Psychological Research Methods MRes; MSc
About this course
This postgraduate degree is designed to prepare graduates in Psychology or related disciplines for a PhD, for research related careers in academic or applied psychological disciplines, or for careers in which data handling and analytic skills are of relevance.
You will be equipped with advanced skills in statistics, psychometrics, qualitative research methodologies, structural equation modelling, and observational methods. You’ll also develop skills in experimental and qualitative research design alongside the opportunity for practical experience using experiment generators, image and sound editing, and some of latest technological tools (e.g. EEG, eye-tracking, body motion capture) in Psychology.
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Tailor your learning experience
Tailor your learning to suit your future ambitions – choose between an MSc or MRes route depending on your preference.
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Prepare for your future
with a course designed for future researchers, data handlers in industry and the public sector, or PhD candidates.
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Set days in university each week
With 3 set days in university each week (2 for part-time students), balance your studies around your other commitments such as part-time work.
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Benefit from excellent support
from our academic team to enhance your learning.
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(out of 1,049 evaluated institutions)
What you’ll study
Students undertaking this course have the choice between two qualifications – an MSc (Master of Science) or an MRes (Master of Research). Both awards are equivalent in their level of study, but have slightly different structures that allow students to focus on breadth of methods skills (MSc) or depth of research experience (MRes).
If you’re unsure of which route would suit you best, because of the shared first term we recommend applying to the MSc route, and then requesting a switch of award at the end of term 1, in consultation with your course leader and teaching team. A switch from MRes to MSc at the end of Term 1, is also possible.
In term one, both groups of students study the same core modules.
In term two MSc students study five taught modules, alongside a research project. MRes students study fewer taught modules in term two, and instead focus on a more substantial research project, that is aligned with new and ongoing projects in the department.
If you are a part-time student, we will negotiate which modules you will study in year one and year two when you arrive. You will need to have completed the majority of your taught modules before you can begin your project in term two, of year two.
Advanced Statistics One
This module examines the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of statistics used in experimental research (e.g., statistical inference, power and effect size). The framework for the module is a regression / GLM approach to statistics that focuses on the relationship between multiple linear regression, ANOVA and ANCOVA. The module also covers the application of these concepts in widely available computer software such as R. These include the relationship between different experimental designs (e.g., factorial designs, multi-stage sampling, RCTs, cross-sectional designs, longitudinal designs or single-case studies) and statistical issues such as power and generalizability. Practical issues such as dealing with violations of statistical assumptions or missing data are also considered.
Psychometrics One: Developing Psychometric Scales in Research and Practice
This module will provide you with a basic knowledge of psychometric theory and how this theory can be applied to the different stages of test development. More specifically, the module aims to demonstrate the process of test development through practical application of theory, whereby you will work to produce your own psychometric scale.
Qualitative Research Design and Analysis One
Qualitative research is concerned with the subjective world and aims to investigate human experience in order to understand peoples’ opinions, motivations and feelings. As you explore this fascinating topic, qualitative research is not just one method but a constellation of designs and methods, each offering a unique perspective on a chosen research topic. You will learn how to evaluate qualitative research, as well as how to manage, handle, report and present the qualitative data you are working with.
Observational Methods
This module equips you with a knowledge of, and practical skills in, observational methods. You will work with other students on a collective observational analysis of video-taped material to build up your skills so that you will graduate from the module competent to use structured observational methods in your own research studies.
Psychological Experiments: Tools and Methodologies
The module provides you with a better understanding of experimental design and methodology in Psychology. You will gain practical skills in building experiments using specialist software to run them and collect data. You will also gain a better understanding and practical experience of the how to generate or manipulate stimuli for your experimental needs. You will also explore open science in Psychology and issues of replicability. Many of these skills will be practical and transferable in other areas.
Advanced Statistics Two
Advanced Statistics Two uses the regression framework adopted in Advanced Statistics One and introduces additional advanced statistical topics such as logistic regression, Poisson regression, meta-analysis and multilevel modelling. The module builds on practical topics introduced in Advanced Experimentation and Statistics (One) such as dealing with violations of assumptions and the limitations of standard research designs for real world data (e.g., handling unbalanced or missing data in repeated measures analyses).The module is taught using R.
