MResPsychology
Apply direct- 2023-24
- 2024-25
Are you interested in a career in psychology research? Or are there questions about current theory or practice you are keen to investigate? Through this MRes Psychology you’ll develop knowledge and skills in research methods, plan and lead your own research project, and have an opportunity to further develop your research career for a range of different sectors.
Research skills and psychological knowledge is a wonderful combination with which to answer some of society’s most pressing questions. This course will provide you with a solid grounding in research methods in psychology and experience of planning and managing unique projects, with real world answers.
Through a taught module covering research methods, one-to-supervision, and engagement with Solent’s Researcher Development Programme, you’ll gain the necessary skills to conduct independent research in the future.
At Solent, staff are skilled in both qualitative and quantitative research methods and assessments are based on real world tasks, such as preparing funding applications, presenting research, and writing journal articles. This creates a portfolio of work for you to take forward.
Whether you’re a practitioner who would like to expand your understanding of how research is conducted to create evidence, or would like to contribute to the evidence base, then this course can provide a fantastic foundation for you to carry out and implement research as part of your professional role.
If you’re interested in pursuing a research career in the public or voluntary sector, then MRes Psychology will provide you with a solid foundation of research skills as well as experience of leading your own research project. This is also a great start to future PhD or professional doctorate study.
Why choose this course?
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Call: +44 (0)23 8201 5066Email: admissions.international@solent.ac.ukSpeak to a tutor
Speak to a tutorCourse features
Apply direct
You can apply direct to Solent University for this course
Further studies
After successfully completing your studies, there's an opportunity to continue your studies at Solent
This course is for
This course will be of interest to anyone who wishes to learn more about the research process and how evidence is generated. You may be a practitioner wishing to conduct research in your area of practice now and in the future, or you may be considering a career in academic research. You’ll also have an opportunity to carry out research relevant for your workplace or professional area as a part of your studies. The skills acquired on this course are an asset for a range of sectors where research and evidence generation are critical.
What this course leads to
Students will be well prepared for a wide range of roles after graduation.
- Become a research professional, an evidence-based practitioner, or go on to a PhD.
Meet the team
The psychology team have expertise in a wide range of psychology, including our four main areas of expertise: clinical and counselling psychology, forensic psychology, and educational psychology. So, whatever your project, we're sure to have a member of staff who will share your interests and can supervise your studies.
The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.
Course modules modules
Core modules
Becoming a Researcher: The first steps
This module involves research methods training and the preparation of an advanced research project. Students are required to design a project, proposed by a member of staff or by the student on application to the course; however, the research must be developed by the student in order to develop research skills.
Advanced Research Project
This module involves the management and completion of an advanced research project, which students are required to carry out independently.
Becoming a Researcher: The next steps
This module will support the development of students in the supplementary skills needed for a career in research, whether in academia, statutory service, third sector or private sector. This will involve learning about the role of researchers in HE as well as other contexts, identifying funding opportunities, and developing career pathways.
Learning resources
At Solent, our aim is to deliver innovative, inclusive and intellectually stimulating teaching to develop self-confident and highly employable graduates. All our courses are designed with employability in mind, which makes industry-based learning a priority.
This course is assessed through a portfolio of research outputs, including the presentation of research through posters and presentations, the preparation of a journal article and funding bid/grant application, as well as a research pitch and reflective log. There is an opportunity after these outputs have been assessed for you to work with your supervisor towards publication of the journal article and submission of the funding bid.
Your future
On successful completion of this course, you’ll be able to apply your research skills in a variety of different sectors and can be a great preparation for PhD or professional doctorate study.
Learn transferable skills
Students will enhance their oral and verbal communication skills through research presentations and preparing written documents about their research. Organisation and time management skills will be enhanced because students take the lead in carrying out their own research. Data analysis is another key skill that will be acquired through this master's, as well as the ability to critique and apply evidence, which will be valuable in a number of different roles. Adaptability and problem solving will also be key areas of skill development due to the nature of real-world research and coping with unforeseen challenges.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees for the 2023/24 academic year are:
- UK and Channel Island full-time fees: : £7,400 per year
- International full-time fees:: £14,200 per year
For further information, please visit our tuition fees page.
Extra course costs
While most course costs are covered by your tuition fees, some essential resources and optional extras may need to be paid for separately. These additional costs are listed below. For advice on budgeting and managing your money, please contact student.funding@solent.ac.uk.
The 2023/24 other costs are not yet available. For guidance, previous other costs have been:
Compulsory costs
Students will be expected to cover the costs of any data collection such as travel to/from interviews.
£10 to print an A1 poster for the poster presentation assessment.
