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Course modules

The MSc consists of theoretical, work-related and research-based modules which are described below. Please note that ALL modules are compulsory for successful completion of the award and for recognition by the accrediting body. There are no optional modules.

Block 1: Theories and Perspectives in Health Psychology (15 credits) - explores the biopsychosocial model of health and evaluates the ways in which lifestyles and health-enhancing and health- compromising behaviours (such as exercise, and alcohol consumption) impact on our well-being

Block 2: Critical and International Perspectives on Health Psychology (15 credits) - integrates psychological and sociological perspectives to develop understanding of health and illness among disadvantaged communities in the UK and around the world.

Block 3: Promoting Health, Managing Illness (30 credits)- focuses on the application of theoretical perspectives to health promotion and living with illness with a strong focus on the development of professional skills.

Block 4: Mind, Body, Food and Health (30 credits)- investigates the ways in which mind and body interact to affect health,  with a special focus on stress and the psychology of eating behaviour.

Block 5 and 6: Advanced Applied Psychology Dissertation (60 credits) - is an independent research project in a health-related topic area of your choice, presented in the format of a journal article

Research Methods for Applied Psychologists (15 credits) - Introduces you to research design and a range of approaches to data collection and analysis with a particular emphasis on qualitative methods.

Applied Statistics in Health Psychology (15 credits) - develops your skills in applied statistics and psychometric theory for health sciences, and enhances your digital competencies.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching typically includes lectures, group seminars, workshops and individual tutorials. You are encouraged to become an independent and proactive learner, and we will recommend reading and electronic resources for independent study to help develop the breadth and depth of your knowledge.

There is a significant focus on developing skills that are transferable to a variety of careers and contexts on an international level.

Learning activities are designed to help you develop your teamwork, presentation and problem-solving skills, plus more traditional academic skills such as synthesis, evaluation and application. We also help you to develop your skills and understanding in professional areas such as ethics and reflective practice.

You will benefit from the support of a personal academic tutor, who you are encouraged to meet with regularly. We also offer a range of additional support services to help you develop the skills required for master’s level study.

We offer a wide variety of assessment including reports, discussion boards, essay, presentations and a mini systematic literature review. Bespoke guidance materials are provided for all forms of assessment on the course.

Teaching contact hours

Contact hours may vary in different weeks but typically on a full-time programme you can expect around 3 full days of teaching, which will include small and medium group teaching and regular individual tutorials.

You will experience lectures, seminars, workshops and practical classes. This should be supplemented by a significant amount of personal study each week.

Accreditation

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society and forms the stage one training pathway for Practitioner Health Psychologists for suitably qualified applicants. It is subject to review on a quinquennial basis.

Academic expertise

The health psychology course is delivered by a team including academic health psychologists and practitioner psychologists. All staff are research active in the field, many working with external partners, such as the NHS, local authorities and charities. Staff present at relevant national and international conferences and publish work in specialist journals such as Health Psychology, Social Science and Medicine, Disability and Rehabilitation and Maternal and Child Nutrition.

Research in the Division of Psychology

The Division of Psychology at ÐßÐßÊÓƵ prides itself on its thriving research culture. In REF2021 (Research Excellent Framework), psychology earned several accolades: 75% of our research impact was ranked World-leading (4*) or Internationally Excellent (3*), and our research power was ranked 7th relative to other post-92 universities (and 38th across the sector). Our research expertise and experiences feed directly into our teaching, helping to inform both our undergraduate and postgraduate provisions.