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Harley McIntosh
‘The course is very intense yet rewarding. It covers such a broad spectrum of psychology. I have been constantly challenged to develop new skills and hone my research techniques.’ Harley McIntosh
This is the part-time version of the MSc in Psychology. For the full-time programme, please visit this page.
Why do we behave the way we do? What predicts our behaviour? And how can we study behaviour scientifically? Our MSc in Psychology attempts to answer these questions using the scientific method.
This programme is designed for graduates who want to convert their existing degree into a recognised psychology qualification, for people looking to change career, or for anyone with an interest in the science of behaviour.
The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and therefore confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).
It covers the major branches of psychology. This includes:
- Biological psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Conceptual and historical issues
- Developmental psychology
- Individual differences
- Research methods
- Social psychology
It also provides a series of electives including cultural psychology, the psychology of motivation, the psychology of humour, occupational psychology and the psychology of religion and belief which are offered subject to demand. The programme also offers an opportunity to study a foreign language in the second term.
You will also learn a range of research skills, such as:
- Communicating findings
- Conducting laboratory experiments
- Designing studies
- Evaluating evidence
- Statistical analysis
You will have access to a dedicated psychology laboratory and testing cubicles and to specialist equipment which will enable you to carry out eye-tracking, and record brain electrical activity, heart rate, pulmonary response, blood pressure and olfactory testing.
Structure
This two-year, part-time MSc is divided into three terms of 12 weeks per year. There are formal University examination and assessment periods at the end of term 1 (January) and term 2 (May) and a resit examination period during the summer (July). There are other module-specific assessment points throughout the term (where you will be submitting coursework or making a group presentation, for example). You will submit your dissertation at the end of term 3 (September) in your second year of study.
Year 1
| Module Title | Credits | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Psychology | 10 credits | The aim of this module is to provide students with a grounding in, and understanding of, the biological basis of behaviour. The module will introduce students to the central nervous system and its function, how nerve cells communicate, methods used by biological psychologists, and to the role of the brain in behaviours such as sensation, perception, emotional recognition and expression, decision-making and others. The module will examine critically the relationship between biological processes/structures (especially those in the brain) and behaviour. |
| Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology | 10 credits | Through this module students will become familiar with the history of Psychology and its emergence as an independent discipline in the nineteenth century. The module will also introduce a range of key conceptual areas of debate, which will encourage the students to engage in discussions and to apply and consider opposing views in relation to key areas of conceptual debate within psychology. |
| Research Methods 1 | 20 credits | The aim of this module is to provide students with the necessary basic skills and knowledge to engage in elementary research methods and statistical analysis. The module will introduce students to the scientific method, ethics in Psychology, statistical terminology and reasoning, laboratory report procedure, formatting and writing, and will teach general studies skills required for successful study at this level (e.g. how to read and write a journal article). The module will include an introduction to SPSS and to statistical tests such as correlation and chi square. The work accomplished in this module will provide the basis for progression to Research Methods 2 in Term 2. |
| Research Methods 2 | 20 credits | The aims for this module are for students to build on the skills acquired in Research Methods 1 and to develop new ones through a series of lectures, practical classes and group work. Students will be taught the theory and application of a series of new statistical tests considered to be of an intermediate level. Laboratory reports in this course will be largely student led in terms of design and data collection, providing experience for students who will start preparing their dissertation research in the following semester. |
Year 2
| Module Title | Credits | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Psychology | 10 credits | The aim of this module is to introduce students to the abstract mental processes involved in human behaviours and abilities. The module aims to guide students through human cognition from the principles of perception through attention, learning and memory, and thence onto higher order issues such as consciousness and the language of thought. |
| Developmental Psychology | 20 credits | |
| Individual Differences and Social Psychology | 20 credits | |
| Research Methods 3 & Dissertation | 60 credits |
The research project is a substantial piece of independent empirical work conducted by student and which provides students with the opportunity to apply what they have learned throughout the course, in the form of an empirical piece of research. It is the culmination of the Programme and is a core element of the degree. Students choose a research topic that interests them and for which they have undertaken a comprehensive literature review to ensure that the project is viable and original. All research projects are supervised and staff will supervise projects in areas in which they have specific expertise and competence although supervisors can consider supervising research projects outside their specific research interests. Students beginning thinking of potential research ideas in Term 1 with the aim of submitting an application for ethical approval in Term 2. In support of the research project in Term 3, the module includes a taught component which introduces students to advanced research methods. Students will learn the theory behind a number of more advanced statistical techniques as well as learning about qualitative methods. |
| Optional Module* | 10 credits | You will be able to choose one of the optional modules from the list below. |
Optional Modules*
*All optional modules run subject to availability, staffing and student demand.
