Health Psychology

The MSc in Health Psychology at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the psychological factors that influence health, illness, and healthcare. This comprehensive programme is designed for students who aspire to understand the complex interactions between psychological processes and health-related behaviors, as well as to develop practical skills for research and intervention in health settings. Through a combination of theoretical foundations and applied training, students will gain insights into how psychological principles can be used to promote health, prevent disease, and improve healthcare delivery.

The curriculum includes core modules such as Psychological Perspectives on Health and Illness, Research Methods in Health Psychology, and Health Psychology Interventions. These courses provide students with a solid grounding in the scientific methods used to study health behaviors and the development of evidence-based interventions. In addition, optional modules allow for specialization in areas such as chronic illness management, behavioral change, and health inequalities.

Research is a key component of the programme, with students engaging in independent projects that address real-world health challenges. The programme is delivered by leading experts in the field, offering students the opportunity to learn from practitioners involved in cutting-edge research and clinical practice. Practical training covers skills such as program evaluation, qualitative and quantitative research techniques, and the design of health promotion campaigns.

The MSc in Health Psychology prepares graduates for careers in healthcare settings, research institutions, public health organizations, and policy development. It also provides a solid foundation for those intending to pursue further study, such as a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or other health-related advanced degrees. With access to UCL’s extensive resources and networks, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to improving health outcomes and advancing knowledge in health psychology.

The programme is regularly reviewed by an advisory board including world-renowned experts in health psychology. It provides a thorough grounding in theories, concepts and empirical findings central to current health psychology. Students are encouraged to develop their own area of specialisation, and are given formal training in quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

• Effective Research Practice
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods 1
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods 2
• Health-related Behaviours and Cognitions
• Individual, Social and Cultural Perspectives in Health Psychology
• Stress, Mental Health and Ageing
• Chronic Illness from the Health Psychology Perspective
• Health Care and Intervention Delivery

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation written up as a mock paper submission to the British Journal of Health Psychology.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, class exercises, project work, training workshops, journal clubs and hands-on computer-based teaching on statistical analysis techniques. Assessment is through coursework (including critical reviews and essays), one unseen examination and the research project. Students are also offered a short work placement.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in psychology from a UK university, or overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A lower second-class UK Bachelor's degree or equivalent may be accepted with evidence of further study or relevant work experience. 
Applicants must have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS) if they want to pursue a career as a Chartered Health Psychologist in the UK.

Wellcome Trust Scholarship

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

Health Psychology at University College London offers a comprehensive exploration of psychological theories and approaches applied to health, illness, and healthcare. The program is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of how psychological factors influence health behaviors, the development and management of illnesses, and how psychological interventions can support health improvement and illness prevention. The curriculum blends foundational psychology with specialized content related to health, emphasizing evidence-based practices, research methods, and clinical applications. Students will study topics such as the psychological aspects of chronic illness, health behavior change, stress and coping mechanisms, health inequalities, and the psychological impact of medical treatments. The program also emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to critically evaluate scientific literature and undertake their own research projects, often with real-world health applications. Taught by expert faculty with extensive experience in health psychology, the program provides opportunities for practical applications, including internships and collaborations with healthcare organizations, where students can gain valuable hands-on experience. The program typically attracts students interested in careers in clinical health psychology, research, healthcare policy, or working within medical settings to improve patient care and health outcomes. The program's structure includes core modules, optional modules tailored to individual interests, and a dissertation project that synthesizes learning and practical research. Entry requirements usually demand a relevant undergraduate degree, such as psychology or related disciplines, along with strong academic grades. The program benefits from UCL’s vibrant research environment, access to cutting-edge facilities, and connections with leading health organizations, preparing graduates for further academic pursuits or professional roles in health psychology and related fields.