as an independent researcher and as part of a team

Career opportunities

The programme is primarily designed for students who aspire to pursue a research-oriented career in psychological science. However, students interested in careers outside research will obtain a broad range of highly desirable transferable skills applicable to a wide range of modern jobs, such as:

• research design
• data science
• data management and processing
• critical evaluation and synthesis of scientific literature
• statistical modelling and interpretation
• synthesis and communication of complex ideas
• Careers Service

Our award-winning Careers Service plays an essential part in your wider student experience at the University, providing:

• tailored advice
• individual guidance and personal assistance
• internships and networking opportunities (with employers from local organisations to top multinationals)
• access to the experience of our worldwide alumni network

We invest in your future beyond the end of your degree. Studying at the University of Edinburgh will lay the foundations for your future success, whatever shape that takes.

Important application information

Your application and personal statement allow us to make sure that you and your chosen MSc are good matches for each other, and that you will have a productive and successful year at Edinburgh.

We strongly recommend you apply as early as possible. You should avoid applying to more than one degree. Applicants who can demonstrate their understanding and commitment to a specific programme are preferred. If you plan to apply to more than one programme, you should discuss your choices with us before you submit your application.

Personal statements

When applying you should include a personal statement detailing your academic abilities and your reasons for applying for the programme

The personal statement helps us decide whether you are right for the MSc programme you have selected, but just as importantly, it helps us decide whether the MSc programme is right for you.

Your personal statement should include:

• What makes this particular MSc programme interesting for you?
• What are the most important things you want to gain from the MSc programme?
• The key courses you have taken and that are relevant for this specific programme.
• Your experience with collecting empirical data (e.g., preparing and carrying out experiments, surveys or interviews).
• Your experience with statistical analysis and programming or qualitative research methods.
• Your experience with writing empirical research reports (including any that have been published).
• Any other information which you feel will help us ensure that you are a good match to your intended MSc programme.

A good personal statement can make a big difference to the admissions process as it may be the only opportunity to explain why you are an ideal candidate for the programme.

You will be asked to add contact details for your referees. We will email them with information on how to upload their reference directly to your online application. Alternatively, they can email their comments to:

• [email protected]

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

• How to apply

Psychology at Edinburgh

Entry requirements.

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in psychology or a related discipline.

We may also consider candidates with a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a non-psychology subject if they can demonstrate evidence of their aptitude for research or research methods.

Students from China

This degree is Band C.

• Postgraduate entry requirements for students from China

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Tuition fees, scholarships and funding.

There are a number of highly competitive scholarships and funding options available to MSc students.

Deadlines for funding applications vary for each funding source - please make sure to check the specific deadlines for the funding opportunities you wish to apply for and make sure that you submit your application in good time.

• Drever Trust Scholarship

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• PPLS Postgraduate Office
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 5002
• Contact: [email protected]
• Programme Director, Prof Martin Corley
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 6682
• Contact: [email protected]
• Dugald Stewart Building
• 3 Charles Street
• Central Campus
• School: Philosophy, Psychology & Language Sciences
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September

Awards: MSc (12 mth FT, 24 mth PT)

Application deadlines

This MSc programme operates a gathered field approach to applications. This means that all complete applications which meet our minimum entry requirements will be held until the nearest deadline at which point the Admissions Panel will meet to consider all applications received at this time.

Gathered field deadlines for this programme are as follows:

Applications submitted after the deadline date will unfortunately not be considered.

Please read through the ‘Important application information’ section on this page before applying.

Recommended pages

• Undergraduate open days
• Postgraduate open days
• Accommodation
• Information for teachers
• Maps and directions
• Sport and fitness

MSc Philosophy, Mental Health and Psychology

Annual tuition fee for 2024 entry: UK: £10,530 full-time International: £24,120 full-time More detail .

• Visit an Open Day
• Request a prospectus
• Course details
• Entry Requirements
• Teaching and assessment
• Employability

How can we think about mental health? Are psychological properties reducible to neural properties? What can both philosophy and psychology bring to our understanding of mental health?

On this unique interdisciplinary programme you will explore philosophical and psychological approaches to the mind and mental health.

You will have the opportunity to learn from experts from across the Department of Philosophy, and the School of Psychology drawing on the world-leading research environments in research centres such as the Institute for Mental Health and the Centre for Human Brain Health. You will pursue original research drawing from a wide range of potential topics supervised by experts in these areas. You will take modules from across all three disciplines, but have the choice on which area you would like to specialise in.

This programme is aimed at graduates with a background in philosophy, psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, theology or sociology. Graduates from a range of other backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply and will be considered on a case by case basis. It can also be used as a route into PhD research.

By studying this course you will develop many skills that are useful in both academic and non-academic settings:

• Critical thinking skills: You will develop your ability to analyse problems and assess opinions from different viewpoints. This is highly useful for problem-solving and decision-making.
• Communication skills:  You will gain experience in presenting and explaining abstract concepts, scientific ideas and complex arguments in an accessible manner. You will also be good at persuading others by presenting logical and coherent arguments.
• Writing skills: You will develop your skills in communicating effectively in writing. This includes being able to write clearly and concisely without compromising rigour.
• Research skills : You will be able to identify problems and collect necessary information to resolve them in a timely manner.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We are offering over 400 awards of £2,000 to support the brightest and best applicants wishing to undertake Masters study at the University during 2023-24. The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK Time) on Sunday 2 July 2023.

Find out more and apply now.

Scholarships for 2024 entry

The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.

Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship webpages prior to submitting an application.

Explore our scholarships

Virtual Chat: Postgraduate opportunities in Philosophy - 28 April 2020 11:00-12:00

Take part in our online chat where Dr Nick Jones will be answering your questions about postgraduate study.

Find out more and register

Postgraduate scholarships available

The College of Arts and Law is offering a range of scholarships for our postgraduate taught and research programmes to ensure that the very best talent is nurtured and supported.

Learn more about our scholarships

At Birmingham, Postgraduate Taught and Postgraduate Research students also have the opportunity to learn graduate academic languages free of charge, to support your studies.

• Graduate School Language Skills

Why study this course?

• Taught by experts – The University of Birmingham has established world leading research centres at the intersection of Philosophy, Mental Health and Psychology, such as the Institute of Mental Health and the Centre for Human Brain Health , providing you with the opportunity to study alongside some of the top interdisciplinary researchers thinking about mental health across these fields. You will have the opportunity to pursue original research supported by these fantastic interdisciplinary research environments, and by the highly ranked Department of Philosophy and School of Psychology . The Department of Philosophy was ranked 1st in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021 based on Grade Point Average (Times Higher Education), and the School of Psychology was ranked in the top 100 in the world (QS World University Rankings, 2024).
• Interdisciplinary study – this unique course provides co-teaching from across philosophy, mental health and psychology, meaning that you will take modules from across all three disciplines and gain an understanding of how they interact with each other.
• Be a part of an active postgraduate community – you will join a lively and stimulating communities in the Department of Philosophy, School of Psychology and the Institute for Mental Health. You will have the opportunity to contribute to on-going research activities, including research seminars and events such as our speaker series, various workshops, reading groups and conferences throughout the year.
• Choose from a wide variety of modules - you will have the opportunity to build the course you study around your interests with a range of optional modules available from across Philosophy, Mental Health and Psychology.
• Access to a wide range of services – as a postgraduate student you will have access to services such as the  Academic Writing Advisory Service  and the  Bank of Assessed Work  which will aid your transition from undergraduate to postgraduate level, or back into academia after a time away. 

* Please note the MSc Philosophy, Psychology and Mental Health is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.

The postgraduate experience

The College of Arts and Law offers excellent support to its postgraduates, from libraries and research spaces, to careers support and funding opportunities. Learn more about your postgraduate experience .

You will take the Philosophy of Cognitive Science as a core module. You will then choose to take either 'Research Methods and Skills in Psychology' or 'Research Methods in Mental Health', and either 'Philosophy and Mental Health' or 'Philosophy and Ethics of Mental Health and Wellbeing’. This will ensure you acquire a thorough grounding in the three areas that form the core of the programme.

You will then choose three optional modules and have a choice of independent research focussing on either Philosophy, Psychology or Mental Health.

Core modules

You will study three core modules: 

Philosophy of Cognitive Science 

This module covers a range of advanced topics in philosophy of cognitive science. Main foci include the Computational Theory of Mind, perception, and modularity, issues that have been central in the formation and development of cognitive science since its inception in the 1950s. Assessment : One or two written assignments totalling 4,000 words

Research Methods and Skills in Psychology

This module will cover how to systematically approach and conduct research. It will also require acquisition of a key practical skill in an area chosen by the student in consultation with their supervisor. Topics for the course will include methods and analysis techniques; understanding and gaining exposure to research and reporting it effectively in writing; training in IT and administrative skills useful for research activities (e.g., file management); and key issues in psychology and neuroscience research.

Assessment:  Written assignment, online practical and a practical report.

