Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Psychology
Introduction
The MSc in Applied Psychology will appeal to psychology graduates who wish to pursue a professional career or undertake further professional postgraduate training in psychology. The programme has been designed to provide students with relevant skills for future professional and educational roles. The content will encourage students to seek out the meaning of issues and critically appraise rather than focus solely on facts and concepts. The importance of ethics, integrity and respect as well as the cultural diversity and inclusiveness within both the profession and varied environs, such as clinics, education and occupational contexts will be stressed. Therefore, this programme aims to encourage the student to critically reflect on the work of professional psychologists, whether in practice or research. In addition, the MSc will enable students to study within a research focused environment and further develop their knowledge and skills in the quantitative and qualitative methodologies through a supervised research dissertation. Within the dissertation the student will explore practical issues of interest to applied psychology using various research designs and analysis.
Key Features of the MSc in Applied Psychology - The MSc in Applied Psychology has been designed for psychology graduates (Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and British Psychological Society (BPS) Accredited) who wish to pursue further professional postgraduate training, or a professional career in psychology
- The programme will be of interest to those who wish to develop their understanding of ethical issues, therapeutic approaches, treatments in regards to their current work practices including Mental Health and Social Care Professionals, Voluntary and Community Sector employees, Psychological Assistants/Associates and those currently working in research.
- It will also be of interest for those who wish to obtain further knowledge and training of research methodology and practical skills applied to clinical settings
- This programme will provide a valuable foundation or pathway for those seeking further professional training.
- It will aid graduates in gaining employment in the area of psychology.
Programme Structure
The programme comprises two sequential stages. In stage 1 students take 4 mandatory modules and 3 elective modules (from a choice of 8 elective modules). Stage 2 (the Master’s stage) comprises the dissertation.
Full-time For full-time students the duration of the programme is over 1 year. The taught modules cover semesters 1 and 2 (October to May). Independent research is pursued during semester 3 (May to August).
Part-time For part-time students, the duration of the programme is over 2 years. Delivery of the programme is structured over 2 semesters in year 1, and 3 semesters in year 2; students are normally required to attend lectures on two evenings per week. The mandatory modules enable the student to advance their research skills and to provide an insight into the role, issues and ethics within Applied Psychology, while the electives provide students with the relevant knowledge of a variety of specialised disciplines within the area of Applied Psychology.
Optional Occupational Testing Students can also complete an optional BPS accredited EFPA occupational testing level 1, level 2 and Level 3 in the summer break between Years 1 and 2. Payment in relation to occupational testing is not included in the course fee and is not delivered by DBS. Assessment Methods
Throughout the course, modules are assessed by either a combination of continuous assessment and examinations, or by continuous assessment alone. Continuous assessment will vary in style and purpose from module to module, depending upon the nature of the subject material and the teaching and learning objectives of the module. Assessments may include essays, multiple-choice questionnaire, short-answer in-class exams, oral presentation, and group work and poster presentations. Examinations are typically held in January and late April/May.
Careers
Successful graduates may progress to further postgraduate training or professional training within psychology; as this course provides valuable insight, knowledge and research skills that will equip the graduate to pursue professional training. In addition, students will be equipped with the specialised knowledge and skills that will enable them to pursue successful, responsible, and useful careers within research fields in health, social care setting and education. Entry Requirements To be considered for admission, applicants must: - Hold a minimum Upper Second Class Honours (2.1) in Psychology accredited by the PSI or the BPS
- Or show eligibility for accreditation by the PSI or the BPS (the college may accept a Lower Second Class Honours (2:2) award in Psychology on the basis of an interview)
- Or hold a primary degree in a noncognate discipline together with a minimum Second Class Honours (2:1) in a Higher Diploma in Psychology accredited by the PSI or the BPS or show eligibility for accreditation by the PSI or the BPS
- Have an IELTS score of a minimum of 6.5 or equivalent, where fulltime study has been conducted in a language other than English or applicants whose first language is not English.
Programme Content
Stage 1
| - Advanced Research and Statistical Methods 1
- Professional Issues and Ethics
- Advanced Research and Statistical Methods 2
- Research Seminars Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (Elective)
- Clinical Health Psychology and Public Well-being (Elective)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Elective)
- Psychology Applied to Work (Elective) Psychometrics (Elective)
- Applied Behavioural Analysis (Elective) Advanced Neuropsychology (Elective)
- Understanding Addiction (Elective)
| Stage 2
| MSc Award | Please note: This Programme is subject to validation. Modules are subject to change. Learner protection for this programme is provided in accordance with Section 43 of the Qualifications (Education and Training ) Act 1999.
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