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Psychology: Cognitive Psychology (MSc)

Award
Master of Science
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025

Psychology: Cognitive Psychology (MSc) startingSeptember 2025 for1 year

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About this courseEntry requirementsCourse structureModulesLearning and assessmentCareers and employabilityFees, costs and fundingHow to applyRelated courses

About this course

This master's degree is ideal if you have a strong interest in cognitive psychology. You'll develop advanced research skills and knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to carry out both a research apprenticeship and a dissertation, with mentorship from a cognitive psychologist.

On this cognitive psychology master's pathway you'll study a variety of research methods and techniques, using tools such as the statistical software package R. You'll explore the latest developments in the field and learn:

  • in-depth knowledge of specific topics, issues and methods
  • how to relate and apply your research to psychological issues
  • how to analyse and communicate complex ideas
  • how to creatively plan and manage projects

You’ll work with internationally renowned psychology researchers at the School of Psychology. During the apprenticeship you'll gain plenty of practical experience carrying out ongoing departmental research. You'll learn how to conduct studies, describe your findings and write up the results.

When you successfully complete the degree you'll be well placed to progress to a PhD in cognitive psychology or for a career in data science.

Flexible study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

  • a part-time master's - study the same course content over 2 or more years

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

Course lead

The course lead is Dr Pascal Burgmer, Lecturer in Psychology and member of theCentre for Research on Self and Identity. Dr Burgmer's research focuses on social perception and behaviours, such as trust, empathy, morality and lay beliefs and theories that people hold on these issues. Find out more onDr Burgmer's staff profile.

Related pathways

If you'd prefer to focus your psychology studies in a different area you can choose from one of 3 other pathways:

Course location

This course is based atHighfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

Entry requirements

You'll need a 2:1 degree in either:

  • psychology
  • a related discipline, if you can demonstrate that it includes quantitative research skills

Find theequivalent international qualifications for your country.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

IELTS score requirements

overall score
7.0
reading
6.5
writing
6.5
speaking
6.5
listening
6.5

If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of ourpre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing apre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus.Learn more about the programmes available.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

This master's degree in psychology is usually studied over 12 months full-time, from September to the following September.

The taught part of the degree consists of 30 study weeks split into 2 semesters, during which time you'll study 8 modules.

You'll carry out 3 months of supervised research for your master’s dissertation.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

Youmust study the following modules in year 1:

Concepts & Skills

This module provides a great deal of key skills training that will prepare students for a career beyond this programme, whether that be a career in academia or in the workplace. The module also encourages students to take part in lively discussions and de...

Current Topics in Cognitive Psychology

This module aims to familiarize students with current topics in cognitive psychology and neuroscience, particularly those that are actively researched at the Centre for Perception and Cognition in the School of Psychology. Through lectures and tutorials, ...

Designing Research for Psychology

This applied research methods module aims to cover common research training needs for all students in their first year of postgraduate study in psychology. You will develop the knowledge and skills you need to begin to design your own research project, an...

Moral Psychology

This module will arm you with the skills and experience to examine and evaluate empirical psychological research on morality. We will examine classic and modern research examining questions like how people decide what is right and wrong, what motivates pe...

Open Science in Psychology

The Open Science in Psychology module focuses on training students in current open science practices – practices which are becoming increasingly popular in modern psychology research.

Qualitative Research Methods for Psychology

The module progresses through the key phases of qualitative research design and implementation, emphasising the (often iterative) links between these activities: epistemological concerns, research questions, data collection and analysis techniques, and th...

Quantitative Analysis for Psychology

The purpose of this module is to refresh and build upon statistics knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate psychology quantitative research methods training. It is divided into 11 sessions that cover a range of quantitative methodological conce...

Research Apprenticeship in Cognitive Psychology

Modern psychological research involves a wide array of different research skills. Many of these skills are practical in nature, including the writing and approval of ethical applications, the use of specific hardware and software, and the day-to-day runni...

Research Apprenticeship in Social Psychology

Modern psychological research involves a wide array of different research skills. Many of these skills are practical in nature, including the writing and approval of ethical applications, the use of specific hardware and software, and the day-to-day runni...

Statistical Programming in R

The Statistical Programming in R Module is focused on extending existing skills in analyzing data from quantitative research. The focus of this course will not be on extensively expanding the mathematical knowledge of the techniques employed but will be o...

Youmust also choose from the following modules in year 1:

AI Applications in Psychology

This module will provide an overview of how machine learning and Artificial Intelligence can be used to answer questions in different fields of psychology.

Advanced Statistical Methods in Psychology

This module is divided into two components that focus on cutting-edge statistical techniques. The first half focuses on Structural Equation Models, covering Path Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, Structural Equation Modelling, Multigroup Models ...

Current Topics in Cognitive Psychology

This module aims to familiarize students with current topics in cognitive psychology and neuroscience, particularly those that are actively researched at the Centre for Perception and Cognition in the School of Psychology. Through lectures and tutorials, ...

