The main aim of this module is to introduce students to experimental research within psychology. Students will be taught about the role of the experimental method within the wider context of Psychology's status as a scientific discipline. They will learn about fundamental topics such as; being an ethical experimental researcher; defining a research question; formulating a hypothesis; measuring and testing participants; selecting and executing appropriate statistical analysis; reporting and analysing data; and critically evaluating the outcome of empirical work and its relationship to the existing literature.
The information for Psychology MSc at University of East London as at 12 July 2026.
Back to course page: https://www.uel.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/msc-psychology
Psychology MSc
Overview
This is a conversion course for students with a first degree in another subject area. It means you could go on and train to be a professional psychologist - for example, by studying for a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
You may, however, simply want to study this course because you are interested in the subject of psychology, in which case you will return to your career enriched with knowledge of human behaviour.
A concentrated lecture schedule - Wednesday afternoon and evening for those studying full-time, and if you study part-time you have the option of either Wednesday afternoons or evenings, which means you can combine the study with your current commitments.
Some of our students have obtained a psychology degree overseas but have now moved to the UK and need to add the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) qualification to further their careers. This course ticks that box.
You will benefit from excellent and highly experienced teaching in an internationally recognised school close to the London 2012 Olympic Park in Stratford, in a vibrant area with shopping centres and transport hubs.
Course modules
Year 1
The MSc Psychology at UEL provides comprehensive training in core psychological principles and research methods. You'll learn both experimental and applied approaches to psychological research, covering statistics, ethics, and various methodologies. You'll explore key areas including biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, while examining the discipline's philosophical foundations and history. Throughout the psychology course, you'll develop critical thinking skills and understand how psychological research applies to real-world situations. The Psychology programme finishes with an independent research dissertation where you'll design, conduct, and report on your own psychological study, preparing you for further academic study or professional practice in psychology.
Experimental Research Methods and Statistics (Core Modules)
Applied Research Methods (Mental Wealth) (Core Modules)
The main aim of this module is to introduce you to applied research within psychology. You will be taught about the role of non-experimental and qualitative methodology within the wider context of psychology's status as a scientific discipline. You will learn about fundamental topics such as epistemology; qualitative methods (such as Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis); psychometric testing; the design and administration of questionnaires; non-experimental methodology (such as observational studies); and how to critically reflect on your applied work and its relationship to the existing literature.
Perspectives in Psychology: Biological, Cognitive, and Developmental (Core Modules)
This module has three principal aims. Firstly, to develop a comprehensive and systematic knowledge of concepts, theories and research at the forefront of fields of psychology, cognitive psychology and developmental psychology. Secondly, to develop an awareness of the pertinent scientific and philosophical issues together with the wider context of psychology that informs these areas of the field. Thirdly, to foster an awareness of the implications of the research presented for current debates/issues/themes outside of academia.
Foundations of Psychology: Origins and Concepts, Individual Differences, and Social Psychology (Core Modules)
This module has three principal aims. Firstly, to develop a critical awareness of issues pertaining to ontology, epistemology, philosophy of science and the history of psychology as a discipline. Secondly, to present the major theoretical perspectives in individual differences. Thirdly, to introduce issues and debates in social, emotional and cognitive aspects of psychological development. An ongoing theme of the module will be to consider the implications of the knowledge imparted for real-life events and the development of professional practice.
Dissertation (Independent Research Thesis) (Core Modules)
The main aim of this module is to consolidate students' awareness of the issues involved in the formulation, execution, and reporting of psychological research and theory via the production of a dissertation featuring an independently produced piece of psychological research.
Entry requirements
September 2026 - MSc
Academic requirements
Accepted Qualifications
Bachelor's degree with minimum Upper Second Class (2:1) in any discipline (except BPS accredited BSc Psychology).
International Qualifications
We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications in addition to A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTEC qualifications. Please visit our International page for full details.
English Language requirements
- Overall IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in Writing, Speaking, Reading and Listening (or recognised equivalent).
If you do not meet the academic English language requirements for your course, you may be eligible to enrol onto a pre-sessional English course. The length of the course will depend on your current level of English and the requirements for your degree programme. We offer a 5-week and an 10-week pre-sessional course.