Alumni discount
Solent alumni are eligible for a 20% reduction of tuition fees if returning to study a postgraduate course.
Find out moreBursaries, scholarships and financial support
Solent University offers a range of bursaries and scholarships that provide financial assistance or waive fees for tuition or accommodation. Each bursary or scholarship has specific eligibility criteria. Check out our bursaries and scholarships pages to find out more.
Graduation costs
There is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £45 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost. Extra guest tickets will go on sale after results publication and will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. The cost per ticket is currently £15. Please note, we do not guarantee there will be any extra tickets available to purchase.
Financial information videos
Discover Solent University This video 'Discover Solent University' is available as a text transcript, with a description of visuals.
Find out what Southampton has to offer This video 'Find out what Southampton has to offer' is available as a text transcript, with a description of visuals.
Entry requirements
Please select an option below:
Key entry requirements
2:1 in Psychology or a related discipline in the social sciences and a research proposal.
- For further information about UK qualifications, please contact admissions.
Key entry requirements
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about UK, EU and international qualifications, please contact admissions.
Key entry requirements
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about UK, EU and international qualifications, please contact admissions.
Note to all international students requiring a visa
All international applicants need to be aware that the English language requirements to attend Solent University, and the English language requirements to obtain a visa from the Home Office, may be different. This means that if you meet the Solent University language requirement to gain a place on the course, you may still have to meet additional requirements to be granted with a visa by the Home Office.
We strongly advise all applicants to visit the Home Office website which outlines all the requirements for a successful visa application and to take a look at this PDF document which outlines both Solent University and Home Office requirements for a number of language tests.
An honours degree at2:1 or higher
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Call: +44 (0)23 8201 5066Email: admissions.international@solent.ac.ukSpeak to a tutor
Speak to a tutorYour application checklist
Applications for postgraduate courses can be made at any time prior to the start of the course. However, we strongly recommend you apply at your earliest convenience.
Please ensure you upload the following mandatory documents with your application.
- Two academic references.
- Certified transcripts of qualifications, including English language proficiency if non-UK student.
- Copy of passport.
- Copy of current visa (if applicable).
- A personal statement.
- Employer sponsor form, where appropriate.
Language requirements
Applicants who do not have English as their first language will be required to demonstrate an approved level of proficiency in the use of the English language. The agreed minimum requirements for this course are:
- IELTS minimum 6.5 overall with minimum of 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in reading, listening and speaking.
- TOEFL IBT 92 with a minimum of 22 in writing and a minimum of 20 in reading, listening and speaking
- Duolingo English Language Test - 115 overall with minimum of 100 in each component
or equivalent.
Qualifications are checked before enrolment, and international students must bring their original certificates or certified copies when coming to study at the University.
Pre-Sessional English programme
The University also offers a pre-sessional English programme for international students who wish to improve their level of English before starting a degree course.
Study options
Facilities
Psychology students here at Solent have full access to modern, industry-standard facilities, including dedicated computing suits, specialist software, psychophysiological recording equipment, eye-tracking apparatus, experimental cubicles and interview rooms.
Our vibrant campus brings state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning and elevate your student experience. Our award-winning teaching building, The Spark is centred around students and offers a stimulating study environment with flexible learning spaces. Away from studying, why not try out the gyms, fitness studios and sports halls in our £28 million Sports Complex, or watch a blockbuster film at our student-run cinema with Dolby Atmos audio.
Alumni network
As part of our global alumni community, you can take advantage of a range of benefits.
Whether it's been days or decades since you left us, or you're soon to don your cap and gown, things are constantly changing at Solent. We're always innovating, but we're also immensely proud of our heritage. And that means you.
Research and knowledge exchange
Research doesn't just live in publications and journals - the effects of groundbreaking research can be found everywhere you look. That's why research at Solent has always been firmly rooted in industry needs and real-world application.
Solent University prides itself on carrying out not only pioneering research, but also research that addresses real world problems. We offer opportunities to study for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in a number of areas.
At Solent, we want to help you achieve your best and discover new insights. Whether you're thinking about applying for a PhD, or already underway with your research studies, you'll find useful guidance and information in our research pages.
Find out moreSupport at Solent
All students at Solent University have access to a range of specialist support services. Whether you are having financial difficulty, need additional help with academic skills or want advice on setting up your own business you'll find that help is always on hand.
Most of our specialist support services are based around the Student Hub, a central space where you can access all of the information and support you may need during your time at University. The Student Hub is the first point of contact if you have any queries relating to your course, including questions about your timetable, options, and assessments and extenuating circumstances.
We work in partnership with the University to build a sense of pride and confidence in your Union, University and student experience.
Find out moreMake your application
- 1 year full-time