Psychological Science - MSc (Psychology)

This programme provides candidates with advanced skills in the methods and topics of Psychological Science broadly defined. The stream structure allows candidates to further specialize in Research Methods, Social Psychology, Community and Health Psychology or Clinical Psychology to tailor their degree to their own career trajectory. The online stream makes the programme accessible to distant learners as it is fully delivered online and does not need on campus presence.

Candidates gain advanced research and analytical skills highly sought after in the field of psychology and in academic/commercial/social research environments. On successful completion of this programme, students will be able to:

• Describe advanced research methods and a variety of psychological theories and paradigms, and identify the applicability of psychological methods and theories to personal and social issues.
• Demonstrate reflective and critical thinking regarding psychological research and its applications and recognise the significance of psychological theories and psychological research methods for personal and social issues in everyday life.
• Develop and apply learning practices for independent studies, such as to identify where and how to locate and access information relevant to the study and research, to interrogate new information, to break tasks into manageable parts, to focus on task-related goals and to provide and receive feedback on learning experiences and progress.
• Display communication and presentation skills, that is, writing skills, oral presentation skills, and interviewing skills.
• Demonstrate interpersonal competencies and professional sensitivity in accordance with the role of psychologists in society, and develop mature and ethical attitudes that help to understand and address social and psychological issues.
• Apply psychological theories and methods to personal and social issues by considering the utility and feasibility of such applications.

The programme provides advanced training in psychological science, with scope to specialize in one of four streams: Research Methods, Social Psychology, Community and Health Psychology or Clinical Psychology. The fifth online stream allows to study fully online. Applicants should indicate their preferred stream in their application. Once accepted into the programme candidates can select the stream of their choice.

4 Core Modules in Research Methods

Major Research Project (Finalized in Summer Semester)

Elective Pool:

PS6061 PROFESSIONAL SKILLS IN PSYCHOLOGY 1

PS6071 SOCIAL INFLUENCE AND ATTITUDE CHANGE

PS6081 PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING

PS6091 CLINICAL MODELS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDERS

ES6002 RESEARCH METHODS FOR EDUCATION AND HEALTH SCIENCES

MN6041 PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN PRACTICE

PS6052 PROFESSIONAL SKILLS IN PSYCHOLOGY 2

PS6062 ADVANCED PERSPECTIVES IN SOCIAL IDENTITY RESEARCH

PS6082 ADVANCED STUDIES IN POLITICAL PSYCHOLOGY

PS6092 METHODS OF CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS AND INTERVENTION

PS6132 MIGRATION: INCLUSION AND HEALTH

PS6072 COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY

PS6121 ADVANCES IN HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY

(MODULE AVAILABILITY FOR ELECTIVES MAY CHANGE FROM YEAR TO YEAR)

Content of modules can be found by using the search option on the book of modules.

Normally a 2.2 honours degree (Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) in psychology is required. In addition, we will consider relevant work experience and equivalent qualifications in cognate fields (e.g., sociology, economics) with substantial research methods experience. In the case of international candidates the overseas equivalent is required. Where candidates are non-native English language speakers, certified demonstrable achievements in a Standard English Language Competency Test will be necessary. Candidates may be interviewed as part of the selection process.

WHAT TO INCLUDE WITH YOUR APPLICATION

• Qualification transcripts and certificates
• 1 (one) written academic reference
• Research Knowledge form -  click here
• A copy of your birth certificate or passport
• If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice
• If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
• English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts AND
• English language competency certificate
• Please click here for Further Information on English Language Requirements

Guidelines on Completing your Application

• To ensure a speedy assessment of your application, please upload the above documents with your application form – your application cannot be assessed until relevant documentation is uploaded
• Please title appropriately any documents you are uploading with the application form, for example "Supporting Statement", "Undergraduate Transcript", "Postgraduate Transcript", "English Language Certificate" etc.

International students can find more information on eligibility requirements here. 

EU Full-time: €7,300

Non- EU Full-time: €15,900

Once registered, students can apply to pay their fees in instalments. A request for a payment plan should be emailed to student.fees.office@ul.ie.

Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the Student Fees Office website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie.)

Graduate Testimonials

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Learn more about Zara's experience on the MSc Psychological Science here.

 

Still Curious?

The team from the Faculty of Education and Health Sciences regularly host and take part in webinars to support future students. If you would like to learn more or ask questions at an online information session, click below.   

Online Information Sessions