Research Methods in Mental Health

This module will provide an advanced understanding of the main types of research methodology in mental health. The module will focus on theory as well as practice so that students acquire the requisite skills to apply this knowledge and are able to demonstrate the application of research skills. Examples of research methodology that will be covered include:

• Quantitative skills development in: epidemiology and statistics, clinical trials, evidence synthesis and meta-analysis, neurosciences
• Qualitative skills development in: evaluation methods, ethnography, thematic analysis, realist methods

Assessment : Open book exam and 2,000-word essay

Philosophy and Mental Health

This module provides an overview of contemporary debates in philosophy, psychiatry and Mental Health. In each seminar a new issue will be investigated, but there will be three interrelated threads throughout the module. One is about the nature of psychiatry. The second is about the sense in which psychiatric disorders are disorders of the self. The third is about how we should respond to people with psychiatric disorders, considered from a wide range of perspectives, including interpersonal, clinical, ethical, legal and public health policy. These themes will be addressed by reference to different aspects of psychiatry (classification, diagnosis, aetiology, research, treatment, etc.) and different psychiatric disorders (addiction, anorexia, dementia, dissociation, schizophrenia, personality disorders, psychopathy, etc.) and different disciplinary frameworks. The module will also have a practical element involving structured, outcome-focussed deliberation about difficult cases highlighting these threads and their interrelations. Assessment : One or two written assignments totalling 4,000 words 

Philosophy and Ethics of Mental Health and Well-being

This module will serve as a research-led introduction into important conceptual issues in mental health.  Key topics will include the nature of mental disorder, wellbeing and mental health, the ethics of early intervention and prevention, stigma and justice in mental health, ethics of psychiatric research and clinical practice, and important areas of philosophical psychopathology.  The module will also include an introduction to phenomenological approaches to mental health.

  Assessment : 2000-word essay and 2000-word reflective case study

Optional modules

You will also choose three optional modules. Options typically available include:

• Philosophy of Mind
• Epistemology
• Philosophy of Language
• Metaphysics
• Fantastic Beasts and how to Understand Them: Topics in the philosophy of biology
• Adolescence: mind and brain
• Higher cognitive functions in children, adults and nonhuman animals
• Translational cognitive neuroscience
• The neurobiology of mental illness
• Cognitive neuroscience methods and applications
• Development and neurodiversity

Dissertation or research project

In addition to your taught modules, you will conduct a piece of independent research with the support of a supervisor. There are three options available for you to choose from:

• Independent research in Philosophy. This option involves working 1-1 with a supervisor in the Department of Philosophy, and write a 15,000 word dissertation.
• Research dissertation in Mental Health. Students who take this option will undertake a research dissertation with group and individual components working on a project linked to the Institute for Mental Health.
• Supervised research project in Psychology. This will involve group-based research, leading to a 6,000-word research thesis. See some of the  recent projects  undertaken by students on the course.

Please note that the optional module information listed on the website for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2024 entry are as follows:

• UK: £10,530 full-time; £5,265 part-time
• International: £24,120 full-time

The above fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Eligibility for UK or international fees can be verified with Admissions. Learn more about fees for international students .

Paying your fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding .

Are you an international applicant?

Find out more about the deposit >> .

How To Apply

Please review our Entry Requirements before making your application.

Application deadlines

The deadline for International students (requiring a VISA) to apply is 26 July 2024. The deadline for UK students is 30 August 2024.

Making your application

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate taught programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

The programme allows for multi-disciplinary entry. You need an upper second-class Honours degree, or equivalent, preferably in Philosophy, Theology, Sociology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Linguistics and other cognate disciplines. 

If your undergraduate degree is in another subject, you are still very welcome to apply. We consider every application on its merits and we are happy to consider applicants with diverse academic backgrounds. Your level of academic achievement, letters of reference, and personal statement will all have strong influence on our decision. We may also require you to submit a writing sample and attend an interview.

We ask you to submit two academic references as part of your application, but if you have been out of academia for some time we will also accept a professional reference in addition to one academic reference.

International/EU students

Academic requirements: We accept a range of qualifications from different countries - use our handy guide below to see what qualifications we accept from your country.

English language requirements: standard language requirements apply for this course - IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band. If you are made an offer of a place to study and you do not meet the language requirement, you have the option to enrol on our English for Academic Purposes Presessional Course - if you successfully complete the course, you will be able to fulfil the language requirement without retaking a language qualification.

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

Learn more about international entry requirements

International Requirements

Holders of a Licence, Diplome, Diplome d'Etudes Superieures, Diplome d'Ingenieur or a Diplome d'Architecte from a recognised university in Algeria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of one of these qualifications will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 for 2:1 equivalency or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

A Bachelors (Honours) degree from an accredited Australian higher education institution may be considered for admission to a Masters degree.   Applicants with 3 year Bachelors with distinction from a recognised university, can be considered for admission to a Masters degree.

Holders of a Diplom, a Diplomstudium/Magister or a three-year Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, or a high-scoring Fachhochschuldiplom (FH) from a recognised Austrian Fachhochschule, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

 Holders of a bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Bahrain will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of three years duration, followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration from a recognised university in Bangladesh will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least four years duration may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Bangladesh.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6-3.1/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma za Zavarsheno Visshe Obrazovanie (‘Diploma of Completed Higher Education’), a pre-2001 Masters degree or a post-2001 Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 5 out of 6, mnogo dobur/’very good’ for 2:1 equivalence; or 4 out of 6, dobur/’good’ for 2:2 equivalence; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma Visoko Obrazovanje (Advanced Diploma of Education) or Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, for 2:1 equivalence or 3.0 out of 5.0, dobar ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Holders of a good four-year government-accredited Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education college with a minimum overall GPA of 3 out of 4 for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.75 out of 4 for 2:2 equivalency; or a good four-year Bachelors degree (Ptychio) from a recognised University, with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 for 2:2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Bakalár, or a good pre-2002 Magistr, from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), for 2:1 equivalence, or 2.5, C, dobre ‘good’ (post-2004) or 3, dobre ‘pass’ (pre-2004) for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Bachelors degree/Candidatus Philosophiae, Professionbachelor or Eksamensbevis from a recognised Danish university, with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or 4-7 out of 12 (or 7 out of 13) for 2:2 equivalence depending on the awarding institution will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Egypt will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants holding a Bachelors degree with alternative grading systems, will normally be expected to have achieved a 75% (Very Good) for 2:1 equivalency or 65% (Good) for 2:2 equivalency. For applicants with a grading system different to those mentioned here, please contact [email protected] for advice on what the requirements will be for you.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university or Applied Higher Education Institution with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B for 2:1 equivalency or 3/5 or C for 2:2 equivalency, or a good Rakenduskõrgharidusõppe Diplom (Professional Higher Education Diploma), will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Ammattikorkeakoulututkinto (AMK) (new system), an Yrkeshögskoleexamen (YHS) (new system), a Kandidaatti / Kandidat (new system), an Oikeustieteen Notaari or a Rättsnotarie, a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 3-4/5 for 2:1 equivalence or 1-2/3 or 2.5-3/5 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good three-year Licence, License Professionnelle, Diplôme d'Ingénieur/Architecte Diplômé d'État, Diplôme from an Ecole Superieure de Commerce / Gestion / Politique, or Diplome d'Etat Maitrise of three years duration or a Maîtrise from a recognised French university or Grande École will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, bien, for 2:1 equivalency, or 11 out of 20, assez bien, for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a good three-year Bachelor degree, a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university, or a good Fachhochschuldiplom from a Fachhochschule (university of applied sciences), with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students from Germany who have completed three years of the Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 10 from the first six semesters of study within the Juristische Universitätsprüfung programme would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes.  Students from Germany who have completed the five year Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 6.5 would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) from a recognised Greek university (AEI) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, or a good four-year Ptychio from a recognised Technical Higher Education institution (TEI) with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés (Bachelors degree) or Egyetemi Oklevel (university diploma) from a recognised Hungarian university, or a Foiskola Oklevel (college diploma) from a recognised college of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 3.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a Bachelors degree of three or four years in duration from a recognised university in India will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 55% - 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or 50% - 55% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Either: A four-year Bachelors degree (first class or very good upper second class)

Or: A three-year Bachelors degree (first class) from recognised institutions in India.

For MSc programmes, the Business School will consider holders of three-year degree programmes (first class or very good upper second class) from recognised institutions in India.

For entry to LLM programmes, Birmingham is happy to accept applications from 3 or 5 year LLB holders from India from prestigious institutions.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iran with a minimum of 14/20 or 70% will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate taught programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iraq will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Israel will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 80% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Diploma di Laurea, Licenza di Accademia di Belle Arti, Diploma di Mediatore Linguistico or Diploma Accademico di Primo Livello from a recognised Italian university with a minimum overall grade of 100 out of 110 for 2:1 equivalence, or 92 out of 110 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Jordan will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Kuwait will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good pre-2000 Magistrs or post-2000 Bakalaurs from a recognised university, or a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Lebanon will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 16/20 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency, or 14/20 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good Bakalauras (post 2001), Profesinis Bakalauras (post 2001) or pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Bachelors degree or Diplôme d'Ingénieur Industriel from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20 for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education Institution with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons) for UK 2:1 equivalency, or 2:2 (Hons) for UK 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise from a recognised university in Morocco will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Nepal will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration plus a Masters degree may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Nepal.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 or 65%-79% average or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 60%-65% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Dutch university, or Bachelors degree from a recognised Hogeschool (University of Professional Education), or a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university, with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good three-six-year Bachelorgrad, Candidatus Magisterii, Sivilingeniø (siv. Ing. - Engineering), "Siviløkonom" (siv. Øk. - Economics) degree from a recognised Norwegian education institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, or a GPA of C/Good or 2.6-3.2 for a 2.2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Oman will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years in duration from a recognised university in Pakistan will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration, or holders of a two year Bachelors degree and a two year Masters degree in the same subject, may also be considered for postgraduate study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 2.8-3.0/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

A two-year degree followed by a three-year LLB will count as a full Bachelors degree.

All qualifications must be from recognised institutions. For further details on recognised institutions, please refer to Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good post-2001 Licencjat / Inzynier (Bachelors degree), or a pre-2001 Magister, from a recognised Polish university, with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus ‘better than good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 4 out of 5, dobry 'good' for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, bom com distinção ‘good with distinction’, for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20, bom ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Qatar will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Diplomă de Licenţă, Diplomă de Inginer, Diplomă de Urbanist Diplomat, Diplomă de Arhitect, Diplomă de Farmacist or Diplomã de Doctor-Medic Arhitect (Bachelors degree) from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Диплом Бакалавра (Bakalavr) degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 from recognised universities in Russia may be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/MPhil degrees. 

