Health Psychology MSc (online)

Program Overview

The Health Psychology MSc (online) from Ulster Online is an accredited program designed for busy professionals seeking to advance their careers in health psychology. Delivered entirely online, it offers flexible study options and equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to become Registered Health Psychologists or work in various healthcare settings. The program emphasizes applied skills, research methods, and critical thinking, preparing graduates to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Program Outline

Health Psychology MSc (online) - Ulster Online

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to become future leaders in the field of health psychology
• Enhance professional skills and theoretical understanding of the field.
• Teach research methods and statistical techniques.
• Provide training to become a Registered Health Psychologist or work in research, public health, healthcare consultancy, community healthcare or charity.

Description:

• An online Master's degree program delivered entirely online through Ulster's dedicated online learning platform.
• Designed for busy professionals who want to balance their studies with existing commitments.
• Allows students to study at their own pace and fit their studies around their work and life commitments.
• Graduates will emerge with skills covering an extensive range of disciplines including research, assessment, and intervention in health psychology.
• Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and constitutes Stage 1 Training towards becoming a Registered Health Psychologist in the UK.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• Part-time, with a minimum duration of two years and a maximum of four years.
• Flexible, allowing students to take modules at their own pace.
• Consists of six core modules and a dissertation.

Modules:

• Bio-Behavioural Mechanisms Underlying Health
• Individual Perspectives in Health Psychology
• Methods and Issues in Research and Practice (MIRP)
• Social, Cultural and Family Perspectives in Health Psychology
• Context and Perspectives in Health Psychology
• Models and Applications in Health Psychology (MAHP)
• Dissertation: Conduct in-depth research and write a dissertation on an area of interest at an appropriate Masters level of scholarship.

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through assignments, presentations, and examinations.
• Dissertation assessed for its originality, critical analysis, and application of knowledge.
• Assessment criteria aligned with BPS Stage 1 Training requirements.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Online lectures and tutorials.
• Asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities.
• Interactive learning activities and group discussions.
• One-to-one support from dedicated tutors.

Faculty:

• Experienced and research-active academics, including registered health psychologists.
• Strong links with professional organizations and the Division of Health Psychology.
• Active involvement in research and engagement with the wider health community.

Unique Approaches:

• Focus on applied skills and real-world case studies.
• Emphasis on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Registered Health Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Public Health Specialist
• Healthcare Consultant
• Community Health Worker
• Charity or Advocacy Worker

Opportunities:

• Work in hospitals, community health settings, research units, local authorities, and public health departments.
• Conduct research or pursue further academic studies.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of health interventions and policies.

Outcomes:

• Graduates will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
• Be prepared for a fulfilling career in the field of health psychology.

Other:

• Ulster University ranks as a Top 10 UK university for psychology (Guardian University Guide 2024).
• The School has an excellent reputation for delivering world-class research.