Psychology - Conversion Course

This masters programme offers you the opportunity to gain your first qualification accredited by the British Psychological Society. You’ll develop a comprehensive and critical understanding of the key concepts, theories, methods and debates in psychology. This will include critically examining how psychological theories and research methodologies are applied in real world settings and assessing different kinds of evidence from quantitative and qualitative data. You’ll also gain an awareness of the importance of ethical issues in the practice of psychology. By completing this rigorous masters degree, you’ll build your numeracy, literacy, communication, team working, presentation, observational, cognitive and organisational skills as appropriate to the discipline.

Key features of the course
• Builds your knowledge and understanding of a broad range of core topics in psychology.
• Gives you an appreciation of different perspectives within psychology and the ability to evaluate them critically.
• Accredited by the British Psychological Society and the first step to becoming a psychologist.
• Gain valuable analytical and communication skills that will enhance your employability.

How long it takes
You will be able to complete this masters qualification within two years by studying one module each year. This will require you to be able to devote 25 hours each week to your studies.

Subjects taught

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits from the following:
Compulsory modules
Critically exploring psychology 1 (D810) 90 Credits - Next start: 07 Sep 2024
Critically exploring psychology 2 (D811) 90 - Credits Next start : 07 Sep 2024

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

For module details please see "Course Web Page".

Entry requirements

The MSc in Psychology (Conversion) is only open to students who don't already hold an undergraduate degree which gives eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (BPS).

You must hold a UK honours degree (2:2 at least) or equivalent to be accepted. Your first degree need not be in psychology, but you must have the skills expected of a social sciences graduate.

This qualification has a required study order. All students will begin with the postgraduate module, Critically exploring psychology 1 (D810). This module will help equip you with the requisite skills needed to undertake postgraduate-level study, but it does not offer remedial training for those who have an unsuitable bachelors degree or inadequate experience. You will have the opportunity to study with a cohort of peers throughout, while the modules and assessments build on one another systematically.

You must be able to:
• write accurately, clearly and concisely
• read large quantities of text quickly, accurately and critically
• classify evidence precisely and assess its value and reliability
• argue logically and consistently
• select and interpret evidence to support a logical argument.

Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 6.5 under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Duration

2 years

Enrolment dates

See Course Web Page link for next start date.

Post Course Info

Career relevance
Careers as a professional psychologist in the applied areas of psychology will require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree – for which this course provides ideal preparation.

The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) regulated titles include:
• clinical psychologist
• counselling psychologist
• educational psychologist
• forensic psychologist
• health psychologist
• occupational psychologist
• sports and exercise psychologist.

As well as the specific knowledge gained from studying this masters degree, you'll develop many transferable and work-related skills that are highly valued by employers.