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the Saudi Arabia will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 2, C, Dobrý ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7.0 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Título de Licenciado / Título Universitario Oficial de Graduado (Grado) /Título de Ingeniero / Título de Arquitecto from a recognised Spanish university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Special or Professional Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Sri Lanka will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or B+ for 2:1 equivalency, or 55-59% or a CGPA 3.0/4.0 or B for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd) for 2:1 equivalency, or G (godkänd) for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good " Baccalauréat universitaire/ Diplom / Diplôme; Lizentiat / Licence; Staatsdiplom / Diplôme d'Etat" degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Syria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70%, or ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalency or 60%, or ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level. Holders of Bachelors degree from prestigious institutions (see list below) will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.7 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants with grades slightly below these requirements may also be considered for an offer if they have a relevant Bachelors degree, good scores in relevant modules, or relevant work experience.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from all other institutions will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency.

Prestigious institutions: Assumption University Chiang Mai University Chulalongkorn University Kasetsart University Khon Kaen University King Mongkut University of Technology - Thonburi (known as KMUTT or KMUT) Mahidol University Prince of Songla University Srinakharinwirot University Thammasat University

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Caribbean and West Indies university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. 

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the UAE will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good four-year Bachelors degree/ Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or a GPA of 3.5/5.0, 3.0/4, 6/12 or 70% for 2:2 equivalence, depending on the awarding institution, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

As well as the taught modules you take on this programme, you are encouraged to participate in our Postgraduate Seminar and in the regular meetings of PhilSoc, so you'll be able to gain insight from a range of academics and peers from across the department. 

Course delivery

You will take six taught modules and undertake an independent research project in either Philosophy, Mental Health or Psychology. Modules run for one term, and each module involves a two-hour weekly seminar which you are required to attend. 

Studying full-time

You will spread your module work over the first two teaching terms, ideally studying three modules in each term. However, this depends on your module choices and it is also possible to study two in one term and four in another. Most of the work for your research project takes place in the summer. 

Studying part-time

If you do a part-time programme, you spread your modules over four teaching terms (autumn and spring of year one, and autumn and spring of year two). You will work on your research project in year two; again, most of this work takes place in the summer.

We have three teaching terms per year, the autumn, spring and summer terms. Term dates can be found on our website .

As a full-time student, you will typically take three modules in each of the first two terms, followed by your dissertation. If you are a part-time student, you will typically take three modules across each year, followed by your dissertation.

Each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, homework and assignment preparation.

Support with academic writing

As a postgraduate student in the College of Arts and Law, you have access to the Academic Writing Advisory Service (AWAS) which aims to help your transition from undergraduate to taught Masters level, or back into academia after time away. The service offers guidance on writing assignments and dissertations for your MA/MSc programme with individual support from an academic writing advisor via tutorials, email and the provision of online materials.

International students can access support for English Language development and skills through the Birmingham International Academy (BIA) .

Preparing you for your future career

Modern business is increasingly sensitive to issues connected with the mental well-being of their employees. Furthermore, think tanks, policy writers, and others working in the public sector are increasingly required to be knowledgeable about the mind. This course will provide you with the tools to critically engage with these topics and prepare you for a potential career in these areas.

This course will also be very good preparation for postgraduate research, with a particular emphasis on interdisciplinary work straddling empirical, clinical and philosophical approaches to the mind which is a strong and growing academic area.

Birmingham's Philosophy postgraduates develop a range of skills that are highly desirable in the job market including articulacy, precise analytical thought, and the ability to analyse and construct sound arguments.

Due to the transferable nature of these skills, Philosophy postgraduates traditionally enter a wide range of employment areas, from teaching and lecturing to social work. Based on the most recent 3 years of data, (Graduate Outcomes 2017/18 to 2019/20), 87% of leavers from Philosophy postgraduate programmes were in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.

Support from the Careers Network

The University's  Careers Network  provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated   careers and employability team  who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

• Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
• Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
• Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

What’s more, you will be able to access our full range of careers support for up to 2 years after graduation.

• Online chat events
• Ask our students

• Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees
• Top Universities & Colleges
• Abroad Exams
• Top Courses
• Read College Reviews
• Admission Alerts 2024
• Education Loan
• Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More)
• Ask a Question
• College Predictor
• Test Series
• Practice Questions
• Course Finder
• Scholarship
• All Courses
• B.Sc (Nursing)

MSc Psychology: Eligibility, Colleges, Syllabus, IGNOU, Jobs 2024

Bhaskar Nandi

Master of Science [M.Sc] (Psychology) - Latest Notifications

• 29 August, 2024 : IIT JAM 2025 Application Form Out Soon, Check Details Here.
• 23 August, 2024 : BITSAT 2024 Iteration 7 Allotment Out, Check Direct Link Here.

MSc Psychology is a 2 year postgraduate course that focuses on the practical application of research methods related to human behaviour. It provides learning about different perspectives of human psychology through theoretical and research-based activities. The course has considerable field knowledge and is based on actual cases. 

The basic eligibility for pursuing admission to the MSc Psychology program, candidates must hold a bachelor degree in any Psychology courses from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. Also, students can pursue MSc Psychology Distance Education in colleges like IGNOU, IMTS Institute, Jain University, etc. The average fee is INR 15,000 to 16,000. 

However, students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers can also apply for MSc Psychology courses. Admission to the course in top colleges is offered after cracking the entrances, followed by a round of personal interviews. Some of the top MSc Psychology entrances are CUET PG, IPU CET , OUCET , BITSAT, BHU PET, etc.

See Also: MSc Admission Process   

• MSc Psychology Key Highlights

MSc Psychology Admission Process

2.1   Eligibility Criteria

2.2   Entrance Exams

2.3   How to get Admission to a good MSc Psychology College?

MSc Psychology Colleges

Msc psychology syllabus.

4.1   Important Books

Which is Better: MSc Psychology or MA Psychology?

Msc psychology jobs, study options after msc psychology.

• MSc Psychology FAQs

MSc Psychology Course Details

In this field, students develop their theories and test them by performing research. A psychologist usually studies both normal and abnormal functioning and treats individuals having mental and emotional disorders.

After the candidates are done registering or applying for the entrances by uploading documents and payment of fees, admission to the program is done based on the candidate's performance in the entrance test or on a Merit basis. 

Depending on the fulfillment of the minimum eligibility criteria, candidates will be called for a Written Test (Research Aptitude Test – RAT) which will be conducted by the institute authority.

Students who have cleared JRF, GATE and other relevant examinations are also expected to attend the written examination and Personal Interview. 

Based on the candidate's performance in the written examination and interview, the admission authority will release the list of shortlisted candidates for all the courses.

MSc Psychology Eligibility

Following are some of the MSc Psychology eligibility criteria to be fulfilled:

• The minimum MSc Psychology eligibility is that the candidate must hold a BA or B.Sc Psychology degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. 
• Students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers.

Top MSc Psychology Entrance Exams

Some of the most common entrance tests conducted for admission to MSc Psychology program are given below:

How to Get Admission to a Good MSc Psychology College?

Following are some of the points to be kept in mind while taking admission to a good MSc Psychology college:

• It is advisable for the students to score more than 55% in graduation to get a good college for studying MSc Psychology.

Since most colleges offer admission to MSc Psychology courses on the basis of the candidate's performance in the written test, it is very important to get a good score in the test conducted by the admission authority.

Below are some of the points to keep in mind for cracking MSc Psychology entrances:

• It is very important for candidates to know the detailed syllabus of the entrance test that one is planning to appear for. So, just go through the detailed syllabus and cover the same.
• You can prepare well for the entrance test if you follow a time table and prepare thoroughly.
• Try to give a large number of time-based tests as this will help you in preparing for the exam day.
• Try to solve at least 10-12 timed Mock Tests after completing your preparation.
• Give time for revision as well, and don’t leave anything for the last day of the exam. Be calm and confident, and don’t think anything negative before entering the exam center

It is also equally important to be mentally and physically prepared for further rounds after the entrance exam i.e. counselling and interview.

Keep a track of all the important dates of the written exam so that you can register for the exam well in time.

Important Links

Some of the top colleges/ universities offering MSc Psychology course are provided in the table given below:

The detailed semester-wise MSc Psychology syllabus is provided in the table given below:

MSc Psychology Important Books

The following table shows MSc Psychology books list that helps students to perform well in the semester end examinations:

The basic difference between MSc Psychology and MA Psychology p rograms are provided in the table below for the aspirants to understand the differences between these two courses:

Source: University websites and Payscale

Students holding an MSc in Psychology degree can work in consulting with top corporate executives and they can also work as a medical counsellor in hospitals.

Social Service and Mental Health Career are two of the most popular career options for Psychology graduates. 

Owing to a MSc Psychology scope and huge demand for professionals in these fields, they can expect to earn a handsome amount of income and can also get the opportunity to work directly with patients who are struggling with mental illness and other ailments. 

As most of the best jobs in industry are reserved for Psychologists with a Doctorate in Psychology, so students must think about doing a Phd in Psychology after completion of this program.

Some of the top MSc Psychology jobs, along with their corresponding salaries are provided in the table given below:

The salary trends of some of the top posts that MSc Psychology postgraduates can opt for are given below:

Source: Payscale

On completion of the MSc Psychology program, candidates can opt for a wide range of professions.

• With the MSc Psychology degree, students will be able to make their career in the field of Psychology as a Psychologist, Urban Development Officer, Staff Recruiter etc.. MSc Psychology scope is rising at a fast pace and will continue to do so in future also. 
• There are a large number of areas both in the private as well as in the public sector where a MSc Psychology graduate can work.  