Mature applicants and those without formal qualifications
As an inclusive university, we recognise those who have been out of education for some time may not have the formal qualifications usually required. We welcome applications from those who can demonstrate their enthusiasm and commitment to study and have the relevant life/work experience that equips them to succeed on the course. We will assess this from the information provided in your application or may request additional information such as a CV or attendance at an interview. Please note that some courses require applicants to meet the entry requirements outlined.
Admissions policy / Terms of Admittance
We are committed to fair admissions and access by recruiting students regardless of their social, cultural or economic background. Our admissions policy sets out the principles and procedures we use to admit new students for all courses offered by the university and its partners.
Further advice and guidance
You can speak to a member of our Applicant Enquiries team on +44 (0)20 8223 3333, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Alternatively, you can visit our Information, Advice and Guidance centre.
What makes this course different
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS)
This is a mark of quality that students and employers understand and value. A BPS accredited course will help you get graduate or chartered membership for the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC).
Flexible afternoon and evening lectures
The one-year course is ideally suited to busy professionals, with lectures scheduled on Wednesday afternoon and evening each week. It is intensive and you will need to study outside scheduled teaching days - but you can combine it with work. You can also study part-time over a longer period.
Research excellence
92 per cent of research world-leading, internationally excellent, or internationally recognised
Fees, Funding and Additional
Fees
Course fees for new postgraduate students are provided on our individual postgraduate course pages.
Full-time courses are generally charged by the year, and there is a separate charging structure for international students.
Tuition fees are subject to annual change. Fees for future years will be published in due course.
See our tuition fees policy and fee status assessment for more information.
EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals
EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals starting a course from September 2021, will no longer be eligible for Home fees. However, such nationals benefitting from Settled Status or Citizens' Rights may become eligible for Home fees as and when the UK Government confirms any new fee regulations. Further information can be found at UKCISA.
Funding
Home students
Postgraduate Loans Scheme
Postgraduate loans
Postgraduate loans (PGL) provide non-means-tested loans to taught and research master's students. It will be paid to students as a contribution towards tuition fees, living costs and other course costs. Applications are made directly through Student Finance England.
Eligibility
Whether you qualify depends on:
- if you've studied a postgraduate course before
- your course
- your age
- your nationality or residency status
Full eligibility can be found on the Government's Postgraduate Loan webpage.
Use our funding calculator to explore more funding options.
Postgraduate Scholarship
Apply for a 50 per cent discount on your tuition fees! You can get a 50 per cent discount on course fees through a UEL Postgraduate Scholarship.
The scholarship is open to full-time and part-time UK and EU students of taught postgraduate courses. *Exclusions apply.
Find out more about the full eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Terms and conditions apply.
Use our funding calculator to explore more funding options.
Our scholarships and bursaries can help you
How we can help you
Did you know that with a postgraduate qualification, you can expect to earn more than someone who only holds an undergraduate degree?
If you want to build new skills, change career paths, or further your career prospects, a postgraduate degree can help you. Our range of scholarships and bursaries will make financing your education that much easier. Below is some of the funding available to support you in your studies:
- Postgraduate Alumni Scholarship - up to 25% fee waiver *exclusions apply.
- Early Payment Discount - 5% fee waiver
- Asylum Seekers scholarship - 100% fee waiver
- Hardship Bursary - up to £3,000
- Sport Scholarships - Up to £6,000
Terms and conditions apply.
How to pay your fees
There are several ways you can pay your fees to UEL.
Full information on making payments can be found on our Finance page.
If you wish to discuss payments to the University, please contact our Income Team on 020 8223 2974, or you can email creditcontrol@uel.ac.uk
Ideas for funding your postgraduate study
Below are some ideas on how to fund your postgraduate study:
- Apply for a Postgraduate Loan
- Take advantage of UEL scholarships and bursaries - if you are an international applicant you do not need to apply for a scholarship. You will be assessed when you apply for a course.
- Ask your employer to sponsor your study
- Study part-time so you can work at the same time (applicable to courses that have a part-time mode)
- Look at UK Research and Innovation funding options
Use our funding calculator to explore your options.
Contact us
The Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) are here to help you navigate your finances while you're a student at the University of East London.
We can give you advice, information and guidance on government and university funds so that you receive your full funding entitlement.
