Education — Psychology

The MSc in Education and Psychology at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between educational processes and psychological principles. This programme is designed for graduates interested in exploring the cognitive, emotional, and social factors that influence learning, development, and well-being across diverse populations and settings. Students will engage with cutting-edge research and theoretical frameworks in psychology, educational sciences, and related disciplines, equipping them with the skills necessary to analyze educational practices, develop effective interventions, and contribute to policy development. The course curriculum includes modules on cognitive development, learning theories, assessment and evaluation, educational psychology, and research methods. Practical experience is emphasized through opportunities for postgraduate research projects, internships, and collaborations with educational institutions. The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in educational psychology, research, policy analysis, and consultancy, as well as for further academic study. With access to UCL’s world-renowned faculty and resources, students will benefit from a stimulating academic environment that encourages critical thinking, innovation, and professional growth. The MSc in Education and Psychology is suitable for individuals passionate about improving educational outcomes, fostering positive psychological development, and making meaningful contributions to educational sectors and mental health services worldwide.

Students develop understanding of the current issues in the psychology of education and have opportunity to engage in research. On successful completion of the programme students should be able to produce and communicate reasoned and informed argument, both in writing and orally. Students will also be able to critically evaluate theory and evidence in psychology.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits), or three optional modules (90 credits) and a report (30 credits).

Core modules

• Core Topics in the Psychology of Education
• Methodology and Statistics

Optional modules

Students choose two optional modules either from the list below and/or from the wide range of Master's-level modules across the IOE offering:

• Atypical Development
• Cognitive Development and Learning
• Development Psychology and Psychobiology
• Issues in Educational Neuroscience
• Language Development
• Literacy Development
• Personality and Social Psychology in Education
• Psychological Aspects of Counselling
• Reading and Spelling Difficulties
• Social Development

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates either in a dissertation of 10,000-12,000 words or a report of 6,000-7,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures given by both IOE academic staff and guest speakers, student preparation of tasks and longer presentations, group work, discussion, computer workshops giving hands-on practice. Assessment is through coursework and one two-hour unseen examination. Coursework can involve small exercises, critiques of set research articles and extended pieces of writing on set topics, and the dissertation.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in psychology or a related discipline (for example, education, social science, cognitive science, speech/communication science or neuroscience). If the degree does not contain any psychology components, there is a Skype interview to determine suitability for the programme.

The University College London offers a variety of funding options for students pursuing the Education — Psychology program. Applicants are encouraged to explore a range of financial support schemes to assist with tuition fees and living expenses throughout their studies. UCL provides scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and specific eligibility criteria, which are available for both home and international students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, enabling students to focus more on their academic and research pursuits. Additionally, students may have access to government funding schemes, such as student loans and maintenance grants, depending on their residency status and nationality. The university also collaborates with external organizations and charities that offer bursaries, grants, and fellowships tailored to students studying psychology and related fields. International students are advised to investigate visa-specific funding options, which may include work-study opportunities or sponsored research projects. UCL’s dedicated financial aid office provides comprehensive advice and assistance, helping students identify the most suitable funding sources for their circumstances. Prospective students should carefully review application deadlines and eligibility requirements for each funding opportunity, as well as the terms and conditions attached. It is recommended to start the funding application process early, ideally before program commencement, to maximize the chances of securing financial support. Furthermore, some students may consider part-time work, both on-campus and off-campus, to supplement their income during their studies. UCL also offers guidance on budgeting and financial planning to ensure that students manage their resources effectively throughout their academic journey. Overall, while the cost of studying at UCL can be substantial, the extensive range of available funding options aims to make the Education — Psychology program accessible to a diverse student body, supporting academic excellence and research innovation in the field.

The MSc in Psychology at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students interested in advanced psychological research and understanding. This program provides a thorough grounding in core areas of psychology, including cognitive, developmental, personality, social, and biological psychology. It emphasizes the development of research skills and critical thinking, preparing students for a variety of careers in psychological research, further postgraduate study, or applied psychology fields.

Students enrolled in the program have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, allowing them to engage in hands-on experiments and data collection. The curriculum typically combines taught modules with independent research projects, encouraging a deep engagement with scientific methods and statistical analysis. The program may also include optional courses or modules that allow students to specialize in specific areas such as clinical psychology, health psychology, or neuropsychology, depending on their interests and career goals.

The program is designed to foster an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from biology, cognition, and social sciences. The faculty involved in teaching and supervision are leading experts in their fields, offering students mentorship and guidance throughout their research projects. Some programs also organize seminars, workshops, and conferences, providing opportunities for networking with professionals and academics in the field of psychology.

Graduates of this MSc are well-equipped to pursue further academic qualifications, such as a PhD in psychology or related disciplines, or to enter fields such as mental health services, occupational psychology, research, or policy-making. The program aligns with UCL’s reputation for research excellence and commitment to advancing psychological knowledge and its practical applications. Admission requirements generally include a bachelor's degree with a strong background in psychology or a related discipline and may also require relevant research experience or interests.

Overall, the MSc in Psychology at UCL offers a rigorous and enriching environment for students passionate about understanding the human mind and behavior, equipping them with the knowledge, research skills, and professional competencies necessary for a variety of careers in psychology and related fields.