Psychometrics Two: Using Psychometric Scales in Research and Practice
Psychometrics Two builds on the understanding and skills you developed in Psychometrics One, advancing them to considers how scales are used in research and practice. It also considers other forms of psychometrics beyond just surveys and questionnaires and you will tackle a range of problem based scenarios drawn from real world situations.
Qualitative Research Design and Analysis Two
This module will provide you with both the theoretical underpinnings and analytic practice of conversation analysis (CA), membership categorisation (MCA), and discursive psychology (DP). The module includes lectures on theory / method combined with seminars looking at data and perform analysis.
Structural Equation Modelling (SEM)
On this module, you will be introduced to the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of structural equation modelling (SEM) and equipped with the skills, and understanding, to appropriately construct, analyse, and interpret theoretical path analytic CFA, and SEM models.
Technological Tools in Psychology
In this module, you'll be introduced to some of the technologically informed tools (e.g., EEG, bio-packs, eye-tracking, TMS) and associated methods of contemporary psychology. This module will provide you with practical hands-on experience of a range of cutting-edge psychological research tools and the data they produce. You'll also learn about and critically consider a range of issues in and around the theory, methodology, and application of these tools and approaches.
Psychology Research Project
Your project is an independent piece of work that is supervised by a member of staff who will guide and support you as you work towards producing a final report for assessment. This will be the main opportunity for you to carry out an extensive piece of independent research of your own choosing and for you to demonstrate that you have the skills to devise, conduct, analyse, present and report an empirical study to postgraduate level.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
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How you're taught
This course starts in late September. A dedicated induction day is provided for all students which introduces you to your course, to your teaching teams and to the university facilities. The day ends with an informal social event.
The course is completed in one year of full-time study (your final piece of coursework is submitted in late August) or two years part-time. The teaching terms run from late September to Christmas and then from January to Easter. The contact teaching for full-time students is delivered over three days per week, and for part-time students over two days per week.
Study and support
A mixture of lectures, seminars and workshops are used throughout the course to develop your knowledge and understanding, whilst small group tutorials are provided to support your development of both subject knowledge and a range of transferable skills.
You will be taught in small cohorts, building a community of people to share your experiences with, and draw support from. This allows the whole course team get to know you more easily and respond to individual needs more readily. All students (full and part-time) are attached to a fortnightly tutorial system that runs across both term one and term two. Your tutorial tutor is also your personal tutor and will be a primary contact for you throughout the year. You will also have a project supervisor who will act as an addition source of guidance and support during your time at NTU.
The course adopts a pragmatic approach to research, arguing that all research methods and approaches, whether quantitative, psychometric, qualitative, or mixed, should be attuned to the subject-matter and the nature of the research hypothesis or question to be answered. Offering a balanced appreciation of all methodological approaches, their relative strengths and weaknesses, the course will leave you equipped to conduct research in any area of psychology.
Assessment methods
You will be assessed in a variety of ways and on a modular basis through:
- examination
- coursework
- essays
- laboratory reports
- oral presentations
- research project.
An active research environment
Throughout the course you'll benefit from research-informed teaching and you may be interested in finding out more about our wide range of psychology research groups exploring areas such as cognition and perception; wellbeing; language and psycholinguistics; addiction and aberrant behaviours; development; interaction and social relations.
World-leading research
- In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 100% of NTU's research environment in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience was assessed to be world-leading or internationally excellent in terms of quality.
In-sessional English language support
In-sessional English language support classes are available to all international (non-EU) students studying on degree courses at NTU. There is no extra charge for these classes.
Careers and employability
Upon graduation, you'll possess the methodological and practical knowledge required to realise your potential as an independent researcher in various fields of Psychology or in closely related disciplines.
Many of our graduates have gone on to pursue an academic and / or research career in various areas of psychology (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD in the UK or overseas). You may choose to use your research methods qualification as a stepping stone to undertaking further training as a professional psychologist (for example, in forensic, clinical, and educational psychology) or to secure careers in data handling and analysis outside psychology (for example, in industry, the civil service, or business and marketing).
