MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MSc Psychology Conversion
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Reading offers a variety of graduate and postgraduate programs, one of the most notable being the MSc Psychology Conversion course. This program is designed specifically for individuals who have a background in a non-psychology discipline but wish to pursue a career in psychology. The MSc Psychology Conversion provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in further academic study or professional psychology roles. The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), which is essential for those wishing to pursue a career as a psychologist in the UK.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Psychology Conversion at the University of Reading is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of various branches of psychology, including biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. It includes modules on research methods, psychological testing, and ethics, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. The course is structured to provide a balance between lectures, seminars, and practical training, ensuring that students gain a well-rounded education. Students will also have the opportunity to work on a research project, allowing them to explore an area of interest in depth.
Research Focus: The University of Reading is renowned for its strong research culture, with faculty members actively involved in advancing knowledge in psychology and other disciplines. The university’s research is focused on real-world applications, including health, education, business, and the environment. In psychology, the research focuses on areas such as cognitive neuroscience, mental health, and developmental psychology, contributing to innovations that improve people’s lives. Students in the MSc Psychology Conversion program benefit from being part of a research-driven environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for collaboration with leading experts in the field.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading has strong links with industry and professional organizations, which enhance the learning experience for students. Through partnerships with healthcare providers, businesses, and research institutions, the university ensures that its students gain exposure to real-world challenges and opportunities. The MSc Psychology Conversion program includes opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, internships, and networking events. These connections not only enrich the students' learning experience but also improve their employability upon graduation, offering them pathways to work in diverse sectors such as mental health services, education, research, and human resources.
Global Perspective: The University of Reading is internationally recognized for its diverse and inclusive environment, attracting students from over 150 countries. The MSc Psychology Conversion program draws on global perspectives to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of psychology in different cultural and social contexts. The university encourages collaboration among students from various backgrounds, fostering an international learning community. This global outlook equips graduates with the skills to work in diverse, multicultural environments, making them more adaptable and prepared for careers that may involve working across borders or with international organizations.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 30950
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
Graduating from the MSc Psychology Conversion program at the University of Reading offers diverse career prospects across a variety of sectors. The knowledge, skills, and practical experience gained during the program make students highly employable.
Clinical Psychologist: One of the most common career paths for MSc Psychology Conversion graduates is to pursue a career as a Clinical Psychologist. This involves working with individuals experiencing mental health issues, emotional difficulties, or behavioral disorders. To become a Clinical Psychologist in the UK, graduates must complete further training, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, which is highly competitive. The University of Reading's program provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to pursue this advanced training.
Educational Psychologist: For those interested in working with children and young adults, a career as an Educational Psychologist could be ideal. Educational Psychologists work in schools, educational settings, and with children and families to assess and support learning and behavioral difficulties. Further training is required, but the MSc Psychology Conversion provides a solid base for those who wish to enter this area.
Health Psychologist: Health Psychologists focus on how psychological factors influence physical health and wellness. They work in hospitals, clinics, or research organizations to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve patient outcomes. Graduates of the MSc Psychology Conversion can pursue a career in health psychology by completing specialized training programs in the field.
Occupational Psychologist: Occupational Psychologists apply psychological principles to the workplace, focusing on improving performance, productivity, and well-being in organizational settings. This may involve working on issues such as employee motivation, job satisfaction, and leadership development. Occupational psychologists are highly sought after in sectors such as business, human resources, and consulting.
Counseling Psychologist: Counseling Psychologists provide support to individuals facing personal difficulties, such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. They work in a variety of settings, including private practice, healthcare, and community services. Graduates of the MSc Psychology Conversion program who are interested in this field will need to pursue further training and accreditation.
Researcher in Psychology: For those interested in the academic or research side of psychology, the MSc Psychology Conversion can serve as a stepping stone to further study, such as a PhD in Psychology. Research opportunities may include working in universities, healthcare settings, or private research organizations. Graduates can focus on areas such as cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, or developmental psychology.
Human Resources and Recruitment: Many psychology graduates choose to apply their understanding of human behavior in the business world, particularly in human resources (HR) and recruitment. A background in psychology helps HR professionals to understand employee behavior, motivation, and interpersonal dynamics. Graduates of the MSc Psychology Conversion program can pursue HR roles in recruitment, training, and employee development.
Social Worker: With a solid foundation in psychology, graduates can work in social work, focusing on the well-being of individuals and communities. This may involve supporting vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. Additional training in social work would be required, but the MSc Psychology Conversion provides the psychological knowledge necessary for this career.
Forensic Psychologist: Forensic Psychologists work at the intersection of psychology and law, applying psychological principles to criminal justice settings. They assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and work in correctional facilities to help rehabilitate offenders. This career path requires further study and training, but the MSc Psychology Conversion offers the foundational knowledge needed to pursue it.
Mental Health Support Worker: Some MSc Psychology Conversion graduates choose to work directly in mental health services, providing support to individuals with mental health conditions. These roles involve assisting patients in managing their conditions, supporting their emotional needs, and working alongside healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