| Module Title | Credits | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Cross-Cultural Psychology | 10 credits | This module is intended to familiarize students with current issues in psychology relating to culture, universality and individual difference. In particular several core areas will be covered, namely developmental issues, emotions, values, self-identity, and psychopathology. Empirical works and major reviews in this area will be presented and students will be required to discuss the works with a view to identifying the implications of these works for psychological understanding and application. |
| Consumer Psychology | 10 credits | |
| Occupational Psychology | 10 credits |
The aim of this module is to develop an awareness of the role of Occupational Psychologists in modern day organisational life. The module will examine the lifecycle of an employee from entry to exit. In addition it will consider some of the wider organisational issues that impact on the employment relationship. In this elective students will critically evaluate the theories which have been offered to explain human behaviour in organisations by examining psychological principles in the workplace. |
| Psychology of Motivation | 10 credits |
This module explores the concept of motivation, which is defined to be the energizer of behaviour. Often, internal states are believed to result in a motivation, but other forces can influence motivation as well. As there is not one cause we can point to for any complex human behaviour, motivation is a fascinating and complex topic of study. For example, we could ask ourselves, why do we eat? Do we only have sex for procreation? In this module, you would not only learn about biological, social and cognitive theories of motivation and emotion, but also apply this knowledge to a variety of complex human motivations. Many of the classes will be led by students, where different groups of students approach a behaviour from a specific angle and inform the other groups during class time. For example, how does the hormone leptin signal satiety? How do cultural factors influence whether you eat more or less? What can we learn about our ‘normal’ eating behaviour from disordered eating? As such, together we try to compile the theories and research concerning a range of motivated behaviours. This is complemented by an exploration of emotions, which are closely related to motivation. |
| Psychopathology | 10 credits | |
| Regent's Connect | 10 credits |
How to apply
Applying to study at Regent's University London is quick and easy. We have put together some helpful information to guide you through the process. We accept direct applications and there is no application fee.
Not received your results yet?
That's fine, you can still apply even without your exam results. We can issue a conditional offer without your results. You just need be clear in your application which qualifications you are currently studying for.
Application deadlines
September 2020
Early deadline: Wednesday 11 December 2019 click here to find out more about this deadline
Step 1 Apply
You can apply in the following ways:
- Apply for online
- Apply using the paper application form
If you have not uploaded the relevant supporting documents during the online application process, you should ensure that we have the below supporting documents as soon as you have completed your application. These can be sent to the Regent’s Admissions Department via email to [email protected].
- Copies of academic transcripts and certificates from all university studies (i.e. undergraduate degree)
- Proof of your GCSE Mathematics graded A-C/9-4 (ie GCSE Certificate), or international equivalent
- One letter of academic recommendation
- A copy of your CV/resumé showing your work experience, if applicable
- A 500-700 word personal statement outlining the reasons for applying to your chosen programme, how you feel you will benefit from the programme of study, what contributions you will make to the university and how this will help your future career aspirations.
- A copy of your passport photograph (ID) page
- If you are not a native English speaker, proof of your English proficiency
Step 2 Receive a response to your application
You can expect to receive a decision on your application within 10 working days of receipt of your completed application and supporting documents.
