Why study MSc Psychology in Education?

This British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc conversion programme provides students with an excellent grounding in the psychology of education. It draws on a wide range of theories and methods from across the core areas of psychology and encourages students to interrogate their application to education and educational contexts. Students on the programme benefit from our long-standing tradition of high-quality research and teaching in this area and will acquire unique skills in both psychology and research methods.

Who is the programme for?

As a BPS conversion programme, the MSc Psychology of Education is designed specifically for individuals who do not already hold a BPS accredited degree in psychology and who are seeking to achieve Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS. Individuals who are already eligible for GBC, having graduated from a BPS accredited psychology undergraduate programme, will cover similar content to what they have previously but may be interested in studying on our MSc Psychology of Education programme because of its applied focus and relevance for pursuing professional training.

Entry to professional training programmes is very competitive, but our MSc graduates have historically been very successful candidates for such programmes. After completing the MSc programme, you will typically spend at least a year building up relevant experience, for example working with special needs pupils or with vulnerable clients, before making a successful application to a professional training programme.

For entry onto the MSc Psychology of Education programme, applicants must hold a minimum of a UK upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent) and be able to demonstrate work experience in an area relevant to psychology (e.g., work as a teacher, learning support assistant, assistant psychologist or volunteer in schools or settings for vulnerable clients). Applicants who hold a lower second class honours degree (or international equivalent) and have at least one year (full time) of psychology relevant work experience may be considered on an individual basis. This programme is offered on both a full time and part time basis.

The programme aims to:

Students will understand how research can inform theory, policy, and practice, and how to conduct their own piece of empirical research to answer appropriate research questions. Students will also acquire a range of transferable skills (e.g. communication skills, numerical reasoning, computer literacy, and teamwork).

The knowledge and skills obtained through the programme are highly desired by employers and relevant to a wide range of careers in which an understanding of human behaviour and/or research methods is relevant. Successful students will be eligible to apply for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the BPS and for further professional training accredited by the BPS. Some of our graduates have gone on to careers in educational psychology, clinical psychology, occupational psychology, counselling psychology, neuropsychology, research, community support (including mental health, school and youth work), or engaged in doctoral-level research. 

For further information about these options and how to apply for professional accreditation after the MSc, explore the Careers page on the BPS web site.