ObjectivesThe overall aim of this course is to develop your understanding of organisations and how psychology is relevant to the performance of a business and its employees. Graduates from the course will be able to apply the theoretical and research approaches from psychology to organisational settings in order to enhance business effectiveness and competitiveness. The aim of the course is to achieve this by integrating a wide range of research methods with current psychological theory and allowing you to practice and apply this knowledge and skills within organisational contexts. The Association of Business Psychologists (a new professional body that represents psychologists acting as advisors and consultants to businesses) supports the course.
Entry requirementsGraduates with good degrees that include around 50% psychology. Applicants with degrees in other areas may be considered if they can demonstrate considerable relevant work experience. Proficiency in the English language is essential. If English is not your first language, you will require an IELTS 6.5 minimum with a minimum score of 6 in all components, TOEFL (old examination) 630, TOEFL (new examination) 267 or equivalent.
Academic titleMSc Business Psychology
Course descriptionCourse structure
Apart from traditional lectures, you also attend practical workshops, and are expected to complete an independent research project based within an organisation. The course consists of six core modules and an applied research project.
The modules are:
Psychology for Business Success: examines key aspects of business activity and how business psychology can be applied to give a competitive advantage. There is also an element of Consumer Psychology included here. Consultants visiting from the Association of Business Psychologists give the majority of the lectures.
Organisational Learning, Innovation and Creativity: this module explores the concept of what is meant by learning at individual, group and organisational levels and how this relates to developing innovation. You also explore new approaches to product innovation.
Selection and Development for Business Success: analyses the elements that constitute a successful selection procedure. You also examine assessment and development programmes and how these can influence the performance of businesses.
Organisational Culture and Change: analyses organisations from an anthropological and psychoanalytical viewpoint. The metaphors of culture and Freudian theory will be used to examine how individuals experience groups and organisations.
Decision Making, Leadership and Motivation: looks at the elements of leadership and what differentiates it from management. Different leadership styles are examined and their relationship with commitment and motivation explored.
Research Methods and Consultancy Skills: you acquire skills in a variety of research methodologies and develop skills in data collection, analysis and interpretation. Mini-projects are undertaken in organisational settings in order to develop the negotiation and intervention skills essential for the consultant.
Business Psychology Project: independent research project in organisational setting.
Assessment
There are no examinations on this course, but this does not mean that it is easy! You will be assessed through a range of methods including essays, presentations, case studies and reports. A high standard is required that satisfies both academic and business criteria. You also have the opportunity to contribute to the course by leading workshops as part of a team and individually.
Career opportunities
The course will enhance your professional development in the areas of business, marketing and human resources. Graduates are encouraged to become members of The Association of Business Psychologists, and the course is also an excellent foundation for further study in related areas.
Attendance & duration
Full-time: one year, Tuesdays and Thursdays, sessions in the afternoon and eve
Part-time (day and evening): two years, Tuesdays and Thursdays, sessions in the afternoon and eve