We will assess whether you meet our entry requirements and will notify you of the decision via email.
Step 3 Accepting your offer
If you wish to accept the offer, please pay the advance tuition fee deposit (non-refundable) to confirm your place.
Please see here for information on how to pay.
Step 4 After you have accepted your place
Closer to the start of the term the Admissions Team will send information regarding the registration process. This will include information on completing your online enrolment prior to your arrival as well as a checklist of documents you will need to bring with you to fully register onto the programme.
Information for international students
If you are an overseas student requiring visa sponsorship to study in the UK, our team will be in touch with information on applying for your student visa and the documents you will need. More information can be found on our visas and immigration page.
Future Finance loans
Alternative loan funding* for students studying at Regent's University London.
India Postgraduate Taught Masters scholarships
Regent’s University London has a long-standing tradition of welcoming talented students from all over India. Our students from this region have always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit and have graduated from Regent’s fully equipped to join a large multinational, start their own company or join the family business. Regent’s is therefore pleased to offer five postgraduate scholarships specifically for students of Indian nationality, each worth £3,000.
Postgraduate loans - Student Finance England 2018-19
Student Finance England (SFE) is now offering funding for UK and EU nationals, as well as students with the status of Migrant Worker (under the age of 60 on the date of first class of the first Master’s degree).
Students, who already hold one Master’s degree (or an equivalent or higher-level qualification) will not be eligible.
Full details
Regent’s Family Reward
Regent’s offers an intimate style of education, characterised by lots of personal attention. This personalised approach extends beyond our students to their families, with the University welcoming increasing numbers of brothers, sisters and even children of our alumni each year. The University is delighted to offer the Regent’s Family Reward as a thank-you to our alumni for their and their families’ loyalty.
Regent's Postgraduate Progression Scholarships
Regent's Postgraduate Progression Scholarships reward the loyalty of undergraduate students who progress to enrol on a postgraduate degree with us. It's our way of saying thank you. Scholarships are worth up to 15% of tuition fees.
US Financial Aid
Direct subsidised and unsubsidised loans for US citizens, as well as Direct PLUS loans for eligible US citizens and Green Card holders administered by the US Department of Education (USED) for all eligible degree programmes offered at Regent’s University London.
Full details
Annual Tuition fee
Starting September 2020: £15,000
The fee for the part-time MSc Psychology is paid in two equal instalments of £7,500 each over the first two terms of the first year.
Non-refundable advance deposit
Home/EU students: £1,000
Non-EU students: £4,000
Non-EU students in receipt of US Federal Loans: £1,000
What do fees include?
Fees cover the cost of all tuition and access to the University’s IT infrastructure and library learning resources.
What other costs should I budget for?
You will need to budget additional funds for accommodation and living expenses, travel, and any additional trips and visits, that you choose to participate in outside of the tuition offered as part of the programme.
The library hold a limited number of copies of core text books and where possible in e-format. You will be encouraged to purchase your own text books and will need to budget approximately £80-£100 per year, depending on your programme of study.
When are fees paid?
Fees are payable in the following instalments:
- An initial non-refundable advance deposit paid when you accept your offer of a place
- The advance deposit is allocated against the first term’s fees
- Tuition fees (including fees for subsequent terms) are due two weeks in advance of classes commencing
Calculating fee increases
- The University sets tuition fees on an annual basis in line with the University's financial year which runs from 1 August to 31 July
- The fees quoted here are for one academic year of study
- Fees for subsequent years of study are subject to fee inflation
- The University aims to keep annual fee increases in line with the University’s cost inflation. The expectation is that this will be no greater than UK consumer price inflation (CPI) plus 3%. There are occasionally variations to this dictated by the costs of running specific programmes or facilities required for our programmes
- As a registered charity, all fee increases are subject to approval of the Trustee Board thus ensuring that affordability for our students remains a primary concern in any decisions regarding fee increases
You will be taught through a combination of:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Laboratory classes
- One-to-one tutorials
- Independent learning
Contact hours and expected workload
This is an example of the notional learning hours for 20 and 10-credit modules
| 20 credit module - 200 learning hours | 10 credit module - 100 learning hours | |
| Directed learning | 40 hours | 20 hours |
| Lectures | 20 hours | 20 hours |
| Laboratory classes | 20 hours | |
| Self-directed learning | 160 hours | 80 hours |
| Preparation for class | 20 hours | 10 hours |
| Self-study after class | 50 hours | 50 hours |
| Preparation for assessments | 40 hours | 10 hours |
| Assessments | 50 hours | 10 hours |
| Total | 200 | 100 |
This is an example of the notional learning hours for a 60-credit modules (dissertation)
| 60 credit module | 600 learning hours |
| Directed learning | 20 hours |
| Lectures | 20 hours |
| Collaborative Learning | 10 hours |
| Tutorials (1:1 and group) | 10 hours |
| Self-directed learning | 570 hours |
| Preparation for class | 10 hours |
| Self-study after class | 30 hours |
| Preparation for assessment | 380 hours |
| Assessment | 150 hours |
| Total | 600 |
Teaching staff
You will be taught by a team of experienced and well-qualified psychologists. The overall Head of Programmes is Professor G Neil Martin, author of one of the UK’s leading textbooks in Psychology. The Course Leader for the MSc Psychology is Dr Marina Rachitskiy, whose research field is forensic psychology. The programme is taught by additional specialist staff members in Psychology:
- Dr Cristina Costantini
- Dr Kevin Cheng
- Dr Alastair Davies
- Dr Carla Gibbes
- Professor Ken Gilhooly
- Professor G Neil Martin
- Dr Marina Rachitskiy
- Dr Leslie Van der Leer
- Dr Ros Watling
Methods of assessment
You will be assessed through a combination of:
- A 10,000 word dissertation
- Essays
- Examinations
- Group presentations
- Laboratory reports
- Research posters
Disability Support
We welcome and support students with a wide range of disabilities and health concerns. This includes learning difficulties, visual and hearing impairments, mental health difficulties, autism spectrum conditions, mobility difficulties, and temporary or chronic health conditions.
Our dedicated Disability Officer is here to support you. We ask that you speak with Student Registry and our Disability Officer as early as you can to enable us to support you. Find out more about our disability support and contact us.
Academic Requirements
A Regent’s education provides you with a high level of personal attention, and this begins from the moment you apply to study with us. We want to understand who you are and what your skills and interests may be – we are interested in your potential, as well as your prior achievements. We review each application comprehensively and on its individual merit, considering all of your skills, interests and attributes.
Typically, we will make an offer to a student holding a minimum lower second class (2:2) UK Honours undergraduate degree from a recognised institution and will assess your application for proficiency in Mathematics, asking for a GCSE Mathematics grade A-C / 9-4. Other equivalent international qualifications from recognised institutions will be accepted.
English Requirements
We require proof of English Proficiency. For example, we ask for:
- A completed Undergraduate degree studied in English from a majority English speaking country
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each individual component
This list is not exhaustive, we will review the English qualifications you have as part of your application and be in contact if we require anything further.
For applicants who wish to improve their English language proficiency, please see our English language courses.
Regent's English Password Test (REPT)
For offer holders able to visit us in London, we can provide an on-campus English diagnostic test known as the Regent’s English Password Test (REPT). This test must be arranged in advance. To find out more information and to book a test, please visit the REPT page. Please note, the REPT test will be free of charge until 31 May 2020. From 1 June 2020, there will be a £50 charge to take the REPT test.
On successful completion of this programme you will be eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society, which is a requirement for undertaking professional BPS postgraduate training programmes in psychology in the UK (e.g. training to become a clinical or educational or counselling psychologist).
Psychology as a subject is popular with employers across a range of areas from marketing through to civil service.