Health Psychology (Taught)

This MSc programme in Health Psychology, which is accredited by the British Psychological Society, offers you the opportunity to expand on and apply your knowledge and skills to help solve some of the big health issues facing society today. Health Psychology is the fastest growing field of psychology in the UK. This MSc programme aims to provide you with an understanding of theories and methods in this exciting field and the ability to apply them to play an active role in helping solve the health challenges our society faces. Successful completion of the MSc Health Psychology confers Stage 1 of the BPS training requirements for Chartered Health Psychologist status.

Although the topics covered are diverse, the main areas of interest are:

- Health behaviours - understanding and changing participation in health damaging and health protecting behaviours
- Psychological aspects of illness and disability - examining the psychological impact of illness on individuals, families and carers, promoting positive 'illness behaviours'
- Health related cognitions and emotions - investigating the cognitive and emotional processes which explain health and illness behaviours
- Processes influencing the delivery of health care - studying factors that influence how health care professionals and organisations deliver care
- Professional practice - training in key skills such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing and health coaching

The course emphasises active learning and repeated exposure to best practice. A variety of teaching methods are used to help students achieve the three main course aims of; understanding (lectures, tutorials, self-study), application (observation, placements, group work, practicals, problem based learning), and the development of a critical academic attitude (structured discussions, debates, critical review tutorials).

Much of the teaching is participatory and students are expected to consolidate all taught content by completing related tasks and activities and engaging in independent study.

There are different types of assessment throughout the programme including formative assessment (in class presentations or online quizzes) and summative assessment (assignments, presentations, written/oral tests/examinations, research review and thesis).

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• British Psychological Society