MSc Health Psychology: University of Westminster

Introduction

Professional recognition: This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

The course was one of the first to be established, in 1995 and was accredited by the British Psychological Society in 1999, conferring Stage 1 towards registration as a Chartered Health Psychologist.

This Masters course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and applied bases of the psychology of health, illness, and disease. The principal consideration in the design of this programme is to facilitate the intellectual growth of the student and to develop the theoretical and methodological skills essential for conducting independent research and applying health psychology in practice.

Course structure

The course consists of six taught core modules. An independent research based project is undertaken as a double module throughout semester 2 of the course and during the period before the submission date in September. Under the modular scheme, students build up credits towards the total of 180 credits required to obtain the MSc Health Psychology. These are divided into six compulsory modules worth 20 credits and a research based dissertation worth 60 credits. Students successfully completing the course may attain a pass, merit or distinction.

Course structure full-time

• Basic Issues in Health Psychology
• Health and the Lifespan
• Data Handling and Research Methods
• Specialist Topics in Health Psychology
• Individual Differences, Health, Stress and Illness
• Health Psychology in Practice
• Research Based Project

Course structure part-time

Year 1:

• Basic Issues in Health Psychology
• Health and the Lifespan
• Health Psychology in Practice
• Individual Differences, Health, Stress and Illness

Year 2:

• Data Handling and Research Methods
• Specialist Topics in Health Psychology
• Research Based Project

Course assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used in order to develop critical evaluation and effective communication over a range of different medium. These include essays, in-class tests, exams, posters/presentations and reviews.

Associated Careers

The course is a prerequisite for those wishing to pursue Stage 2 training leading to Chartered Health Psychologist status. It also serves as a precursor to those wishing to pursue a PhD in psychology, and other areas of applied psychology such as clinical. The majority of our graduates work in the health related professions.

Entry Requirements

• Normally you should have a good Honours degree that confers eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR) of the British Psychological Society and some evidence of interest in the discipline.
• This can be demonstrated by your choice of undergraduate modules, undergraduate project area or work experience within health psychology or a related field.
• You will need fluent written and spoken English to study at postgraduate level. If your first language is not English, an attainment of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent must be demonstrated.
• The University offers pre-sessional summer programmes if you need to improve your English before starting your course.