MSc Research Methods in Psychology

at University of Liverpool

This 12 month programme consists of four taught modules, and a research project carried out over the summer.
 

Compulsory modules

• Research Methods and Statistics 
• Advanced Experimental Methods 
• Advanced Statistics and Methods 
• Practical Research Skills 
• Research Dissertation in Psychology 
   

Introduction to Statistics and Methods I PSYC640 (30 credits)
 

This module aims: to introduce students to basic principles of experimental design; to highlight the importance of research ethics; to introduce the notion of hypothesis testing and behavioural sampling; to familiarise students with descriptive statistics, correlations and associations, non parametric tests and parametric tests; to introduce students to the analysis of naturally occurring language and biographical methods; to introduce students to unobtrusive measurement, content analysis and ethnographic research; to introduce students to open, semi structured and structured interviewing as well as focus groups.
 

Advanced Experimental Methods PSYC641 (30 credits)
 

This module aims to: provide students with a conceptual and historical background to a wide variety of experimental techniques which have been adopted in psychological research; provide students with practical experience of working in laboratories and carrying out a small piece of research under the guidance of a research-active supervisor; developing students with an ability to critically evaluate research methods, experimental designs and underpinning theories.
 

Advanced Statistics and Methods II PSYC643 (30 credits)
 

The aims of this module are: Quantitative: To introduce the concepts, underlying principles, and general purpose of a range of advanced data analysis techniques. Topics include mixed models, structural equation modelling and time series analysis. Students will learn how to conduct a selection of these analyses using relevant statistical software during supervised Practical sessions. Qualitative: To provide high-level research training in the social sciences and training in their selected discipline (eg planning, politics).
 

Practical Research Skills PSYC644 (30 credits)
 

This module will provide students with the knowledge and skills required for effective communication and management of their research in a variety of forms. Students consider appropriate formats, styles, communication skills and how to use effective graphics in their presentations. They also consider the ethical and professional issues that arise when conducting academic research, and learn about effective project organisation and management. Later sessions in the module consider communication with the ‘outside world’, including what to expect when working with the media. Finally, students learn how to write proposals, how to choose the right time to submit a proposal and how to communicate ideas effectively for applications.

To qualify for this programme you should have:-
 

• A good first degree in psychology or related subject (minimum 2.1.; with equivalent marks in modules focused on methods and statistics), or extensive research experience
• Ideally some experience of working on research projects (eg, as a research assistant) or in a role that draws on research skills
• A good understanding of research methods and inferential statistics
• Reasonable IT skills (knowledge of SPSS would be advantageous).
   

English language qualifications

All applicants must have reached a minimum required standard of English language, and are required to provide evidence of this. Qualifications accepted by the University include: GCSE English; GCE O level English; AS Level English; A Level English Language; IELTS; TOEFL; Cambridge Proficiency etc. 
 

If you meet the academic requirements of the course but do not have the required level of English Language, it is possible for you to come and study at the University on one of our Pre-sessional EAP programmes.  Please see the English Language Centre website for further information about these programmes;
 

• IELTS    7.5 (with a minimum of 7.0 in each component)
• TOEFL iBT    108 or above with minimum scores in components as follows: Listening and Writing 24, Reading 24, Speaking 24.
• International Baccalaureate    Standard Level 5
• Hong Kong use of English AS level    C
• INDIA Standard XII    70% or above from Central and Metro State Boards
• WAEC    C4-6
   

Please be advised that TOEFL is no longer classified by UK Visas and Immigration as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). However, at the current time the university is continuing to accept TOEFL, at the required level, for entry on to Undergraduate and Postgraduate academic programmes. 

Tuition fees (Home)
 

• The University's tuition fees are normally fixed at yearly intervals and follow Government guidelines on minimum levels. The normal tuition fee for Home (UK) postgraduate taught students per year (for the academic year 2022/23, unless otherwise specified) are stated below.  Please note that part-time fees are charged at 50% of the full-time fee shown below per year (unless otherwise specified). 
• In addition to your tuition fees, you may incur other costs in relation to your studies such as photocopying in the library, buying textbooks and specialist equipment or going on field classes. See our study costs page for full details.
   

Fee for this course    Year 1: £10,150

International students
 

• International students are required to pay the full costs of their tuition in the UK with each university setting its own international fees. 
• The University of Liverpool's fees represent excellent value for money for a Russell Group University. The normal tuition fee for full-time international postgraduate taught students per year (for the academic year 2022/23, unless otherwise specified) will be as follows:
   

International fee for this course    Year 1: £23,200

Our programmes aim to provide students with a high level of academic and analytical skill, making them suitable for careers or further postgraduate study in a number of areas. Graduates have had a choice of possibilities, including: Joining research teams as research associates in many areas, such as Applied Psychology and Criminology Working in the substance misuse field Clinical training Becoming members of police forces as “civilians” involved in intelligence work or as police officers Working in prisons or with clinical forensic populations working in commercial or industrial research and development units.