Live chat: Click the live chat icon in the bottom left of the screen
Phone: 020 8223 4444
International students
Living costs for a UK Student visa
As part of the Student visa requirements, you are required to have sufficient funds to study in the UK.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) estimates that you will need £1,529* per month to cover your living costs. It includes expenses for accommodation, food and drink, travel within London, textbooks, entertainment, clothing, toiletries and laundry.
Most Student visa holders are required to show they have sufficient living costs (a maximum of nine months) for the course when applying for their visa - a total of £13,761* - in addition to any unpaid course fees, as stated on the CAS. You can find more information about specific requirements on our page about applying for a student visa from outside the UK.
*Please note the Immigration Rules are subject to change, and this figure is likely to be increased by UKVI year on year. Please check our Visa and Immigration Advice pages for more information at the time of preparing your Student visa application.
How to pay your fees - international students
Deposits and paying by instalments
International students are required to pay a deposit before being issued a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Your remaining balance will be paid in five monthly instalments over your first term. The first of these instalments must be paid when completing your enrolment on arrival at UEL. Please follow the payment instructions on our paying your fees page.
After the required payment has been made, you will be asked to complete the online International Student Reply Form to confirm your acceptance of our offer and of our terms of admission and fee policy.
International scholarships
You may be eligible to apply for a scholarship to study at the University of East London. Our International Office can provide guidance on opportunities available in your home country, the UK, or within your specific subject area. Our scholarships include:
Contact us
Our International team at UEL are available for advice and guidance on studying in London, fees, scholarships and visa requirements.
Email: international@uel.ac.uk
Additional costs
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Some additional fees are in the course specification or given during the application process.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Textbooks
Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to, or be required to, buy your own copy of key textbooks.
Computer equipment
There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences.
Free WiFi is available on each of our campuses.
Printing
In the majority of cases, coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees.
Travel
Travel costs are not included but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses and halls of residence.
For this course, you will be:
- involved in processes of making, as a means of exploration, experimentation, and understanding your practice, by using a diverse range of media and materials
- required to purchase your own copy of books, for required reading
- required to produce physical artefacts for assessment
- able to participate in optional study visits and/or field trips
However, over and above this you may incur extra costs associated with your studies, which you will need to plan for.
To help you budget, the information below indicates what activities and materials are not covered by your tuition fees:
- personal laptops and other personal devices
- personal copies of books
- optional study visits and field trips (and any associated visa costs)
- printing costs
- your own chosen materials and equipment
- costs of participating in external events, exhibitions, performances etc.
The costs vary every year and with every student, according to the intentions for the type of work they wish to do. Attainment at assessment is not dependent upon the costs of materials chosen.
What we're researching
The Research Excellence Framework is a six-yearly national review by the Higher Education Funding Council for England. In 2021 it rated 92 per cent of UEL's overall research as world-leading, internationally excellent, or internationally recognised.
Research subjects in recent years have included electronic cigarettes, infant development and neuropsychology.
Professor Rachel Tribe was awarded the British Psychological Society's Ethics Committee's 2013 award for promoting Equality of Opportunity. Her clinical interests focus on all aspects of trauma, culture and mental health, professional and ethical practice, working with interpreters in mental health, migration and mental health and organisational development.
Dr Caroline Edmonds' research examines the effect of hydration on cognition in children and adults.
Dr Volker Thoma's work includes research on judgment and decision-making, in financial and medical domains, and together with Dr John Turner he supervises a study on problem gambling involving brain stimulation, funded by the Responsible Gambling Trust.
Your future career
The MSc in Psychology can be used in a variety of ways. For some careers (clinical psychology, educational psychology, or counselling psychology for example), a BPS-accredited qualification in psychology is a prerequisite for entry into professional training courses. For others, such as occupational psychology, the qualification can be used towards eventual Chartership in the field. In this case please check the relevant entry criteria for these careers (e.g. by visiting the British Psychology Society web pages). If you find the academic side of psychology more appealing, you will be ideally placed to apply for research positions, having completed your own research project on this course. This can be used as a stepping stone to a research doctorate. Finally, we are a school with a tradition of teaching that goes back more than 50 years. The skills you gain here are transferable to a wide range of careers, including that of an applied researcher. Although the lectures are in concentrated form, this degree is demanding and you will have to put in your own extra work and reading time. This all helps to develop your organisational skills.
