RMP: Programme Structure and Logic

The MSc programme extends over one full calendar year.

The taught component of the programme extends over two semesters. There are six core modules and two compulsory modules. The six core modules are:

  • RESM6009: Applied Research Methods: Qualitative Methods (semester 1; 10 CATS)
  • RESM6012: Applied Research Methods: Designing Research (semester 1; 10 CATS)
  • PSYC6109: Concepts and Skills (semester 1; 20 CATS)
  • RESM6010: Applied Research Methods: Group Comparisons (semester 2; 10 CATS)
  • RESM6011: Applied Research Methods: Correlational Methods (semester 2; 10 CATS)
  • PSYC6046: Advanced Statistics in Psychology (semester 2; 20 CATS)

The two compulsory modules are:

  • PSYC6055: Statistical Programming in R (semester 1; 20 CATS)
  • PSYC6086: Research Apprenticeship (semester 2; 20 CATS)
  • PSYC6136: Open Science in Psychology (semester 2; 20 CATS). In the 2020/2021 academic year, the Research Apprenticeship module is being replaced with the new Open Science in Psychology module.

Students proceeding to MSc will carry out and present an original piece of research in Psychology, an MSc Dissertation (PSYC 6022).

On days of the week when lectures are not scheduled, students will be expected to work in the library, engage in practical work, attend tutorials and seminars in and outside the School and arrange study groups.

Studying at Masters level

Studying at Masters level demands more advanced and intensive study than a first degree, and includes a substantial element of advanced independent work. You should be prepared to take a demanding programme of study and to adopt an enquiring, analytical and creative approach to learning – to see learning as not just the absorbing of strings of facts, but the synthesis of ideas, the exploration of alternative models and the ability to deduce relationships. Problem-solving and communication (written and verbal) are core skills.

The programme structure provides breadth of exposure to a wide range of methods and research-related issues, ensuring that you have an understanding and also some experience (through group and hands-on sessions) of these methods. Equally, the structure permits you to pursue your particular interests, which we find is an excellent means of promoting intrinsic motivation and initiative in the learning process.

Teaching and assessment on each of the modules has been very carefully designed to ensure integration and complementarity, coherence in the order in which different aspects of research are taught, and progression in the complexity of the concepts and skills learned. For example, in the first semester you will be taught the fundamental principles of statistical analysis, which ensures that you are equipped to understand the more advanced teaching on multivariate statistical analysis in the second semester.

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