Psychology and Education

The MPhil in Psychology and Education at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth intellectually rigorous programme designed for students interested in the complex interactions between psychological processes and educational practices. This interdisciplinary degree provides a comprehensive understanding of the psychological theories and research methods that underpin educational settings, allowing students to critically analyze learning processes, development, motivation, and behavioral challenges within diverse educational contexts. The programme combines core modules in psychology, such as cognitive development, motivation, and social psychology, with specialized coursework in education, including policies, pedagogical strategies, and assessment techniques. Students will engage with contemporary research, participate in seminars, and undertake independent projects that foster analytical and research skills essential for careers in academia, policy-making, or educational practice. The programme also emphasizes the application of psychological principles to improve educational outcomes and support learners with special needs or psychological difficulties. Delivered by world-renowned researchers and practitioners, the course benefits from Cambridge’s rich academic environment, offering a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge developments in psychology and education. Students will have access to extensive resources, including libraries, laboratories, and collaborative research opportunities, enabling them to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. The interdisciplinary approach encourages a broad perspective, preparing graduates to contribute to policy development, enhance educational practices, or pursue doctoral research. Over the course of the programme, students will enhance their critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills, equipping them with the tools necessary to make meaningful impacts in education and psychological research. With flexible pathways including the possibility of part-time study, the MPhil in Psychology and Education aims to foster innovative thinkers capable of addressing the challenges faced by educational systems worldwide.

ou will have 64 hours of thematic route sessions in Psychology and Education. There are 5 core topics providing an introduction to key ideas, theories and research:

• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Biological Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Individual Differences
• Additional elements will support your development of research skills: practical work in psychology (for BPS students only), research seminars, quantitative data analysis, research workshops and a research thesis.

In addition to the above, you will attend the Research Methods Strand (see below) where you will also mix with students and staff from other specialisms within the Faculty . Most of your interactions will be with other students and academic staff within the Psychology and Education route.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

Extra Materials

Please note: If you are applying for the 1-year full time MPhil or the 2-year part time MEd, please complete the task below.  This route is not open to PGCE-MEd applicants.

Choose an area of interest to you in psychology and discuss it in relation to education.  In writing this short essay (1500-2000 words), please refer explicitly to relevant theoretical or empirical publications using a critical and reflective lens.  Essays beyond the word limit will not be accepted.

If you are interested in our BPS Accredited Course, please complete the attached form.

Please upload this with your other application documents. Applications cannot be considered unless the written work has been received.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Cambridge offers a range of funding options for students enrolled in its Psychology and Education programs. Prospective students can explore various avenues of financial support, including scholarships, bursaries, grants, and loans, designed to assist with tuition fees and living expenses. The university provides several prestigious scholarships specifically for international students, such as the Cambridge International Scholarships and the Gates Cambridge Scholarships, which are highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential. Additionally, students may be eligible for departmental funding, which includes research grants and studentships that support both taught and research components of the degree.

Financial aid also extends through external organizations and government schemes, with opportunities for students to apply for student loans in their home countries, where applicable, to cover educational costs at Cambridge. Some funding options are need-based, requiring applicants to demonstrate financial necessity, while others are merit-based, rewarding exceptional academic achievement. The university's dedicated financial support office offers guidance on applying for funding and advice on managing study costs.

Students are encouraged to apply early for funding, as many scholarships have specific deadlines and limited places. Moreover, work opportunities such as teaching assistantships and research assistant positions may be available to help offset living costs during the course of study. Cambridge also publishes comprehensive guides and resources for potential applicants to understand their funding options thoroughly. Overall, the university aims to make its programs accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds through its extensive financial support system.

The University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive program in Psychology and Education designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of psychological theories and practices as they relate to educational contexts. The course aims to equip students with the skills to analyze and interpret psychological principles, and apply these insights to improve educational processes, policies, and practices. The program combines rigorous coursework in psychology—covering areas such as developmental, cognitive, social, and biological psychology—with specialized training in education, including pedagogical theories, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and educational research methods. Students will have opportunities to participate in practical placements, research projects, and seminars led by leading academics in the field, fostering a strong connection between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, empirical research skills, and reflective practices, preparing graduates for careers in educational psychology, educational policy, teaching, or further academic research. The program is suitable for individuals interested in understanding the psychological underpinnings of learning and development, as well as those committed to improving educational outcomes through evidence-based practices. The course duration, structure, and specific modules may vary, but typically, students engage in a combination of lectures, tutorials, project work, and placements, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Upon successful completion, graduates will be awarded a Master’s degree in Psychology and Education, which is recognized internationally and provides a solid foundation for professional progression within educational and psychological fields. The university’s vibrant academic community and its collaborative environment ensure that students are engaged with frontier research and innovative teaching methods, fostering a dynamic learning experience that prepares them for diverse roles in academia, education sectors, and beyond.