Designing Research for Psychology

This applied research methods module aims to cover common research training needs for all students in their first year of postgraduate study in psychology. You will develop the knowledge and skills you need to begin to design your own research project, an...

Evidence Synthesis

Evidence synthesis practices are a cornerstone of modern scientific research, enabling researchers to quantify, with great precision, different aspects of large volumes of experimental and other work. This module will equip you with the skills and underst...

Human Sexual Diversity

This module will provide an overview of human sexuality, sexual behaviour, and sexual diversity.

Moral Psychology

This module will arm you with the skills and experience to examine and evaluate empirical psychological research on morality. We will examine classic and modern research examining questions like how people decide what is right and wrong, what motivates pe...

Qualitative Research Methods for Psychology

The module progresses through the key phases of qualitative research design and implementation, emphasising the (often iterative) links between these activities: epistemological concerns, research questions, data collection and analysis techniques, and th...

Quantitative Analysis for Psychology

The purpose of this module is to refresh and build upon statistics knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate psychology quantitative research methods training. It is divided into 11 sessions that cover a range of quantitative methodological conce...

Research Apprenticeship in Cognitive Psychology

Modern psychological research involves a wide array of different research skills. Many of these skills are practical in nature, including the writing and approval of ethical applications, the use of specific hardware and software, and the day-to-day runni...

Research Apprenticeship in Psychology

Modern psychological research involves a wide array of different research skills. Many of these skills are practical in nature, including the writing and approval of ethical applications, the use of specific hardware and software, and the day-to-day runni...

Research Apprenticeship in Social Psychology

Modern psychological research involves a wide array of different research skills. Many of these skills are practical in nature, including the writing and approval of ethical applications, the use of specific hardware and software, and the day-to-day runni...

Social and Psychological Approaches to Understanding Sexual Health

This module is designed to enable and encourage students to apply social psychological and related methods and theories to various aspects of sexual health, including both psychological and physical aspects.

Year 2 modules

Youmust study the following modules in year 2:

Youmust also choose from the following modules in year 2:

MSc Dissertation

The aim of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to work with a member of the academic unit to develop a research question and implement a project that generates new knowledge in the field of psychology and that serves to extend the disci...

MSc Dissertation in Cognitive Psychology

The aim of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to work with a member of the academic unit to develop a research question and implement a project that generates new knowledge in the field of psychology and that serves to extend the disci...

MSc Dissertation in Social Psychology

The aim of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to work with a member of the academic unit to develop a research question and implement a project that generates new knowledge in the field of psychology and that serves to extend the disci...

Learning and assessment

Learning

You'll cover the theory, practice and context of a wide range of research approaches, using a combination of: 

  • lectures
  • seminars
  • workshops
  • independent study
  • e-learning

Assessment

We'll assess you using:

  • research papers
  • presentations
  • quizzes
  • problem sets
  • exams (including multiple choice and essay questions)
  • your research dissertation

Dissertation

Supported by a supervisor, you’ll plan and write a 10,000 word in-depth study based on what you have learned. 

During this time, you'll be able to develop and apply your own specialist research methods and skills.

Academic Support

You’ll work with a senior tutor to plan and research your dissertation.

Careers and employability

Employability skills

This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.

The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:

  • Research
  • Critical thinking
  • Self-management
  • Confidence
  • Communication
  • Creativity
  • Problem solving

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview
Women discussing in library tablet

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

Health and social work,

Education,

Professional,

Scientific and Technical,

Research,

Local government,

Corporate sector.

Wider career opportunities:
  • Research officer
  • Trainee accountant
  • Trainee teacher
  • Project manager
  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Social researcher
  • Operations manager
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • Counsellor
  • Therapist
See more
Example job titles of Southampton MSc Psychology graduates*:
  • Health psychologist
  • Assistant psychologist
  • Research assistant
  • Psychological wellbeing practitioner
  • Health and wellbeing coach
  • Group facilitator
  • Social prescriber
  • Smoking cessation advisor
  • Progression coach
  • Health advisor
See more

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes: 

  • work experience schemes
  • CV and interview skills and workshops
  • networking events
  • careers fairs attended by top employers
  • a wealth of volunteering opportunities
  • study abroad and summer school opportunities 

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter,Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

  • UK students pay £9,250.
  • EU and international students pay £30,300.

Checkfees for other versions of this course.

Deposit

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on ourtuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety ofadditional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out aboutfunding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

  1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
  2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
  3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
  4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
  5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions,check terms and conditions).
  6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process,read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

There are different application deadlines for this course. Applications are expected to close:

  • International students: Tuesday 29 July 2025, midday UK time
  • UK students: Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on ourterms and conditions page.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

  • your knowledge of the subject area
  • why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
  • how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to submit two academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application. 

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Related courses

Psychology: Cognitive Psychology (MSc) is a course in thePsychology subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area: