StudyQA — Master: Occupational Psychology — University of the West of England (Page 160)

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Description Contents Requirements

Occupational Psychology at the University of the West of England is a comprehensive and dynamic programme designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to enhance workplace productivity, well-being, and organizational effectiveness. This postgraduate course offers an in-depth exploration of the psychological principles that underpin employee behavior, organizational culture, and human resource practices. Throughout the programme, students will examine topics such as organizational development, staff selection and assessment, leadership, motivation, and employee well-being, applying psychological theories to real-world workplace challenges. The curriculum is structured to blend academic rigor with practical application, incorporating case studies, research projects, and opportunities for work-based learning. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills as they learn to design, implement, and evaluate interventions aimed at improving workplace environments and employee performance. The programme also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of diversity and inclusion within organizational settings. With a focus on contemporary issues in occupational psychology, the course prepares graduates for careers in consultancy, human resources, organizational development, and research. The university’s strong links with industry partners and professional bodies ensure that students are exposed to current trends and practices, facilitating seamless integration into the workforce upon graduation. The programme provides a supportive learning environment with access to experienced lecturers, well-equipped facilities, and opportunities for networking and professional development. Graduates of the Occupational Psychology course will be well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to organizational success, fostering healthier, more productive workplaces, and advancing their careers in this rapidly evolving field.

The course covers the core areas of the BPS curriculum in Occupational Psychology. The core modules are:

Leadership, Engagement and Motivation - This module examines theories of work motivation, engagement and satisfaction, and how they relate to engagement and performance at work. We also study issues around leadership, and what makes a successful leader within organisations.
Learning, Training and Development - How do individuals learn and develop skills and competencies in the context of work and organisations? We focus on the effectiveness of work-based training, understanding development at work and training needs.
Wellbeing and Work - Here we integrate links between work and individual and organisational wellbeing, focusing on issues such as stress and burnout, how to promote wellbeing at work, and the individual and organisational factors that come into play.
Psychological Assessment at Work - This module focuses on an understanding of theory and practice in applying psychological assessment techniques in the workplace. These can be used in assessment centres for selection, or to identify talent or develop skills within organisations.
Work Design, Organisational Change and Organisational Development - Here we take a closer look at the design of working environments and how organisations change and develop. We widen the perspective in occupational psychology to take into account the impact of globalisation.
Applying Psychology to Work and Organisations - This module allows you to reflect on the skills and competencies you've learnt throughout the course. The module focuses on evidence-based practice and specific tools and techniques for gathering, analysing and feeding back data in organisational contexts.
Dissertation in Psychology for the MSc route - This module gives students the opportunity to conduct a large-scale, in-depth research project into a psychological issue of organisational or business relevance.
Conducting and Evaluating Psychological Research - Here you learn and develop the key skills in understanding, evaluating and conducting psychological research that generates quantitative and qualitative data. This supports your dissertation, but also your understanding of the science behind psychology in organisations.

You should have either:

an honours degree awarded by a UK institute of higher education of at least lower second status, in Psychology or a relevant subject
an honours degree in Psychology and be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) for membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS)
qualifications deemed equivalent by the Course Leader

In order to be eligible to progress from the MSc to Stage 2 training in Occupational Psychology and become a Chartered Occupational Psychologist you must have GBC status. Applicants that do not have GBC status would not be eligible, under current BPS and HCPC arrangements, to go on to Chartered Psychologist status. This may change in future. Please contact the BPS or the HCPC for further advice.

If you have gained your degree from abroad you may be eligible for GBC and you should contact the BPS to clarify this. In many cases this can be a time consuming process so it is advisable to complete these enquiries prior to applying for the MSc, and well in advance of the application deadline to ensure your application can be considered for September entry.

You must have a good honours degree in Psychology or a related discipline. In exceptional circumstances, applicants with substantive relevant work experience or further training and a strong academic background will be considered.