The skills gained are transferable across a wide range of careers. Your qualification is likely to be popular with many employers because you'll have demonstrated an ability to write essays and reports, to capture data across using abroad range of methods and tools, to master advanced methods of analysis, and to talk and present in front of other people.
Previous graduates have gone on to pursue careers as a:
- University research assistant
- Senior healthcare assistant
- Research & Insights Director in digital marketing
- Data analyst Nottinghamshire Police
- University Lecturer (UK and Overseas)
- Human behavioural insights researcher (Instinct Laboratory)
- Research & Insight Project Officer (Youth Sport Trust)
- CEO and co-founder of Esitu Solutions (Driving research safety)
- Clinical Psychology training
Please note that for some careers, further study and / or a BPS-accredited conversion course conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership may be required.
Employability team
Our expert Employability team will work closely with you at every stage of your career planning, providing personal support and advice. You can benefit from this service at any time during your studies, and for up to three years after completing your course. Find out more about the service.
Campus and facilities
As a postgraduate Psychology student, you’ll mainly be studying in the Chaucer, Taylor and Newton buildings, at the centre of our vibrant City Campus. As well as a range of classrooms and lecture theatres, you’ll benefit from our dedicated Psychology learning environments.
We have specialist research laboratories including eye-trackers, motion capture labs, virtual reality and driving simulation suites, a mock prison cell, and an £80,000 EEG system. These facilities support your learning alongside staff research in the exciting areas of human cognition, behavioural neuroscience, human interaction and communication, and human development.
NTU’s City Campus has everything you’ll need to stay busy between lectures. As well as the Boots Library and its beautiful roof garden, there’s our stylish Students’ Union building and two-storey, 100-station gym; a whole host of cafés, bars, restaurants and food outlets for every taste; our much-loved Global Lounge; performance and rehearsal spaces for musicians; and much, much more!
Take a few steps off campus and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. It’s stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure. Enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Take our virtual tour to get a real feel for the campus.
Entry requirements
UK students
Applying with prior qualifications
You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology or a closely related discipline; or other recognised equivalent qualification.
Applying with non-standard entry qualifications/experience
Applicants without such qualifications will be considered on an individual basis but will be required to demonstrate how their experiences and knowledge would enable them to study this course at Masters-level in their Personal Statement.
Good performance in research methods and statistics classes and / or in the conduct and presentation of a research project are likely to act as a mitigating factor where a 2.1 has not been achieved at undergraduate level.
Additional requirements for UK students
Your application form requires a written statement in which you should outline reasons for wishing to undertake the MSc / MRes Psychological Research Methods course. We will be looking to ensure that you have a sound rationale for joining the course based on a realistic appreciation of the discipline and profession of psychology.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
International students
Academic entry requirements: You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology or a closely related discipline; or other recognised equivalent qualification. We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international entry requirements by country.
Applicants without such qualifications will be considered on an individual basis but will be required to demonstrate how their experiences and knowledge would enable them to study this course at Masters-level in their Personal Statement. Good performance in research methods and statistics classes and / or in the conduct and presentation of a research project are likely to act as a mitigating factor where a 2.1 has not been achieved at undergraduate level.
English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.
Additional requirements for international students
Your application form requires a written statement in which you should outline reasons for wishing to undertake the MSc / MRes Psychological Research Methods course. We will be looking to ensure that you have a sound rationale for joining the course based on a realistic appreciation of the discipline and profession of psychology.
English language requirements
View our English language requirements for all courses, including alternative English language tests and country qualifications accepted by the University.
If you need help achieving the language requirements, we offer a Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes course on our City campus which is an intensive preparation course for academic study at NTU.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
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Getting in touch
If you need advice about studying at NTU as an international student or how to apply, our international webpages are a great place to start. If you have any questions about your study options, your international qualifications, experience, grades or other results, please get in touch through our enquiry form. Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
Policies
We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.
