The MSc in Psychological Research Methods is designed to provide students with a practical understanding of psychological research methods that emphasizes professional and career development skills.

The course is recognized by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as providing postgraduate psychology research methods training to both full-time and part-time students. Further information about ESRC postgraduate training opportunities can be obtained from their web page.

The course is especially suitable for students seeking advanced psychology research methods training prior to undertaking a PhD, or on a stand-alone basis prior to further psychology research, vocational training, or career advancement.

The School of Psychology has particular research strengths in Behavioural Neuroscience, Language, Perception and Cognitive Processes, and in Social and Applied Psychology, and students are encouraged to undertake a research project in one of these areas.

This course provides advanced training in psychological research methods, with an emphasis on equipping students with the research and professional skills required for a research career.

Course Structure

Semester 1

Provides an introduction to advanced psychological research methods, building upon students' undergraduate knowledge of statistical methods and their application, and providing students with an introduction to research skills.

Advanced Research Methods in Psychology 1 PS7086 (20 credits)
Advanced Statistical Methods for Psychology PS7087 (20 credits).
Managing and Presenting Psychological Research PS7088 (20 credits).

Semester 2

Advanced Research Methods in Psychology 2 PS7089 (20 credits)
Evaluating Psychological Research PS7090 (20 credits).
Professional Skills PS7091 (20 credits).

Semester 3

Research Project (60 credits).

Students conduct an empirical research project under close supervision by a member of academic staff, culminating in the production of a research report that is in the format of a paper that could be submitted for publication in an academic journal. The research project will be evaluated in terms of the strengths of the independent research and the resulting report, and by oral examination.

Enquiries about the course are welcome, and should be sent to psychology@le.ac.uk. Further information about applying for postgraduate study and life at the University of Leicester is available from the Postgraduate Prospectus. 

Next step: request an Information and Application Pack

View the postgraduate prospectus and apply online