Psychological Research

The MSc in Psychological Research at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous training in the core methods and principles of psychological research. Designed for students aiming to develop strong methodological skills and deepen their understanding of psychological processes, this programme provides a solid foundation for further doctoral studies or careers in research, academia, or applied psychological fields. Throughout the course, students engage with advanced topics such as experimental design, statistical analysis, cognitive and behavioural psychology, and neuroscientific methods. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on research experience, allowing students to design, conduct, and analyze their own studies under the guidance of leading experts in the field. The programme also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, integrating insights from neuroscience, medicine, and social sciences to enrich understanding of complex psychological phenomena. Students benefit from Oxford’s extensive research facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and access to a vibrant academic community. The programme culminates in a research project or thesis, demonstrating the student’s ability to contribute original knowledge to the field of psychology. Graduates of this MSc are well-equipped with the technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and research experience necessary for pursuing a PhD or embarking on a professional career in psychological research, clinical practice, or related areas. The university’s distinguished faculty, collaborative environment, and commitment to academic excellence make the MSc in Psychological Research a premier choice for aspiring psychologists seeking to advance their expertise and impact in the field.

Applicants are strongly advised to visit the Medical Sciences Graduate School website to help them identify the most suitable course and supervisors.

The broad-based research training programme covers:

• behavioural neuroscience, from animal models to human functional imaging and TMS
• cognitive neuroscience, including MEG, EEG, neuropsychology
• developmental science, comprising Babylab studies and studies with children with developmental disorders
• social psychology and psychological disorders, focusing on inter-group behaviour, emotion, anxiety and post-traumatic stress

The course contains 9 modules which are taught at the University of Oxford. You will be required to pass 8 modules and the research project to be awarded the MSc. The course is taught through the attendance of seminars, lectures and workshops with some of the modules spanning two terms. The five core modules currently comprise:

• Research Evaluation
• Project Design
• Statistical Theory and Methods
• MATLAB Programming for Experimental Psychology
• Philosophical Foundations of Psychology

You will also undertake three of the four available optional modules, currently comprising:

• Emotion, Personality and Social Behaviour
• Language and Development
• Brain and Cognition
• Computer Modelling of Brain Function

The modules are assessed via written submissions, examinations and presentations. You will complete a research project consisting of a 10,000-word dissertation, submitted at the end of the course.

You are individually supervised for your research project and you will work on this project (dissertation) throughout the academic year. You will also meet with your academic advisors on an individual basis.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in psychology or a cognate discipline.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement: Up to 1,000 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers various funding options for students pursuing the MSc in Psychological Research. These include scholarships, grants, studentships, and external funding opportunities aimed at supporting postgraduate students in their academic and research endeavors. The university's central scholarships, such as the Clarendon Fund, provide full or partial financial support to outstanding applicants, regardless of nationality. Additionally, the Oxford Department of Experimental Psychology may have specific studentships or bursaries allocated to its postgraduate cohorts to assist with tuition fees and living expenses. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government-sponsored loans, national research councils, and charitable foundations, which may offer additional financial aid tailored to research training. Prospective applicants are advised to check the official university website and the Department of Experimental Psychology’s page for the most current information on available funding opportunities, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. The university also offers guidance and support services for financial planning and scholarship applications, ensuring that students are well-informed about all available resources to fund their studies. Overall, Oxford’s comprehensive financial aid framework aims to make postgraduate research education accessible and affordable, enabling talented students from diverse backgrounds to participate in world-class psychological research training.

The MSc in Psychological Research at the University of Oxford is a highly esteemed postgraduate program designed for students interested in advancing their understanding of psychological science through rigorous research training. This program offers an in-depth exploration of key areas within psychology, including cognitive, developmental, social, and biological psychology. Students have the opportunity to gain practical skills in experimental design, statistical analysis, and research methodology, preparing them for careers in academic research, industry, or further doctoral studies. The program is tailored to foster critical thinking and independent research capabilities, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to advancements in psychological science. Typically lasting one year full-time, the curriculum includes coursework, tutorials, and a substantial research project or thesis, supervised by leading experts in the field. Students also engage in seminars and workshops that cover current developments in psychology and related disciplines. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue PhDs or roles in research institutions, healthcare, education, and policy-making. Admission requirements generally include a strong undergraduate degree in psychology or a related discipline, a demonstrated aptitude for research, and relevant academic or research experience. The program is part of the University of Oxford's Department of Experimental Psychology, which boasts state-of-the-art laboratories and resources to support student research. The academic environment emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and the development of transferable skills that are valuable across various career avenues. Participation in this program offers not only comprehensive training in psychological research principles but also the opportunity to become part of Oxford’s vibrant academic community, engaged in cutting-edge scientific inquiry.