Ranking
8th
QS World Rankings 2024
Course overview
Embark on a MSc in Psychology and enter a thrilling adventure into the human mind and behaviour. Broaden your understanding and gain skills to contribute to breakthroughs that can enhance human well-being.
Whether it's finding your niche or diving deeper into a chosen specialty, this course will equip you with the tools to navigate the complex world of psychological sciences and emerge as a professional ready to make a significant impact.
Taking an MSc in Psychology was the best choice I ever made. It was a thrilling year that sparked a deep passion and led me to an exciting career in organization development in India. My supervisors were incredibly supportive, and the courses were truly inspiring, shaping me into a stronger, more independent individual. This year was the highlight of my life—truly unforgettable!
Course Structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, in the first term you will typically complete the compulsory modules while in the second you will be able to choose from a range of optional modules. This is based on a full time Masters course. For part-time students we will devise a study plan in the first weeks tailoring your studies to your non-academic commitments.
Course highlights
Our Psychology Masters degree is taught by active, internationally renowned researchers who work at the cutting-edge of psychological science. Collaborate with academics in the Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH) and Centre for Developmental Science (CDS) with access to outstanding research facilities. Build a broad range of research skills and experience, all in huge demand among employers. Join one of the largest, most active psychology schools in the UK and kickstart your career.
- Develop real-world skills and research experience attractive to employers
- Study in one of the largest, most active psychology schools in the UK
- Access specialist laboratories and research facilities
- 8th
in the UK for Psychology (QS World University Rankings 2024)
- 58th
in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Course delivery
From developing health and education programs to conducting consumer research, the analytical, statistical, and communication skills honed during the course are invaluable. Our diverse teaching methods ensure a well-rounded educational experience, with assessments preparing you for the real-world challenges and choice of optional modules allowing your to tailor your own journey.
Taught modules – Our 20-credit modules are delivered through diverse teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, and journal clubs, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Research-based modules – Work on your own and in groups whilst you study 20-credit research modules. You’ll enjoy regular supervision and directed research work coupled with a 60-credit dissertation. Assessments – include formal and summative coursework and include essays, scientific reports, clinical case reports, scripting and oral and poster presentations.
Module information
The course comprises of a series of taught core and optional modules. The core modules are designed to promote development of skills in experimental design, analysis, and scientific writing.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed 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.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Data Science for Brain and Behaviour | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM MSc Research Project | 60 | |
| LM Proposing Research in Psychology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Research Methods & Skills in Psychology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Research Review in Psychology | 20 | Semester 1 |
If transferring UoB UG students have completed LH/ LI Data Science for Brain and Behaviour, they have the option to choose between:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Cognitive Neuroscience Methods and Applications | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Modelling Change and Diversity: An introduction to structural equation modelling | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Neurodiversity | 20 | Semester 1 |
Students must choose 40 credits of optional modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LH Different Minds: Child and Animal Intelligence | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LH Sleep and Health | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LH What Motivates You? | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Application of Electrophysiological Approaches in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Clinical Psychology and Developmental Diversity | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Different Minds: Child and Animal Intelligence | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Mental Health 2 - Youth Mental Health | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Translational Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 1 |
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- A minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent in Psychology or a related discipline
and have gained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the research dissertation.
You should have obtained a good Honours degree (at least 2:1 or equivalent) in Psychology or a related discipline and have gained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the research dissertation (i.e., experience of planning and conducting research and analysing data).
Those who do not meet our requirement for a 2:1 in their final-year research project, but who have gained significant research experience in a psychology research lab(s) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
A personal statement template is available to help you ensure your personal statement meets our requirements. Failure to include the requested information in the personal statement will result in delays to processing the decision on your application.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which 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: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £10,900
Full-time
- £5,450
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying courses over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 31 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non-tier 4 applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
An MSc in Psychology opens up diverse career opportunities in health, education, and consumer research. Gain analytical, statistical, and communication skills, making you a versatile professional. This degree also paves the way for PhD studies, providing a strong foundation for academic and research excellence. Start your journey into the human mind and unlock impactful career paths!
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.