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Course modules

The MSc combines theoretical, applied, and research-focused modules designed to develop advanced knowledge of Health Psychology alongside research, professional and transferable skills.

The course is delivered through Â鶹ӰԺ’s block teaching approach, enabling you to build your knowledge and skills progressively across the programme.

All modules are compulsory for successful completion of the MSc and for recognition by the accrediting body. There are no optional modules.

Block 1: Theories and Perspectives in Health Psychology (15 credits)

Explore key theories and perspectives that explain the relationships between psychology, behaviour, health and illness. You will critically examine the biopsychosocial model of health and consider how psychological, behavioural and social factors influence health and wellbeing, including through health-related behaviours such as physical activity and alcohol use.

Block 1: Research Methods for Applied Psychologists (15 credits)

Develop your understanding of how psychological research is designed and conducted in applied settings. You will explore research design and approaches to data collection and analysis, with particular emphasis on qualitative methods, developing the skills to critically evaluate evidence and make informed methodological decisions.

Block 2: Critical and International Perspectives on Health Psychology (15 credits)

Explore health and illness through psychological, social, cultural and global perspectives. You will critically examine health inequalities and the wider social determinants of health, considering how disadvantage, culture and access to healthcare shape health experiences and outcomes in the UK and internationally.

Block 2: Applied Statistics in Health Psychology (15 credits)

Develop advanced quantitative research and data-analysis skills relevant to Health Psychology and health research. You will explore applied statistics and psychometric theory, learning to select, conduct and interpret appropriate analyses while developing digital and analytical competencies relevant to research and professional practice.

Block 3: Promoting Health, Managing Illness (30 credits)

Apply Health Psychology theory and evidence to real-world challenges in health promotion, behaviour change and the management of long-term health conditions. You will critically explore the development and evaluation of health-related interventions while building professional skills in areas such as communication, consultancy and the application of behaviour change approaches.

Block 4: Mind, Body, Food and Health (30 credits)

Explore the complex relationships between psychological and physiological processes and their influence on health and illness. You will examine areas including stress and psychophysiology alongside the psychology of eating, appetite and body image, critically considering how psychological, social and biological factors shape food-related behaviours and health.

Blocks 1 to 6: Advanced Applied Psychology Dissertation (60 credits)

Undertake an independent research project exploring a health-related topic of interest to you. Supported by an academic supervisor, you will apply the research skills developed throughout the course to design and conduct a study, analyse and interpret your findings, and communicate your research through an extended academic dissertation. The project provides an opportunity to develop expertise in a specialist area while gaining valuable experience of the research process from inception to completion.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops, practical activities and tutorials, supported by guided independent study. Learning activities are designed to help you move beyond understanding psychological theory to critically evaluating and applying evidence to real-world health challenges.

You will experience a varied range of assessments designed to develop academic, research and professional skills. These may include research reports, essays, presentations, case-based activities, reflective work and a mini systematic literature review, culminating in an independent research dissertation.

Throughout the course, you will develop transferable skills including critical thinking, evidence evaluation, research and data analysis, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, ethical decision-making and reflective practice.

Teaching contact hours

Contact hours may vary across the academic year, but typically on a full-time programme, you can expect around three full days of teaching per week, which may include small and medium group teaching and individual tutorials. Scheduled teaching should be supplemented by a significant amount of independent study each week, including reading, preparation for teaching sessions, assessment work and dissertation-related activity.

Accreditation

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and provides Stage 1 training in Health Psychology for suitably qualified applicants. Successful completion can support progression towards Stage 2 training, which is required for those wishing to become registered Health Psychologists.

BPS accreditation is subject to regular review.

Academic expertise

The course is taught by a team of research-active academics with expertise across Health Psychology and related areas. Staff work with external partners including the NHS, local authorities, charities and community organisations, helping to ensure that teaching is informed by contemporary research and real-world health challenges.

Staff publish their research in leading academic journals and present their work at national and international conferences, bringing current evidence and debates directly into your learning.

Research in Psychology at Â鶹ӰԺ

Research is an important part of psychology at Â鶹ӰԺ. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), 75% of the Division’s research impact was rated world-leading (4-star) or internationally excellent (3-star). Its research power was ranked 7th among post-92 universities and 38th across the sector.

This research environment gives students opportunities to engage with current evidence and debates in psychology.