Course summary
Based within one of the largest centres for teacher education and training in the UK, the MSc in Psychology in Education looks in-depth at how theory and research in psychology can be applied to a greater understanding of behaviour in educational contexts. No prior knowledge or study of psychology is required. This British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited conversion course, offers Graduate Basis for Chartered membership (GBC) to those who do not currently hold it (essential for pursuing a future career in psychology). This intensive postgraduate degree will be of interest to anyone who wishes to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the application of psychology to education. This includes individuals who already have an accredited psychology degree because of its applied focus and opportunity for further work experience, both relevant to pursuing professional training. For these students, whilst some of the theoretical content may feel familiar, its application to educational contexts will prove new and challenging. Students who successfully complete the BPS accredited MSc, will acquire a range of transferable skills attractive to employers such as numerical reasoning, communication skills, computer literacy, critical thinking and problem solving, project management and teamwork.
Modules
During the MSc you will study the following modules*: Individual development (20 credits) This module introduces key psychological theories underpinning current understanding of typical and atypical development and considers their possible implications for education. Topics covered include social, emotional and cognitive development, adverse childhoods and schooling including applications of attachment theory, and the development of language and literacy. Neuroeducation (20 credits) This module considers how a neuroscientific approach can inform education practice and policy. It will introduce conceptual frameworks for a critical understanding of professional practice from a neuroeducation perspective In addition to covering fundamental concepts in neuroscience, evolution and learning and neurodiversity, the module will consider educational neuromyths and emerging issues such as chrono-education and cognitive enhancement. Teaching and learning (20 credits) This module considers research in psychology related to how students are taught and how students learn and their practical implications for teaching and learning. Foundational cognitive processes will be covered such as memory, motivation, emotion and metacognition, and the application of these processes, for example to understanding the use of ICT in education and classroom communication. Human behaviour in education (20 credits) This module aims to provide an understanding of social psychological issues in educational contexts. Topics covered include self, culture and identity, classroom climate and management, teacher effects, relationships in school settings, the impacts of social media, and happiness and well-being in educational environments. Mental health and well-being (20 credits) This module will develop and understanding of theories of mental health and wellbeing and consider a variety of frameworks for managing psychological difficulties, such as those associated with depression and substance abuse, and bringing about positive change. Biological, psychological and social factors that influence health, wellbeing and behaviour in children and adolescents and their impacts on education will be considered. Researching psychology in education (20 credits) This module aims to develop knowledge and skills related to both qualitative and quantitative approaches to psychological research in the context of education with the goal of creating a clear understanding of the characteristics of scientifically rigorous and ethical research. Laboratory workshops will allow students to learn and practice key research skills, such as analysing data and interpreting results and writing up research reports. The ability to design and conduct psychological research will be developed in preparation for the dissertation. Professional placement (20 credits) This module is only available to students already holding GBC and can be taken in place of any other 20 credit module (excluding Researching Psychology in Education). This Professional Placement module provides an ideal opportunity to significantly increase work experience in an educational context, and develop action research skills and the application of new knowledge in real-world settings. It will involve spending the equivalent of one full day each week in a professional setting, totalling 60 hours. In this setting a piece of action research, negotiated with the provider, will be completed. Empirical research project (60 credits) This module provides an opportunity to carry out an independent empirical study on a topic negotiated with a dissertation supervisor. This is a substantial research report that involves selecting, rationalising and implementing a research proposal following stringent ethical guidelines and then coherently and fully presenting the project in an appropriate academic style. *Modules within the MSc can be studied as optional stand-alone modules to increase knowledge in specific topics.
Assessment method
The MSc is assessed by a range of different coursework assignments – e.g. presentations, reports, essays, case studies, academic posters, research proposal. There are no formal examinations. Assessments are staggered to carefully manage schedules and are designed to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of theoretical, applied and professional practice issues. All assessments have a pass mark of 50%. Students will receive feedback on their assessed work that will help them to learn more effectively and aid in the development of practical skills and critical, reflective thinking. All MSc students are required to complete an empirical research project, which can be presented in either a traditional thesis format or in publishable paper format. In order to be eligible for GBC students must gain a pass mark of at least 50% for the Empirical Research Project.
Professional bodies
Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.
- British Psychological Society
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
Entry requirements
Applicants should usually have a first or upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent, in any subject. Each applicant is considered on their academic merits and their ability to demonstrate an interest and ability in the subject area. For example: Applicants who hold Graduate membership of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS) will be considered with a lower second-class Honours degree or equivalent. Applicants who have successfully completed postgraduate study will be considered if their first Honours degree is below an upper second-class or equivalent. International Applicants: Students whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of fluency to at least an IELTS 6.5 standard or equivalent. For full details about how to apply and English Language qualifications please visit the International pages on the Cardiff Met website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Republic of Ireland | £11000 | Whole course |
| England | £11000 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £11000 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £11000 | Whole course |
| Wales | £11000 | Whole course |
| EU | £17600 | Whole course |
| International | £17600 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Student Recruitment & Admissions
Western Avenue
Cardiff
CF5 2YB