Students can choose any of the careers in accordance to their skills and interests. Some of the topmost career choices in terms of higher studies after completion of MSc Psychology program are provided below:

• MPhil in Psychology: M.Phil. in Psychology is a 2 years full time graduate course which is divided into 4 semesters. This course helps students to understand the mind and behaviour of individuals and boasts the knowledge gained in the MSc Psychology. This degree further helps to make a good career in the fields of academics.
• Ph.D in Psychology: After pursuing MSc Psychology course, it is advisable that students should pursue Ph.D. in Psychology course. It is always recommended to go for further studies after pursuing this program as otherwise, it won’t be that beneficial.

One can go for higher studies or can also opt for a decent job. It all depends on you whether you want to do a job after completing MSc in Psychology or you wish to study further.

MSc Psychology: FAQs

Some of the most frequently asked questions pertaining to MSc Psychology program are given below:

Ques. What is the full form of MSc Psychology?

Ans . The full form of MSc Psychology is Master of Science in Psychology.

Ques. I have done B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology. Can I pursue an MSc Psychology program?

Ans. This depends on the college/ university in which you are applying as different colleges have different eligibility criteria.

Ques. What is the MSc PsychologyScope ?

Ans . After pursuing an MSc Psychology program, you can opt for jobs as a Psychologist, Urban Planning Officer etc. or you can also go for further studies such as Ph.D. in Psychology.

Ques. What is the eligibility criterion to pursue an MSc Psychology program in India?

Ans . In order to be eligible to apply for MSc must hold a BA or B.Sc. Psychology degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. However, students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers.

Ques. Where can I pursue an MSc Psychology program in India?

Ans . Some of the top universities and institutes offering MSc in Psychology program in India are as Allahabad University, Amity University of Behavioural Health and Applied Sciences, Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, Banaras Hindu University, Banasthali University, Bhavnagar University, Government College for Women etc.

Ques. Is MSc Psychology a tough course?

Ans . MSc in Psychology is a very exciting course and will help a student in understanding human beings better.

Ques. Is a Master’s degree in Psychology worth doing?

Ans . Psychology is a field that will definitely grow in future. With time we are going to need more psychological treatments to lead a stress-free life. This course has good pay, good scope for research and a continuously growing market.

Ques. What are the subjects in the MSc Psychology course?

Ans . MSc Psychology covers subjects such as Cognitive Psychology, Statistics in Behavioural Science, Research Methods in Psychology, NeuroPsychology, Psychology of Social Behaviour Theory, Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory, Applications of Psychology, Self and Positive Theory, Personality Theory, Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory.

Ques. Can I do regular MSc Psychology after distance B.Sc. Psychology?

Ans . Yes, you are eligible to seek admission to MSc Psychology program on a regular basis even after doing your B.Sc. through distance learning.

Most Popular Tags

38 Reviews found

Stunned Stani

Loan/ scholarship provisions.

The tuition fee was apt and can be paid in installments so there was no hindrance, Complete cost for me was 22000 for the two year msc and the flat in which I was staying was just near to college so it costed me around ?1,10,000/- per year for college staying lodging without any issue.

Course Curriculum Overview

I chose this course because wanted to master and gain the vast treasure of knowledge for my favourite subject i.e, psychology. Teaching modes includes interaction with people's and that's the prime aspect of the psychology.

BHU is overall a good place

The tution fee is very less. The university is a public university and funded by the central government hence the chances of fee hike or increase is very less expect and may happen once in a decade. The yearly course fee is 4000+1000. The additional 1000 is for swayam exam. And hostel fee can cost you from 6000 year to 20000 depending on the hostel you are being allotted. The mess charges are separately billed.

Campus Life

University celebrate Foundation Day on Basant Panchami which is the best and biggest celebration in the campus. The university conduct various youth fest at the different faculty levels and then the Spandan is the youth fest where students who are selected from various facilities take part. There are various clubs in the university which aim to conduct various events.

The heart of sagar

This course is my dream course and I suggest people who want to pursue their career as a psychologist. There are so many opportunities and chances are available for the graduates in India and abroad. The curriculum is really good and it's getting better day by day. The frequency and timing of examinations will not difficult the students.

Campus events are really exciting and enjoyable.They conduct many program like onam celebration, awareness program, election, holi,Intercollege competition. Then sports competition are also conducting and the college gives very importance to these extra curricular activities.The teacher's are also very cooperative in these programs.

Only to get degree

Books are available but very old books They follow old patters nd no new syllabus is provided One whatsup group is there for all students where any important news is shared during exams or internals but group is created in 2nd year 1st year there is no group

1.they offer both online and offline courses 2. But we dnt have any proper guidance 3.lectures dnt repeat the classes if we miss They dont evn send us recorded classes 4.they give lots of Assginments and we need to complet in very short time span

Presidency College chennai

As Presidency College is of the time of English rule, the infrastructure is also kind of English design. Along with this, the classrooms are good... It's a very great college to complete your college life. Placements: For the first time, TCS recruited candidates from Presidency by giving training programme. Presidency College is an art, commerce, and science college in the city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu, India. On 16 October 1840, this school was established as the Madras Preparatory School before being repurposed as a high school, and then a graduate college. Presidency College is affiliated with Bengaluru Central University. This college offers UG, PG, and doctoral-level programmes in a variety of academic disciplines such as Arts, Commerce, Computer Application, Journalism and Management Studies. Presidency College admission in bachelor's degree courses for different categories will be based strictly on merit. Admission for MBA and MCA courses is done through online mode

According to the NIRF report, the median package offered to Engineering (BTech and MTech) students during Presidency University Bangalore placements 2022 stood at INR 4 LPA and INR 4.16 LPA. An increasing trend was observed in the median package of Engineering students over the past three years from 2020 to 2022.22 Jan 2024 They do not have a dress code as such, but we expect students to dress decently. At Presidency college, there have been no complaints about the dress code, say authorities.20 Jun 2 The highest salary package is 8 LPA and the lowest salary package offered is 5 LPA. Top roles for the course are college lecturer and school teacher. They have high priorities in the scientific field. Infrastructure: Facilities are less in this college Yes Kapadia gogo running jumping hight jump long jump many sports my collage.

Me and My Master experience

As i did the course in distance i had to pay it in semester wise and thepackage fees shouldbe paid seperately to the University... Not relevant scholarship was availed at that time when i pursued, also not aware of campus employment too

I was in a distance education so was uableto witness the infrastucture and the campus life.. But i heard about the same through my friend and social network.. I heard that there are many clubs and studentportal around the University..

Acharya review

The annual fee is 90000 approximately and total of 2.15lakh and they provide that quality in the college. The national scholarship scheme also available. the exams fees has to be paid seperately. There is store in the campus and wil get the everything from there.

The reason I choose psychology because I am more interested in it. Here in acharya, they provide good quality of teaching. The college come under banglore city University. The exams are easy. The teaching also very interesting

For my course that is masters in psychology( msc psychology) will cost around 45000 per sem and approximately 2.15 lakh for the whole course to complete. Exam fees should be paid separately. There are government scholarships we can apply.

I love psychology. The faculties the way they teach and curriculum especially will help us to understand the applications of psychology . It will also help in real world. The college is affiliated under Bengaluru city university.

Acharya college review

Psychology seemed interesting to me because i believe that by studying psychology we can go into mental health field and can help people those who are suffering from mental illnesses. The curriculum is very applicable and it will help us to put into effect in real world situations.

The college fee as of 2023 admission is 35000 per sem for me and registration fee is 20000. For new batch it is 45000. College provides direct admission and merit admission also. Exam fees we have to pay separately

Why should I chose Acharya

The course I choose is Psychology and I have interest in psychology. I believe that the curriculum is pretty good for my studies. The college isn't that much strict and we feel very comfortable while we are here. The teaching method is same as most of the colleges but some of the facilities have there own unique style of teaching.

The college is very calm and greenish. There are plenty of space in college to get some refreshment from the stress but we feel stress free while we are at college. There is a good stadium and many courts as well many food courts in the campus. We can enjoy with friends in the campus.

Banglore university expected vs reality

I just started my new msc career... After analysing these threee months its better but not having that much vibe or entertainment that i expected. I Think after some more months it will change. Genuinely msc have not that entertainment in college

By analysing Usually thr amount of msc psychology course on my institution is way more better because it contains 2 lakh for two year. But there is some extra unwanted courses they compelling with fees like all other university.

The beloved life in MSU!

they have lots of festivel to celebrate they do their best to entertain the student. festivels will be celebrated by the department or whole university level. we can visit any tiome to the library, staffs where so frendly an the books where huge. for the class room the provide projecter, ac also. the sports day will be condected "mano day" everyyear.

the course curriculum which we have is very appriciatable.After choosing psychology there is a big change in my personality which is helped me to become better person. Beyond the exams we learned more through the practical , intership and project. Overall a nice and satisfactory curriculam.

Life at UNIVRAJ

The course was pocket friendly as the yearly expense was 11000. There were no additional cost that we had to bear during our academic tenure. There were no on capus jobs offered. There are finianciala assistance offered by the university to support the students

We had annual fest and other cultural events happening on campus every now and then. The department used to conduct a lot of conferences, seminars and worshop to upskill the students. For our respective department we mostly had really good books and journals to refer to by various Indian and foreign authors.

Overall good and satisfying experience

The annual fest/campus day conducts usually in August/September month of the year. Other many cultural, and departmental-level tests are conducted from time to time. The campus library is available with all the needed books and the departmental library is available in the department with almost all subject-related books. The possibility for socialising and extracurricular activities on campus is high

I chose the course as the continuation of my undergraduate degree. The faculty-student ratio is 1:3.All faculties have Ph.D.The teaching method is mainly involving students teaching the lessons by giving seminars. Exams are almost on correct time and it's not that difficult to pass the exams, basic knowledge of the subject will be enough

You can be an efficient Psychology professional with the guidance of SDM Psychology department.

