MSc Health Psychology

at Birmingham City University

COURSE IN DEPTH

Modules

In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 180 credits):

 

Health Psychology over the Lifespan
20 credits

 

This module will consider how health needs and health behaviours change over the lifespan. Evidenced based research will be used to consider how health initiatives and health promotion target health needs at various stages across the life of an individual. Health initiative will be put into local, national and international contexts.

 

Application of Health Psychology Models
20 credits

 

Health psychology models move beyond the biomedical model in the explanation of health and risk health behaviours to an appreciation of social-cognitions which focus on the complex interplay between cognitive (psychological factors, emotions, control, perception) and social (environment, political, economic, socio-groups) factors. This module will examine these key health psychology models in their explanation and prediction of health and risky health behaviour change as well as preventative strategies.

 

Applied Research Methods in Health Psychology 1
20 credits

 

The scope of this module is to equip you with the necessary research methods in quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques necessary for stage 1 training. More importantly, the module will provide to students with the theoretical, practical and applied research methods background for further training and work in health psychology and allied health professions.

 

Applied Research Methods in Health Psychology 2
20 credits

 

The scope of this module is to equip you with a conceptual and applied understanding of the role of quantitative and qualitative research methods in health psychology. You will be presented with a range of advanced techniques for analysing quantitative and qualitative data and with support during these sessions and independent learning, you will begin to develop skills in quantitative and qualitative data analysis. This module will also cover advanced research topics including a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-synthesis of qualitative research.

 

Psychological Interventions and Behaviour Change
20 credits

 

Psychological interventions are integral to the work of a health psychologist which provides a framework to deliver health behaviour change. NICE guidelines and evidenced based health research details traditional and contemporary third wave psychological interventions which are being currently delivered and their mid and post intervention outcomes on behaviour which map onto the bio-psycho-social model.

 

These vary in their underpinning theory, modality of delivery, as well as assessment, formulation and intervention approaches. This module will help you to further build on your understanding of health psychology theoretical models, by appraising assessment, formulation, which informs intervention as well as health and well-being outcomes

 

Professional Development in Health Psychology
20 credits

 

Training and work in the profession of health psychology and allied health psychology, requires continual engagement in professional development. To ensure that an individual engages in on-going personal and professional development, the process of reflection and reflexivity is necessary.

 

Health Psychology Dissertation
60 credits

 

The aim of this module is to allow you to apply your theoretical understanding of applied research methods in health psychology 1 and 2 by developing an independent health psychology research project which includes conducting a mini-systematic review.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

 

Award: MSc Starting: Sep 2022
Full Time 1 Year £16,300 in 2022/23

You will be taught the skills and theory you need to be successful in the health psychology industry.

 

Gaining practical experience in these sectors will complement your learning and on-going career development.

 

We encourage you to gain voluntary work experience within the charity and health-related sectors. 

 

OpportUNIty

 

OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.

 

It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.