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MSc in Health Psychology
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Objectives
Health psychology concerns the application of the theories, methods and techniques of psychology to issues of health and illness, providing you with an integrated account of the psychological processes related to the maintenance of health, the promotion of the psychological wellbeing of the physically ill and the normal and pathological responses to ill health and stress. This necessitates the consideration of the psychological and physiological responses of the individual, as well as the social and community contexts of health-related behaviours and the systems for healthcare. You will be equipped with a sound knowledge of theories and practical issues relevant to health psychology and also a good understanding of both quantitative and qualitative approaches to research. The programme, which is accredited by the BPS, provides the academic component (Stage 1) on the route towards becoming a Chartered Health Psychologist. The Department also offers a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Psychology Practice which, if taken in parallel with the existing degree of Doctor of Philosophy after the MSc, will fulfil the BPS criteria for the award of chartered status in Health Psychology (Stage 2). Careers embarked upon by last year's students include: trainee health psychologist at the Queen Elizabeth Foundation, health promotion specialist for obesity in children, and recruitment consultant; two students are pursuing a PhD at Surrey and two others are currently research assistants at the University.
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Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements Programme requirements include having graduate basis for registration (GBR) with the British Psychological Society, and a good Upper Second or First in psychology.
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Academic title
MSc in Health Psychology
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Course description
MSc in Health Psychology Module overview
Core methods modules
Research Methods and Data Analysis
This module provides students with a background in the philosophy underlying research methods and the skills to assess qualitative and quantitative research effectively.
Research and Professional Skills
This module provides students with advanced knowledge and understanding of different research strategies through the teaching of practice-based skills that will transfer into working environments.
Conducting Health Psychology Research
This module provides students with advanced knowledge and understanding of methods, theory and practice in different types of assessment techniques used in health psychology research.
Chronic Conditions
This module provides students with advanced knowledge and understanding of theory and practice in particular relating to chronic illness/disability such as cancer, HIV, cardiovascular disorders, pain, arthritis and diabetes.
Epidemiology
This module provides students with advanced knowledge and understanding of theory and practice in particular relating to the epidemiology of health and illness, including coronary heart disease, low back pain and lung cancer.
Psychological Aspects of Healthcare
This module covers psychological factors that influence the patient's passage through the healthcare system.
Maintaining Health Throughout the Lifespan
This module provides students with advanced knowledge and understanding of methods, theory and practice in developing and maintaining health throughout the lifespan.
You will also be required to present a dissertation comprising an original piece of empirical research within an area of health psychology. This will be supervised by one of the Department's academic staff, and must be completed within the eleven month span of the Masters programme.
Programme length
12 months full-time, 24 months part-time
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