Psychology of Education

The Psychology of Education MSc will introduce students to key theoretical issues in the psychology of education, critically analysing psychological theory and research, and exploring its contribution to educational issues and practice. It is intended for people who wish to gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership so that they can proceed to professional training as an educational or other psychologist.

This programme aims to equip students to develop understanding of the current issues in the psychology of education and provide them with an 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).

Core modules

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

Optional modules

• Cognitive Development and Learning or Personality and Social Psychology
• Students choose one module from the following:
• Atypical Development
• Developmental Psychology and Psychobiology
• Issues in Educational Neuroscience
• Language Development
• Literacy Development
• Psychological Aspects of Counselling
• Reading and Spelling Difficulties
• Social Development

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, including guest speakers, student preparation of tasks and longer presentations, group work, discussion, and computer workshops giving hands-on practice. Assessment is through coursework and one unseen examination. Coursework can involve small exercices, critiques of set research articles and extended pieces of writing on set topics.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, either in psychology or a related subject, that has been accredited by the British Psychology Society.