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University of Gloucestershire
Postgraduate research

Psychology

Professional MSc by Research

Course options

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Study type
Full Time
Course length
2 Years
Campus
City Campus, Gloucester
UCAS Code
N/A

Course overview

The MSc Psychology by Research adopts an active learning approach with a strong emphasis on real-world application, creating a practical and professional course for international students. The programme fosters interactive learning experiences through discussions, case studies, guest lectures, and collaborative projects, encouraging engagement between students and lecturers, as well as among peers.

The course is designed to be inclusive, promoting integration and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds. By working together to explore psychological theories and tackle complex challenges, students develop a deeper understanding of human behaviour across cultures and contexts.

A key feature of the course is its strong emphasis on empirical research. Students will have the opportunity to undertake a research project that critically applies psychological theories to real-world issues. This not only enhances their knowledge and understanding but also strengthens their ability to think critically and analytically while developing valuable skills for a global career in psychology.

Study style

While lectures and seminars form part of our approach, we also encourage you to study with your peers in small communities of practice, connecting with those who have similar interests or similar research approaches. Peer review and feedback are adopted to develop your ability in reflective listening, critical evaluation, and commitment to action.

We encourage you to embrace the use of technology in your learning, maximising engagement, developing transferable skills and enhancing your learning experience. We take a ‘bring your own device’ approach, creating an opportunity for you to develop digital literacies while enriching learning design and learning activity.

The course is brought to life with a range of live briefs, real-world case studies, staff research projects, guest speakers and connections to industry. This provides you with a direct link to your next steps and enriches your learning experience.

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Entry requirements

    • Applicants should hold at least a 2:2 bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an overseas university.

    • IELTS 6.5 overall (with no less than 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in each component) or equivalent qualification.

Fees and costs

You're viewing fees for the course option. Choose a different course option to see corresponding course fees.

Please be aware that students may have to pay a continuation fee if their study continues after the expected duration of their programme.
Start date Course code Fee (UK)
Fee per year
Fee (international)
Fee per year
January 2026 £5,600 £13,425
September 2025 £5,600 £13,425
January 2027 TBC TBC
September 2026 TBC TBC

Ready to apply?

Careers

The employment prospects and career aspirations of our Professional MSc by Research Psychology graduates are exciting and varied. Our course provides students with the knowledge, understanding and experience necessary for exciting graduate careers in a range of established and developing contexts.

Students can explore a range of psychology-related career paths with an international focus. Examples include educational psychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, occupational psychology, and neuropsychology. Negotiating your research focus with our expert staff is a key aspect that will help to shape your future career.

Undertake a significant independent research project

Combine the benefits of a taught programme with the flexibility of a student-created research project. Your interests and passions drive your topic in negotiation with our expert supervisors.

Psychology textbooks on a library shelf.

Taught by experts with international experience

The course is taught by a range of our expert lecturers with in-depth knowledge in specific areas of psychology. Their diverse backgrounds, impactful research, and real-world experiences ensure your programme is at the cutting edge of research and practice.

Psychology demonstrating using a model of a human brain

Be part of an active and vibrant community of students

Enrich your learning with exposure to a diverse community of learners with varied perspectives and experiences. Our welcoming and inclusive environment fosters mutual growth, preparing you for the next stage of study (PhD) or a rewarding career in the psychological sciences.

International students in front of Gloucestershire Business School

Dr Katerina Kantartzis, Deputy Head of School of Education & Science

“Our Professional Masters by Research in Psychology will provide the perfect grounding for those looking to have the benefit of an initial taught programme with the flexibility of a student-led research project. A great option to shape your pathway within many areas of psychology.”

Dr Katerina Kantartzis smiling.

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