Job roles
Our MSc conversion degree is studied by people from a broad spectrum of employment. Our students return to jobs in the City, in healthcare, education, advertising, the media, or HR. In fact, this course is likely to have a positive effect on any career.
How we support your career ambitions
We offer dedicated careers support, and further opportunities to thrive, such as volunteering and industry networking. Our courses are created in collaboration with employers and industry to ensure they accurately reflect the real-life practices of your future career and provide you with the essential skills needed. You can focus on building interpersonal skills through group work and benefit from our investment in the latest cutting-edge technologies and facilities.
Career Zone
Our dedicated and award-winning team provide you with careers and employability resources, including:
- Online jobs board for internships, placements, graduate opportunities, flexible part-time work.
- Mentoring programmes for insight with industry experts
- 1-2-1 career coaching services
- Careers workshops and employer events
- Learning pathways to gain new skills and industry insight
Mental Wealth programme
Our Professional Fitness and Mental Wealth programme which issues you with a Careers Passport to track the skills you’ve mastered. Some of these are externally validated by corporations like Amazon and Microsoft.
We are careers first
Our teaching methods and geographical location put us right up top
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship support
- Ranked 2nd for graduate start-ups (2023/24)
- Networking and visits to leading organisations
- Support in starting a new business, freelancing and self-employment
- London on our doorstep
How you'll learn
We are now recognised as one of the UK's leading modern universities for psychology research. Our teaching is regularly audited and our School of Childhood and Social Care offers more sub-disciplines than many other universities. You will have the opportunity to participate in innovative research with specialists in their fields as part of your research dissertation. And the wide spectrum of research being conducted means you will have a broad range of choices for your project's subject area.
Teaching and support
Lectures and seminars are accompanied by comprehensive lecture notes and an extensive range of online materials. Students are also allocated dedicated MSc personal tutors who will give them support and answer academic queries.
The course uses a variety of teaching and learning methods that will help you reflect on practice and attain the learning outcomes for each module.
Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, group exercises, peer study groups, and individual supervision.
There are also interactive online materials that you can access, and there will be individual reading, exercises, and assignments to complete.
Learning resources include IT and general psychology laboratories (which include specialist research hardware and software), access to electronic journals and databases, and specialist library facilities.
Location
Our London location, the intensive nature of our study, and having two points of entry - September or January - mean this course meets the needs of a diverse range of students.
Tailored curriculum
We are also one of few institutions where our MSc Psychology students are taught entirely as an MSc cohort with no overlap in teaching with our undergraduate students. So your class will be made up of entirely MSc students, and be designed for MSc students only.
How you'll be assessed
We use a wide range of assessment procedures. Exams and coursework are moderated, while dissertations are double marked. Assessments will include coursework, written unseen exams and a written research dissertation.
Campus and facilities
Stratford Campus, London, E15 4LZ
Our historic Stratford campus is located in one of the best-connected areas of London: close to Stratford's thriving town centre, the 2012 Olympic Park, just 15 minutes from London's West End and 20 minutes from Canary Wharf.
Stratford’s facilities include a state-of-the-art library and learning centre, the majestic great hall and specialist laboratories and computing services. The School of Childhood and Social Care, and Centre for Clinical Education in Podiatry, Physiotherapy and Sports Science are housed in new buildings. There is also a campus restaurant and bookshop, and a Students' Union café-bar.
Westfield Stratford City - Europe's largest indoor shopping mall - is just one of Stratford's attractions, alongside many other shops, cafés, bars, restaurants and cinemas. Stratford is fast becoming London's new cultural quarter, with Sadler's Wells East and V&A East moving in.
Who teaches this course
This course is delivered by the School of Childhood and Social Care.
The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers. Full details of the academics will be provided in the student handbook and module guides.
Irina Anderson School of Childhood and Social Care
Martin Willis School of Childhood and Social Care
Mary-Jane Budd School of Childhood and Social Care
Ian Tucker School of Childhood and Social Care
Anna Stone School of Childhood and Social Care
Elley Wakui School of Childhood and Social Care
James Walsh School of Childhood and Social Care
Volker Thoma School of Childhood and Social Care
Mark Harwood School of Childhood and Social Care