MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
MSc Psychology of Mental Health
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, offers a comprehensive MSc Psychology of Mental Health program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the psychological aspects of mental health and well-being. This postgraduate degree critically examines the theoretical foundations, research methodologies, and practical applications within the field, preparing graduates for a range of professional roles or further doctoral study. The program focuses on current issues and debates in mental health, including the challenges and opportunities within mental health service provision. It aims to develop students' analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling them to apply psychological principles to promote mental well-being, prevent mental health problems, and support individuals experiencing psychological distress across diverse populations and settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Psychology of Mental Health at St. Mary's is structured to offer a robust understanding of the field. While specific module titles are best confirmed directly with the university, typical components of such a program include: "Research Methods and Statistics," which equips students with essential research skills for the mental health field; modules focusing on "Psychological Approaches to Mental Health," exploring various theoretical models of mental illness and therapeutic interventions; "Child and Adolescent Mental Health"; "Lifespan Development and Mental Health," examining mental health across different age groups; and "Community Psychology and Mental Health Promotion." Other modules might delve into specific conditions, such as anxiety and depression, or specialized topics like the impact of trauma. The program culminates in a "Dissertation" or an "Applied Research Project," allowing students to conduct independent research in a specialized area of mental health psychology.
Research Focus: The Psychology department at St. Mary's University has a strong research focus that directly informs the MSc Psychology of Mental Health program. Research within the department often spans areas such as health psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and developmental psychology, with clear applications to mental health. The Centre for Wellbeing in Education is a key research hub within the university that has a strong alignment with mental health and well-being. Academic staff are actively engaged in research projects, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and contributing to national and international conferences on topics related to mental health, psychological interventions, resilience, and well-being across the lifespan. This active research environment ensures that the curriculum is informed by the latest scientific findings and promotes evidence-based practice.
Industry Engagement: St. Mary's University emphasizes practical application and industry relevance within its MSc Psychology of Mental Health program. While formal, mandatory external placements are not typically a core component of this type of MSc unless it leads directly to a professional qualification (which is often not the case for a standalone MSc in Psychology of Mental Health), the program is designed to prepare students for professional roles in the mental health sector. Lecturers often have practical experience in clinical psychology, counselling, or mental health services, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. The curriculum may involve case studies, simulated scenarios, and engagement with current professional debates. The skills developed, such as research, critical analysis, and understanding of mental health frameworks, are highly valued by employers in various mental health and related fields.
Global Perspective: The MSc Psychology of Mental Health program at St. Mary's University incorporates a global perspective by addressing mental health issues that are universally experienced, though often influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. The curriculum examines mental health models and interventions that are applied internationally, encouraging students to consider the global burden of mental illness and the diverse approaches to care delivery in different countries. Discussions may involve comparative mental health policies, cross-cultural variations in mental health presentation, and the global initiatives to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma. By understanding mental health through a broad lens, graduates are better prepared to work in diverse contexts, contribute to global mental health initiatives, or conduct research with international relevance.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 18450
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 60.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
An MSc in Psychology of Mental Health from St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, equips graduates with a profound understanding of mental health theory, research, and practical applications. This specialized postgraduate degree focuses on developing advanced analytical, critical thinking, and research skills, essential for navigating the complexities of mental health and well-being across diverse populations. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares individuals for impactful roles in mental health service provision, public health, research, or as a stepping stone to further professional training in psychology. Graduates emerge with the expertise to contribute meaningfully to improving mental health outcomes and promoting well-being in various settings.
Assistant Psychologist: Providing support to qualified psychologists in clinical, forensic, or educational settings. This role often involves conducting assessments, assisting with interventions, and collecting data, and is a common stepping stone towards doctoral training for qualified psychologist roles.
Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP): Working within NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services to deliver low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) interventions for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression.
Mental Health Support Worker/Practitioner: Providing direct support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges in community mental health teams, charities, or residential settings, focusing on recovery, social inclusion, and practical assistance.
Research Assistant/Associate: Contributing to mental health research projects at universities, research institutes, or healthcare organizations, focusing on areas such as the causes of mental illness, effectiveness of interventions, or mental health policy.
Health Promotion Specialist: Working for public health bodies or charities to develop and implement initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being and preventing mental health problems within communities, workplaces, or educational settings.
Counselling Skills Practitioner (further training may be required): Utilizing advanced counselling skills gained from the MSc to provide support in various settings, such as educational institutions, employee assistance programs, or voluntary organizations. Note that further professional training and accreditation would be required to become a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist.
Charity Sector Professional: Working for mental health charities in roles such as project coordinator, advocacy officer, fundraising, or communications, contributing to their mission of supporting individuals with mental health conditions.
Lecturer/Educator (with further study): With a passion for academia and possibly further doctoral study (PhD), teaching psychology or mental health-related subjects at universities or colleges.
Occupational Health Advisor (with relevant experience/additional training): Focusing on employee well-being in the workplace, providing support and advice on mental health issues, stress management, and creating mentally healthy work environments.
PhD Candidate/Researcher: Continuing academic development by pursuing a PhD in a specialized area of mental health psychology, with the aim of contributing to advanced research and knowledge creation in the field.