Campus life here has art & cultural programs(SDM Kalavaibhava, yakshagana, drama, music, dance), extracurricular activities (NCC-NAVY, NSS, Rovers& Rangers), E- resource, Community radio, Multimedia studio, Natural Resources study centre, Sports, Arboretum, Language lab and booth, and Student Clubs etc. There are two libraries as well as e-resources which students can access easily. Advanced classrooms and AV rooms have wifi. Students have respected clubs and groups where they can mingle.

The course is for 2 years. The department has efficient professors who have PhD in psychology to guide students. Students will get immense practical exposure in the field. There will be 4 semesters, 2 internal exams and one Semester exam will be in each semester. So many seminars, workshops, field visits and presentations will be there in each semester.

Amity University Mumbai, truly a hub for Psychology.

I have heard a lot about Amity University, Mumbai, and how it's a hub for the subject of psychology. So I went around and looked for opinions and reviews and found out that they have an excellent infrastructure and course curriculum including many industrial and field visits. We have a total number of 16 faculties including visiting ones and about 105 students in our Masters 1st semester. Most of the senior faculties have completed their Ph.D. and others have completed either their M.Phill or have completed their masters and have experience teaching and working in different organizations and NGOs. The teachers are very friendly and they all have a unique and interactive way of teaching that makes the subjects seem more interesting. The term exams are supposed to be conducted very soon and as far as question papers go, it is very tough to pass and score good marks.

The fee structure is normal when considering that this is a private college. First, they take 59,000 for admission. 44,000 is the semester fees and along with that, they take 15,000 as a security deposit. You can avail scholarship based on your 10+2 marks and graduation marks starting from 80%. The admission scholarship is applicable for the first year only and after that, you have to score a significant amount of marks to keep your scholarship. They have 100%, 80%, 50% and 25% scholarships available. You can also get financially assisted on campus via the admissions department. The availability of jobs is immense as many companies come every year to the campus and the highest package last year was around 50 LPA.

Kristu jayanti college review

The fee is average as compared to all other private institutions providing courses on masters in psychology, and other fees like exam fee and dress n all are also average, there are state and central government scholarships available. And also they provide upliftment scholarships for underprivileged students.

Campus Life is okay and well interactive, students can't use their phones inside the college buildings is a drawback and they are serious about dressing and other stuff. Rest is similar to other colleges in Bangalore. There is a big library in the college, and all sports are played.

HIGHLY APPRECIABLE

I choose the psychology course because here the faculty members are very nice very supportive very talented. College provides internships and many career options. In comparison to other colleges, Icg provides many faculty members. There are total of 6 semesters each semester as a CA component of 30 marks. It makes it easier for students to pass.

Every year Cosmos fest is held in which various students from undergraduate and postgraduate perform dances and music. There is a DJ party also after the event. There are all types of books available in the library, classrooms are very nice. There is extreme sport and extracurricular activities on campus. eg- NSS and NCC

Know All About BHU Admission Procedure and Campus Life

Our Course Curriculum was aligned with NET JRF syllabus so it helped me to clear NET 2018 in Psychology at my maiden attempt. Faculties were always helpful from my department. There we were feeling like at home. Hostel and Mess fees are nominal ( very low in cost) at the same time facilities were first class. Whole campus is Wi-Fi connected.

Fee Structure And Facilities

As I mentioned fees were very nominal and facilities were first class. In my PG total 2 years fees were only Six Thousand (without hostel) and hostel fee at first year were 3450 rupees only. Monthly mess charge is 3000 with breakfast and two times meal.

Life at LDC

I choose this course because my father was an Organ Transplant coordinator and Counselor and I grow seeing him counselling patients and guiding them. Moreover, it's been cultivated within me from my birth as I developed an interest in the same. So after my board exams, I opted for this Psychology course and that's how the journey as a Psychologist started. So coming to student-faculty ratio and relationships, the faculties are so friendly in nature and they showed any arrogance or being dominant. It was about a 20: 1 ratio. The teachers will have the maximum qualification of Phd in Psychology and more added qualifications and a minimum of Mphil in the same. The teaching involves all sorts equip and it will be very mutual. They take time to explain the concept as best as possible. The term exams come once in 6 months and we have a total of 4 semesters and 2 internals per semester and a total of 12 internals in 2 years. Also involves practicals and other assignments and internship assessment

Annually they conduct culturals for overall departments and other colleges to get involved and they conduct department wise culturals separately. Apart from that lots of club programmes happens around a clock. Our college got the best library with almost all period books, journals, newsletters etc. We have smart classrooms fitted with smart TV and an eco-friendly campus. There is no electricity issue fully supported by solar inducted inverters. A green campus to be said in short. College allows students to get equipped in all kind of activities involving sports, arts, crafts etc. Our students bags the majority when comes to any activity all over the state and even out of state. There are lots of clubs in all departments and it is run by students supported by faculties. Namely the women's studies club which is totally for women empowerment.

Master of Science [M.Sc] (Psychology) : 6 answered questions

Ques. which is better for an ma/msc in psychology through distance learning, ignou or annamalai university.

● Top Answer By Singdha Bnerjee on 05 Mar 22

Ques. Which one is better correspondence course MA psychology from from IGNOU or MSc Psychology from University of Madras?

● Top Answer By Ritabhari Dasgupta on 13 Jul 22

Ques. How is the MSc psychology program in Jain University?

● Top Answer By Ranita Roshan on 19 Jul 21

Ques. Is anyone done an M.Sc in psychology in Madras University Distance Education? Is attendance compulsory?

● Top Answer By Nayun Yogi on 30 Nov 21

Ques. Which one is the best: an M.Sc in Applied Psychology from Annamalai University’s distance education or an M.A in Applied Psychology from Chandigarh University’s distance education?

● Top Answer By Niraj Thakur on 19 Nov 22

Ques. I am a BCom student. Can I pursue Christ University’s MSc psychology course?

● Top Answer By Minakshi Singh on 31 May 24

Master of Science [M.Sc] (Mathematics)

Master of science [m.sc] (chemistry), master of science [m.sc] (physics), master of science [m.sc] (computer science), master of science [m.sc] (zoology), master of science [m.sc] (psychology) colleges in india.

Banaras Hindu University - [BHU]

Amity University

Presidency College

Chitkara University - [CU]

Mount Carmel College - [MCC]

Christ University

Shoolini University

Government Arts College (Autonomous)

Subscribe to our news letter.

Experience of CBT In Adults With ADHD: A Mixed Methods Study

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ) may be beneficial for some people with ADHD by helping them develop strategies to manage symptoms, improve executive functioning, and address associated emotional and behavioral challenges. CBT aims to modify thought patterns and behaviors, potentially aiding in areas such as organization, time management, and emotional regulation. Studying the effectiveness of CBT for ADHD is crucial because it can inform best practices in mental health care, ensure that treatments are evidence-based, and potentially improve outcomes for individuals with ADHD. Understanding how CBT works specifically for ADHD can lead to more tailored and effective interventions, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those with the condition.

• The primary methods of studying CBT experiences in adults with ADHD include mixed-methods approaches, combining surveys and in-depth interviews.
• Factors like unadapted CBT framework, therapists’ lack of ADHD knowledge, and rigid therapy structures significantly affect the effectiveness and perceived helpfulness of CBT for adults with ADHD.
• The research, while enlightening, has certain limitations, such as a predominantly female sample and potential selection bias.
• This study highlights the universal relevance of adapting psychological treatments for specific neurodevelopmental conditions, emphasizing the importance of personalized mental health care.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ( ADHD ) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting approximately 2.5% of adults (Song et al., 2021).

ADHD is characterized by impaired executive functions, creating significant impacts on various life aspects (Gjervan et al., 2012).

While pharmacological treatment is considered the first-line approach, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE, 2018) recommends Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as the primary psychotherapeutic treatment for adults with ADHD in the UK.

However, the literature often refers to adapted CBT programs tailored for ADHD, providing limited insight into how adults with ADHD experience and perceive this form of treatment in routine clinical practice.

This study aims to explore ADHD individuals’ experience and perception of CBT delivered in routine clinical practice, to gain a better understanding of this treatment’s helpfulness and perceived effectiveness.

The next step in research is to investigate how CBT can be effectively adapted for adults with ADHD in routine clinical settings.

The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, consisting of an online survey followed by in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a sub-sample of survey respondents.

The study was conducted over a period of 3 months (June-August) in 2023. Participants completed an online survey, which took an average of 15 minutes and included 28 questions in various formats.

Following this, a subset of participants engaged in semi-structured interviews lasting approximately 30 minutes each, exploring their experience of CBT and its effectiveness in addressing their ADHD difficulties.

The study included 46 participants for the survey (71% female) and 10 participants for the interviews (70% female).

All participants were adults with a prior ADHD diagnosis who had received CBT within the UK.

The study used a custom-designed survey and interview protocol.

The survey included multiple-choice questions, 10-point Likert-scale questions, and free text boxes. The interview questions were developed by the authors, who include CBT practitioners and researchers.

Statistical measures

The survey data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and narratives.

The interview data was analyzed using thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-stage process.

The key themes that emerged from the thematic analysis were:

• The complex structure of the CBT framework

The structured nature of CBT, which typically involves systematic approaches to identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors, may not align well with the cognitive patterns and executive function difficulties experienced by individuals with ADHD.

Participants reported that the CBT framework often felt rigid, overwhelming, and incompatible with their ADHD symptoms, such as difficulties with working memory, attention, and consistency.

