MSc in Research Methods in Psychology

Gain expert training in advanced psychology research methods and carry out basic and applied research projects in a wide range of areas with this Master’s degree course.

You will learn to use a range of research tools, such as databases, statistical software, and computer programmes and develop extensive practical research skills to apply in any context where human behaviour is important.

You will develop a keen understanding of the nature and limitations of the scientific method and the main alternatives, alongside a knowledge of the historical, theoretical, and philosophical issues underlying psychological and behavioural science.

Why Research Methods in Psychology at Swansea?

Our Psychology department has an outstanding reputation both in the UK and internationally. According to the Research Excellence Framework 2014, we are one of only four psychology departments in the UK to achieve a 100% 4* rating (maximum score possible) for the reach and significance of our work.

We are also ranked 2nd in the UK for Graduate Prospects by The Times and Sunday Times University League Tables 2019.

Our state-of-the-art research facilities include a high-density electroencephalography (EEG) suite, a fully fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, plus more than 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Your Research Methods in Psychology Experience

Our wide range of optional modules means that you can tailor your studies to your particular interests and goals for further study.

Based on our College of Human and Health Sciences, you will benefit from a diverse teaching and research environment, with many opportunities to make connections across disciplines.

Many of our academic staff are leaders in their specialist fields of research, including clinical and health psychology, brain injury, sleep, cognition, neuroscience and developmental psychology.

You will be joining a university that is ranked first in the UK for postgraduate student satisfaction (What Uni 2017).

Research Methods in Psychology Careers

A Master’s degree in Research Methods in Psychology opens up career opportunities in research in various fields not only in psychology but also in a range of social and health sciences. It also provides a solid academic foundation for further study and training in professional and applied areas of psychology.

How You're Taught

Teaching is delivered through a unique mix of small group seminars, workshops, lectures and practical classes. You will have regular support from the team and one-to-one teaching support from demonstrators for technical subjects.

We assess learning through written coursework and reports of empirical projects carried out individually and in groups.

Swansea University was named University of the Year in the 2019 Whatuni Student Choice Awards for the second time in five years. As well as being crowned University of the Year, Swansea University took the top spot in the International category and placed top three in the Postgraduate, and Course and Lecturers categories. The Whatuni Student Choice Awards are voted for entirely by students, with more than 41,000 reviews and comments submitted from more than 160 UK institutions.

In the prestigious Guardian University Guide 2021, we are placed 24th in the UK and have won the Welsh University of the Year title for the second time in three years, cementing our position as Wales’ leading higher education institution.

We place our students at the heart of everything. As a result, we achieved a gold rating, the highest rating possible, in the national Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) and are ranked 6th in the UK for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey for 2020.

Our stunning waterfront campuses make us a desirable location for students and staff from around the world, and our multicultural community provides a global perspective, enabling those who join us to develop skills and knowledge that set them on successful and enriching careers.