Psychological Methods
(MRes) Psychological Methods
Entry for 2026
FHEQ level
This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Course Aims
This course provides the research training in psychological methods for those wishing to pursue a doctorate in psychology (or related disciplines) or to pursue other paths within psychology research. The course provides strong training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, in the philosophical underpinnings of psychology, and in the day-to-day research skills used by psychological scientists. A major component of the training involves conducting independent research under the supervision of a member of academic staff.
Course learning outcomes
Demonstrate an ability to use the methods of psychological research including qualitative methods, advanced quantitative methods, and advanced Empirical Methods.
Demonstrate an ability to conduct research in psychology, both complete pieces of research and day-to-day laboratory activities
Show evidence of advanced scholarship that enables the student to demonstrate awareness of ethical issues in psychology and show the ability to apply them to particular pieces of research
Show evidence of advanced scholarship that enables the student to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses
Show evidence of advanced scholarship that enables the student to conduct a wide range of statistical analyses in order to test hypotheses and make valid inferences
Use the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility
Use the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations
Show enhanced skills in learning and presenting new subject areas the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development
For information on the composition of this course please see either the on-line Undergraduate prospectus for undergraduate related courses or the on-line Postgraduate prospectus for postgraduate related courses.
More detailed information on the course structure and modules within this degree will be available on this page shortly.
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.