“I think there’s core things about CBT that are just seen on the face of it to me to be incompatible with ADHD.” (P5)

2. The intricacy of the therapist relationship and its impact on therapy

Many participants reported that their therapists lacked specific knowledge about ADHD, which led to misunderstandings and ineffective interventions.

The therapist-client relationship was often strained by the therapist’s inability to adapt their approach to accommodate ADHD-related challenges.

This lack of ADHD-specific expertise resulted in participants feeling misunderstood, dismissed, or unable to engage effectively with the therapy process.

“I couldn’t see the link with ADHD and she didn’t see it either. [ … ] She knew nothing [about ADHD], and she told me that straight away.” (P8)

3. Consequences of unadapted CBT

Rather than experiencing therapeutic benefits, many participants reported feeling worse after their CBT sessions.

They described increased feelings of failure, lowered self-esteem, heightened frustration with themselves, and a sense of hopelessness about their ability to benefit from therapy.

Some participants even reported that the unadapted CBT exacerbated their emotional dysregulation , leading to increased distress rather than relief.

“It was just such a waste of time for everyone, and it’s a shame, [ … ] it made me feel worse going there, and that’s not what you hope when you do therapy, you expect to feel better afterwards.” (P8)

The survey results supported these themes, with participants reporting that non-adapted CBT was unhelpful and challenging, often depleting their self-esteem and increasing frustration.

This study reveals that adults with ADHD often experience significant difficulties with non-adapted CBT in the UK.

The generic CBT framework was frequently perceived as incompatible with ADHD-related challenges, particularly in terms of executive function deficits and emotional dysregulation.

Therapists’ lack of specialized knowledge about ADHD was a major barrier to effective treatment.

These findings extend previous research by highlighting the potential negative impacts of non-adapted CBT on adults with ADHD, including increased feelings of failure, lowered self-esteem, and heightened emotional dysregulation.

This contrasts with studies showing the efficacy of ADHD-adapted CBT programs, emphasizing the critical importance of tailoring therapeutic approaches to the specific needs of individuals with ADHD.

Further research could focus on developing and testing ADHD-specific adaptations to CBT that can be implemented in routine clinical practice.

Additionally, investigating the training needs of therapists to better equip them for working with ADHD clients could be a valuable next step.

The study had many methodological strengths including:

• Mixed-methods approach, providing both breadth and depth of understanding
• Inclusion of participants from various regions in the UK, enhancing generalizability
• Use of both survey and in-depth interview data, allowing for triangulation of findings
• Rigorous thematic analysis process, including inter-rater reliability checks

Limitations

The study also had several limitations, including:

• The sample was predominantly female, which may not adequately represent the ADHD population, which is typically diagnosed more frequently in males.
• The use of convenience sampling may have attracted participants with particularly charged emotional experiences, potentially skewing the results.
• The impact of different ADHD presentations (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined) on CBT experiences was not analyzed.
• The study refers to a wide range of non-adapted CBT treatments across the UK, making it difficult to generalize findings to specific CBT programs.

These limitations imply that while the study provides valuable insights, caution should be exercised in generalizing the results to all adults with ADHD or all CBT programs.

Implications

The results of this study have significant implications for clinical psychology practice and the delivery of mental health services to adults with ADHD. They suggest that:

• Standard CBT delivery in the UK may need substantial modification to effectively serve adults with ADHD.
• There is a pressing need for additional training for CBT therapists on working with ADHD clients.
• Service providers should consider offering ADHD-specific adaptations of CBT as a standard option.
• The potential for iatrogenic harm from non-adapted CBT highlights the importance of careful assessment and treatment planning for ADHD clients .

Variables that may influence these results include the specific type of CBT delivered, the level of ADHD-specific knowledge and training of the therapist, and the severity and presentation of ADHD symptoms in individual clients.

Primary references

William, S., Horrocks, M., Richmond, J., Hall, C. L., & French, B. (2024). Experience of CBT in adults with ADHD: a mixed methods study.  Frontiers in Psychiatry ,  15 , 1341624. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1341624

Other references

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology.  Qualitative research in psychology ,  3 (2), 77-101.

Gjervan, B., Torgersen, T., Nordahl, H. M., & Rasmussen, K. (2012). Functional impairment and occupational outcome in adults with ADHD.  Journal of attention disorders ,  16 (7), 544-552. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054711413074

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2018). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management. Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87

Song, P., Zha, M., Yang, Q., Zhang, Y., Li, X., & Rudan, I. (2021). The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis.  Journal of global health ,  11 .

Keep Learning

Socratic questions for a college class to discuss this paper:

• How might the experiences of adults with ADHD in CBT differ from those without ADHD? What specific challenges might ADHD symptoms present in a therapeutic context?
• Given the findings of this study, what ethical considerations should therapists and healthcare providers keep in mind when offering CBT to adults with ADHD?
• How might the predominantly female sample in this study have influenced the results? In what ways might the experiences of men with ADHD in CBT potentially differ?
• This study focused on the UK healthcare system. How might the findings translate to other healthcare systems or cultural contexts? What factors should we consider when thinking about the global applicability of these results?
• The study highlights the potential negative impacts of non-adapted CBT. How might this inform our broader understanding of the importance of personalized mental health care? What other conditions or populations might benefit from similar investigations into treatment adaptations
• Given the limitations of this study, what would be the most crucial next steps in research to further our understanding of effective psychotherapy for adults with ADHD?

MSc Organisational Psychology

Key Details

Course Overview

Do you want to learn how to use advanced knowledge and skills in psychology to make organisations more effective and support positive employee outcomes? This MSc Organisational Psychology course is ideal for psychology graduates who want to be at the cutting-edge of practice and psychological research into business and organisations, with a distinctive specialism in workplace wellbeing.  

You will learn with a world class academic team who are members of Norwich Business School’s highly respected Employment, Systems and Institutions group (ESI).  

You will graduate with a strong grasp of contemporary workplace challenges and equipped with the latest theories and techniques in psychology to develop evidence-based solutions. 

The key features of our MSc Organisational Psychology degree are: 

Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) – for psychology graduates who have Graduate Basis for Chartered status (GBC) the MSc confers Stage 1 of the two-stage journey to becoming a Chartered Occupational Psychologist  

Workplace wellbeing at our core – besides covering the key areas of the BPS occupational psychology curriculum, all modules integrate a distinctive critical wellbeing perspective that draws on leading-edge thinking from Norwich Business School’s internationally renowned research on workplace wellbeing  

A practical and research-led approach – the latest advances in theory are combined with a practical, employability skills focus and extensive research training  

Guest speakers – hear from practitioners and MSc Organisational Psychology alumni about their work and their personal career journeys – be inspired to take the next steps! 

Time to explore and discover – guided by expert supervisors, students can deep dive into the organisational issues they care most about in the dissertation research project 

Accreditations

Accredited against the requirements for stage 1 of the route to Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society and full membership of the Division of Occupational Psychology.

Entry Requirements

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):   

IELTS: 6.5 overall with a minimum 6.5 in each component. 

Test dates should be within 2 years of the course start date.  

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review  our English Language Equivalencies  for a list of qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.  

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:   

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA    

Academic English at INTO UEA   

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake for this course is in September each year.

Additional Information or Requirements

Additional entry requirements , into university of east anglia.

If you do not meet the academic requirements for this course, you may be able to study the International Pre-Masters programme offered by our partner INTO UEA. This programme guarantees progression to selected Master's degrees if students achieve the appropriate grade. For more details, please click here:  

International Pre-Masters in Business, Economics and Social Sciences   

Admissions Policy

Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants. 

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2024/25 are: 

UK Students: £12,900 (full time) 

International Students: £22,700 (full time) 

We estimate living expenses at £1,023 per month. 

Further Information on tuition fees can be found  here . 

Scholarships and Bursaries 

The University of East Anglia offers a range of  Scholarships ; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates. 

Course Related Costs

Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs. 

How to Apply

Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University. 

To apply please use our  online application form . 

FURTHER INFORMATION 

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us: 

Postgraduate Admissions Office 

Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515  Email:  [email protected]  

International candidates are also encouraged to access the  International Students  section of our website. 

Employability

After the course.

You’ll graduate ready for a successful career in organisational psychology. If you have Graduate Basis for Chartered status (GBC) the MSc confers Stage 1 of the two-stage journey to Chartered Occupational Psychologist status. (See BPS website .) 

You may work as a business psychology consultant, or within HRM departments in areas such as wellbeing promotion, selection and training, leadership development, or organisational change. The international outlook of the course means you’ll be well prepared to work internationally for multinational companies.

A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.

Examples of careers that you could enter include:  

Consultancy services (e.g., as a work or business psychologist) 

HR specialist in training and development, selection and performance 

Health and safety and wellbeing 

MNCs, as an in-house organisational psychology specialist 

Academia 

Discover more on our Careers webpages . 

Organisational Psychology starting September 2024 for 1 years

Your favourite senior outside college

Home » Job Tips » Career Advice » Career After BSc Psychology

Top 12 Careers After B.Sc. in Psychology: Job Roles, Skills, & More

Pursuing a BSc in Psychology provides a solid foundation for understanding human behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. Graduates in this field possess valuable skills applicable in various professional settings, making them competitive in today’s job market. With the growing awareness of mental health and the importance of psychological well-being, there is an increasing demand for professionals who can apply their knowledge effectively. This blog will explore the diverse careers after a BSc in Psychology, highlighting potential roles in clinical settings, research, corporate environments, and more. Understanding these job options will help you make informed decisions about your career path and how to leverage your education in psychology to create a meaningful impact in society.

Table of Contents

Top 12 Career Options After B.Sc. Psychology

With the increasing awareness about the importance of mental health across the world, the demand for psychology professionals has observed a significant rise. In this section, we will explore job opportunities after a B.Sc. in psychology:

1. Mental Health Counsellor

A mental health counselor provides support to individuals experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties. They create a safe and confidential environment for clients to discuss their thoughts and feelings. Through regular sessions, they help clients explore their challenges, understand their emotions, and work towards personal growth and improved mental well-being. This profession often involves working in various settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, and community organizations. 

i. Key Responsibilities

Here are the key responsibilities of a mental health counselor:

• Conducting individual and group counseling sessions.
• Developing personalized treatment plans based on client needs.
• Providing crisis intervention and emotional support during emergencies.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintaining detailed records of client progress and therapy sessions.
• Upholding ethical guidelines and maintaining client confidentiality.

ii. Skills Required

Here are the skills required to pursue mental health counseling jobs:

• Proficiency in therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build trust with clients, enabling effective therapeutic relationships.
• Detail-oriented approach to ensure accurate documentation of client sessions and treatment plans.
• Knowledge of ethical guidelines and the ability to maintain client confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems for maintaining detailed and organized client records.
• In-depth knowledge of mental health disorders, treatment options, and the latest research in psychology.

iii. Average Salary Range:

• ₹3 LPA – ₹7 LPA

2. Clinical Psychologist

The job profile of a clinical psychologist is considered to be one of the top job opportunities after completing a BSc in psychology. Clinical psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through psychometric tests. They work closely with individuals to understand their emotional and psychological issues and develop effective treatment plans. 

This role involves collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and may include working in hospitals, private practices, or research settings. They work with people facing a range of psychological issues, providing therapies to help manage and improve their conditions.

Here are the key responsibilities of a clinical psychologist:

• Keeping accurate and detailed records of client progress and therapy outcomes.
• Engaging in continuous professional development to stay updated with advancements in the field.
• Participating in research activities to contribute to psychological science and practice.
• Educating clients about their conditions and strategies for managing symptoms.
• Supervising and guiding junior staff or trainees in clinical settings.
• Conducting individual, group, and family therapy sessions.

Here are the skills required to pursue clinical psychologist jobs:

• Proficiency in diagnostic techniques for identifying mental health disorders.
• Expertise in therapeutic methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy.
• Detail-oriented approach to accurately documenting client assessments and treatment progress.
• Knowledge of ethical guidelines and maintaining strict confidentiality with client information.
• Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems for managing client data.
• Strong crisis intervention skills for handling acute psychological situations.
• ₹3 LPA – ₹9.5 LPA

3. Educational Psychologist

An educational psychologist helps improve students’ learning experiences by addressing their psychological needs. They work in schools to support students facing learning, behavior, or emotional challenges. Their job involves assessing factors that impact academic performance and creating strategies to enhance learning environments and promote student success. They also help teachers design effective teaching strategies and interventions. Additionally, they contribute to developing school-wide policies and interventions to address learning difficulties.

Here are the key responsibilities of an educational psychologist:

• Providing direct support and counseling to students to help them overcome personal and academic obstacles.
• Partnering with parents to develop effective support strategies for their children’s educational journey.
• Reviewing and adapting intervention techniques based on student progress and feedback.
• Leading professional development sessions for school staff on psychological and educational best practices.
• Keeping abreast of advancements in educational psychology through research and continued education.
• Advocating for necessary resources and adjustments to better support learning needs.

Here are the skills required to pursue educational psychologist jobs:

• Knowledge of educational theories and practices to inform effective teaching and learning strategies.
• Experience with behavioral management techniques to address classroom challenges.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with students, teachers, and parents effectively.
• Proficiency in cultural competence to address the diverse needs of students from various backgrounds.
• In-depth understanding of developmental psychology and its application in educational settings.
• Capability to manage multiple cases and educational plans simultaneously.
• ₹3 LPA – ₹6 LPA

4. Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders. They use a combination of medical and therapeutic approaches to address complex mental health issues. Moreover, they prescribe medications and offer psychotherapy to help patients achieve better mental well-being and functional improvement. This is a highly in-demand career option after a BSc in psychology, as it allows individuals to specialize in mental health treatment, diagnosing and treating mental disorders, and providing therapy.

Here are the key responsibilities of a psychiatrist:

• Prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medications to ensure effectiveness and manage side effects.
• Providing psychotherapy and counseling to address psychological issues and improve mental health.
• Conducting follow-up assessments to monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists and social workers, to provide integrated care.
• Managing acute psychiatric crises and providing immediate intervention to ensure patient safety.
• Educating patients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies.
• Maintaining detailed and accurate medical records of patient assessments, treatment plans, and progress.

Here are the skills required to pursue educational psychiatrist jobs:

• Proficiency in diagnostic tools and methods for identifying and evaluating psychiatric disorders.
• Expertise in pharmacology and the ability to prescribe and manage psychotropic medications effectively.
• Knowledge of various psychotherapeutic techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy.
• Ability to conduct comprehensive mental health assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Skills in interpreting diagnostic tests and laboratory results relevant to psychiatric care.
• Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems for documenting patient interactions and treatment progress.

5. Child Psychologist

It is essential to consider the psychological needs of the younger generations effectively. In this regard, a child psychologist plays an important role in achieving the well-being of children’s cognitive and behavioral development.  

The professional specializes in understanding and addressing the psychological needs of children and adolescents. By using therapeutic techniques tailored to young clients, child psychologists help children overcome challenges, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve healthier developmental outcomes. 

Here are the key responsibilities of a child psychologist:

• Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of young clients.
• Providing therapy and counseling to address emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges.
• Collaborating with parents, teachers, and other professionals to support the child’s overall development and treatment goals.
• Monitoring and documenting progress in therapy, making adjustments to treatment plans as necessary.
• Facilitating parent training and support sessions to help caregivers implement effective strategies at home.
• Conducting play therapy and other engaging activities to assist children in expressing their thoughts and feelings.

Here are the skills required to pursue child psychologist jobs:

• Proficiency in child-specific assessment tools and diagnostic instruments for evaluating psychological conditions.
• Expertise in evidence-based therapeutic techniques and interventions designed for children and adolescents.
• Knowledge of developmental psychology to address age-appropriate psychological and behavioral issues.
• Ability to design and implement therapeutic activities that engage and support children in their treatment.
• Experience with behavioral modification techniques to address and improve specific behavioral challenges.
• Proficiency in conducting family therapy sessions to involve parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process.
• ₹3 LPA – ₹6.5 LPA

6. Social Worker

The scope after a BSc in psychology also involves working for social causes. A social worker is dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals and communities by addressing various social, emotional, and economic challenges. They work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, and government agencies, to support people in need. 

Additionally, they help people navigate complex systems and develop coping strategies to manage their difficulties. By advocating for clients and providing resources and support, social workers play a significant role in enhancing quality of life and offering positive social change.

Here are the key responsibilities of a social worker:

• Developing and implementing individualized care plans to address identified issues and promote client well-being.
• Assisting clients in accessing and navigating social services, including financial aid, healthcare, and housing.
• Collaborating with other professionals and agencies to coordinate support for clients.
• Advocating for the rights and needs of people within the social services system and the broader community.
• Managing case files and maintaining detailed records of client interactions and progress.
• Engaging in community outreach to raise awareness about available services and resources

Here are the skills required to pursue social work jobs :

• Knowledge of social welfare policies and regulations to ensure compliance and effective service provision.
• Ability to implement evidence-based interventions and therapeutic techniques tailored to individual and group needs.
• Proficiency in grant writing and fundraising to secure resources and support for social programs.
• Understanding of community resources and referral systems to connect clients with necessary services.
• Skills in cultural competence to work sensitively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Expertise in maintaining accurate and confidential client records by professional standards.
• ₹3 LPA – ₹4.5 LPA

7. Research Assistant

A research assistant in the psychology field supports projects by handling tasks that contribute to the design, execution, and analysis of studies focused on human behavior and mental processes. They work closely with psychologists and researchers to collect data, perform statistical analyses, and manage research documentation. This role is important for improving psychological knowledge and understanding human cognition, emotion, and behavior. Research assistants usually work in academic institutions, research labs, or clinical settings. Being aware of how to structure a research assistant cover letter can help increase your chances of landing a job. 

Here are the key responsibilities of a research assistant:

• Assisting in designing research studies and creating experimental protocols tailored to psychological research.
• Collecting data through various methods, including surveys, experiments, and psychological assessments.
• Analyzing data using statistical software to generate results and support research hypotheses.
• Preparing and organizing research reports, presentations, and academic papers based on study outcomes.
• Conducting thorough literature reviews to provide context and support for ongoing research projects.
• Managing research databases and ensuring the accuracy and confidentiality of participant information.

Here are the skills required to pursue research assistant jobs :

• Ability to develop and validate data collection instruments, such as psychological tests and questionnaires.
• Strong organizational skills for managing and maintaining detailed research documentation and participant records.
• Experience with qualitative data analysis software like NVivo for analyzing interview transcripts and observational data.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as SPSS, R, or Python for analyzing psychological data and interpreting research findings.
• Expertise in experimental design and research methodologies specific to psychological studies.
• Knowledge of psychometric tools and techniques for assessing psychological constructs and measuring variables.
• ₹2.5 LPA – ₹10 LPA

8. Behavioural Scientist

Behavioral science is considered to be one of the highest-paying jobs after a BSc in psychology. A behavioral scientist studies human behavior and the factors that influence it. They apply scientific methods to understand and improve individual and group behavior. Their role involves working in various settings, including research institutions, academic settings, and applied fields such as marketing and organizational development.

Behavioral scientists design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and apply their findings to solve real-world problems related to behavior, mental processes, and social interactions. They also develop guidelines and strategies to enhance well-being and performance.

Here are the key responsibilities of a behavioral scientist:

• Studying human behavior by designing and conducting experiments, surveys, and observations to gather data.
• Using statistical tools and methods to analyze the data collected and identify patterns or trends in human behavior.
• Creating theories or models to explain why people behave in certain ways based on the research findings.
• Using the insights gained from research to develop strategies or interventions that can influence or change behavior, often in areas like health, education, or marketing.
• Working with professionals in fields like psychology, sociology, or economics to apply behavioral science in various contexts.
• Documenting research findings in reports, academic papers, or presentations to share with others in the field.

Here are the skills required to pursue behavioral scientist jobs:

• Expertise in experimental design and methodology specific to behavioral research.
• Knowledge of psychometrics and the development of reliable and valid measurement tools.
• Ability to conduct sophisticated data analyses, including multivariate techniques and structural equation modeling.
• Experience with behavioral observation methods and qualitative research techniques for in-depth analysis.
• Strong understanding of theoretical frameworks in behavioral science to guide research and interventions.
• ₹4 LPA – ₹12 LPA

9. Psychiatric Technician

A psychiatric technician provides essential support and care for individuals experiencing mental health issues. They work in various environments, such as psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and residential treatment facilities. Their role majorly focuses on assisting patients with their daily needs and supporting their treatment plans. Additionally, they ensure adherence to treatment plans and maintain a safe and therapeutic environment. Their contributions are essential in helping patients achieve stability and progress in their mental health journey.

Here are the key responsibilities of a psychiatric technician:

• Supporting patients with daily activities and therapeutic exercises to enhance their well-being and progress.
• Administering medications as prescribed and documenting their effects to ensure proper treatment management.
• Facilitating group and individual therapy sessions to support patients’ therapeutic goals and promote recovery.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential records of patient interactions, treatment plans, and progress notes.
• Enforcing safety protocols and managing the facility environment to reduce risks and ensure patient security.
• Participating in professional development and training to stay updated on best practices and advancements in psychiatric care.

Here are the skills required to pursue psychiatric technician jobs:

• Proficiency in using psychiatric assessment tools and electronic health record (EHR) systems for monitoring patient progress.
• Knowledge of behavioral management techniques and therapeutic interventions for various mental health conditions.
• Understanding of medication administration procedures and the ability to monitor and document medication effects.
• Experience with patient care plans and treatment protocols specific to psychiatric settings.
• Strong observational skills for identifying changes in patients’ behavior and mental status.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate patient records while adhering to confidentiality standards.
• ₹2.5 LPA – ₹4.5 LPA

10. Career Counselor

A career counselor helps individuals make informed decisions about their career paths. They provide guidance and support to clients in various stages of their careers, from choosing a field of study to making mid-career changes. Career counselors work with individuals to assess their skills, interests, and values and match them with potential career options that align with their personal and professional goals.

Here are the key responsibilities of a career counselor:

• Assisting clients in developing and refining their resumes, cover letters, and other job Administering and interpreting aptitude tests, personality assessments, and interest inventories to help clients understand their strengths and preferences.
• Assisting clients in setting realistic career goals and developing actionable plans to achieve them, including educational and training requirements.
• Guiding through job search strategies , resume writing, interview preparation, and networking to help clients secure employment.
• Advising students on course selection, college applications, and educational pathways that align with their career aspirations.
• Offering support and counseling to clients facing career challenges, such as job loss, career transitions, or workplace issues.
• Conducting career development workshops and seminars on topics such as job search techniques, career transitions, and skill development.

Here are the skills required to pursue career counselor jobs:

• Ability to listen attentively and empathetically to clients, understanding their concerns, goals, and aspirations without interrupting or making assumptions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey advice, provide feedback, and discuss career options with clients.
• Ability to assess and interpret aptitude tests, personality assessments, and other evaluation tools to help clients make informed decisions.
• Strong interpersonal skills for understanding and relating to clients’ experiences, emotions, and challenges, creating a trusting and supportive counseling environment.
• Ability to identify challenges and obstacles that clients face in their career paths and develop creative and practical solutions.
• Familiarity with career development theories, models, and practices to guide clients effectively through their career planning process.

11. Employee Wellness Coordinator

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, many organizations have started developing work policies that focus on the physical and emotional well-being of their employees. This has resulted in an increase in career options after a BSc in psychology. An employee wellness coordinator is one of the most in-demand jobs in the psychology field. They are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing programs to improve the overall well-being of employees within an organization. 

They work to create a supportive work environment by promoting health and wellness initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, reduce stress, and improve productivity. Their role involves collaborating with various departments, assessing employee needs, and evaluating the effectiveness of wellness programs.

Here are the key responsibilities of an employee wellness coordinator:

• Conducting health assessments and surveys to determine employee wellness needs and program effectiveness.
• Organizing wellness events, such as health fairs, fitness classes, and workshops, to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• Managing wellness program budgets and resources to ensure cost-effective and impactful initiatives.
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals and external vendors to provide additional wellness resources and services.
• Communicating wellness program details and benefits to employees through various channels.
• Monitoring and evaluating the success of wellness programs using feedback and performance metrics.

Here are the skills required to pursue employee wellness coordinator jobs:

• Knowledge of fitness and nutrition principles to create comprehensive wellness plans and resources.
• Ability to use wellness management programs and tools for tracking program participation and outcomes.
• Skills in evaluating program success through data analysis and employee feedback to make improvements.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations to ensure wellness programs comply with legal standards.
• Proficiency in collaborating with external vendors and healthcare providers to enhance wellness offerings.
• ₹3.5 LPA – ₹7 LPA

12. Human Resources Specialist

A human resource specialist has one of the highest-paying HR jobs in India . These professionals focus on managing various aspects of employee relations and organizational development. They put particular emphasis on applying psychological principles to improve the workplace environment. Their role involves recruiting, training, and supporting employees to ensure a positive and productive work environment. Further, they address psychological factors that impact employee performance and satisfaction.

Pro Tip: Learning how to get a job in HR and enrolling in the following courses can help increase your chances of landing an HR specialist job:

• Human resource management placement guarantee course
• Advanced human resource management course
• Business Communication Skills course

Here are the key responsibilities of a human resources specialist:

• Designing and delivering training and development programs that address both technical skills and psychological aspects of employee performance.
• Implementing strategies to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction based on various principles and research.
• Managing employee relations by addressing conflicts, grievances, and performance issues.
• Developing and managing wellness programs that support mental and emotional health in the workplace.
• Providing support and counseling to employees dealing with work-related stress and personal issues through employee assistance programs.
• Staying informed about trends in industrial-organizational psychology and applying this knowledge to enhance HR practices and policies.

Here are the skills required to pursue human resource specialist jobs :

• Expertise in designing and implementing training programs that enhance employee skills and address psychological aspects of workplace behavior.
• Knowledge of organizational psychology to develop strategies that improve workplace culture and employee engagement.
• Ability to use HR software and systems for managing employee records, performance evaluations, and recruitment processes.
• Experience in conflict resolution and mediation to address interpersonal issues and promote a positive work environment.
• Skills in analyzing employee surveys and feedback to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Understanding of employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• ₹3.5 LPA – ₹8 LPA

A BSc in Psychology provides a strong foundation for a variety of careers, whether you’re interested in clinical work, research, education, or the corporate world. Each career option offers distinct opportunities for growth and specialization. Understanding the responsibilities and key skills associated with each role mentioned in this blog can help you make informed choices about your future. As you explore these options for a career after a BSc in psychology, make sure to consider how your interests and strengths align with each role. You can learn more about the highest-paying psychology jobs to understand your career choices better and land your dream job effectively.

Answer: Yes, most psychology-related job roles, such as clinical psychologist, educational psychologist, etc., require advanced degrees (master’s or doctoral) and additional licenses. A BSc in Psychology is typically a starting point that prepares you for further study. Learning about how to become a psychologist can help you better understand the requirements.

Answer: Consider these options to gain experience after earning a psychology degree: – Pursue an internship or volunteer work in relevant settings. Platforms like Internshala can help you look for -these opportunities. – Apply for internships at hospitals, clinics, schools, or mental health organizations. – Offer volunteer work for non-profits, community centers, or mental health helplines. – Participate in fieldwork projects that involve working with specific populations, such as children, the elderly, or those with special needs. – Share your knowledge and insights on psychological topics by starting a blog, writing articles, etc.

Answer: Here are some tips to stay updated about the developments in the field of psychology: – Follow relevant professional organizations and journals. – Participate in psychology conferences, workshops, and seminars to learn about the latest research. – Enroll in online courses, webinars, or certificate programs that focus on new theories, practices, and developments in psychology. – Regularly interact with colleagues and peers in the field to share knowledge and discuss new developments and trends.

• ← Previous
• Next →

Harshita is an English Literature graduate from the University of Delhi with 3 years of experience in Content Writing and Editing. Dedicated to her craft, she loves creating magic with words. She is a big fan of hoarding cute planners and journals and can be seen watching FRIENDS (almost EVERYTIME) in her spare time. Her meticulous attention to detail makes her stand out from the crowd. A typo epidemic is her worst nightmare!

Related Post

Top 12 Jobs After M.Tech Degree: A Comprehensive Guide

An M.Tech degree is a significant milestone that unlocks a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors. This advanced qualification provides graduates with specialized knowledge and technical expertise, making

Top 12 Careers After BA in Economics: Job Roles, Skill Requirements, & More

A BA in Economics degree can prepare you for various career paths in finance, market research, and other areas. It equips you with analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a

How to Hire a Drupal Developer?

Are you looking for a highly skilled Drupal developer for your web development team? Learning how to hire a Drupal developer can prove to be a game-changer for your organization.

Top 12 Jobs After MSc Physics: A Complete Guide

An MSc (Master of Science) in Physics is a prestigious degree that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles governing the physical world. This advanced program immerses