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  1. Home
  2. Postgraduate
  3. Postgraduate Research Programmes
  4. School of Psychology Postgraduate Research Courses
  5. Psychology, Ph.D. / MSc by Research / M.Phil.

Psychology, Ph.D. / MSc by Research / M.Phil.

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An internationally excellent research reputation (REF2021)

Research Excellence Framework 2014

Key Course Details

Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 4,596
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 4,700
Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 2,298
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 2,350
MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2023 or Jan 2024 £ 4,700
MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2023 £ 2,350
M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 4,596
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 4,700
M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 2,298
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 2,350
Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 19,350
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 19,950
Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 9,700
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 10,000
MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2023 or Jan 2024 £ 19,950
MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2023 £ 10,000
M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 19,350
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 19,950
M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2023 £ 9,700
Oct 2023 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2024 £ 10,000

Course Overview

Start dates: 1st October, 1st January, 1st April, 1st July.

Understanding the complexities of the human mind and how we relate to the world around us remains one of science’s greatest challenges.

Our School of Psychology has an outstanding reputation from take the Science behind their Psychology research and taking a translational approach to have real-world impact for the benefit of patients and society. Studying your Psychology PhD with us you will become part of our 3*-4* research environment (REF2021). This means you will be joining a research environment of sufficient quality reflective of a profile conducive to producing research of world-leading and internationally excellent quality.

Our areas of research expertise in Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical and Health Psychology support four broad research groups:

  • Clinical and Health Behaviour, addressing how behaviours develop and influence people’s decisions relating to their health and well-being, and the impact of health interventions. Recent student research projects have explored the role of social marketing in preventing child obesity, and trauma following acute illness.
  • Cognition and Perception, covering areas such as perception, identification, and processing of objects and events, and the cognitive and neural basis for language development. Current research topics include the representation of colour and shape in memory, and word recognition and production.
  • Brain and Behaviour, exploring the integration of neuroscience and behaviour, including brain chemistry, neuropsychology, and brain injury. Student research currently underway includes substance abuse factors affecting attention, and learning, memory and reading in individuals with autistic spectrum disorders.
  • Forensic Psychology, exploring the interface between psychology and the law, and includes many aspects, such as legal process, the assessment, supervision and treatment of those who have offended, working with victims of crime, and addressing risk and re-offending.

Offering flexibility through a wholly research-based mode of study; the MSc by Research in Psychology course is perfect for those looking to balance work, life and study commitments.

As a student at our School of Health and Social Care, you will benefit from a dynamic and supportive research environment with many opportunities to make connections across disciplines and develop links with organisations and policymakers both in the UK and abroad.

Our state-of-the-art research facilities include a high-density electroencephalography (EEG) suite, a fully fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, plus more than 20 all-purpose research rooms.

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Entry Requirements

Qualifications
MPhil: Applicants for MPhil must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). See - Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019 and Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019.

PhD: Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level and a master’s degree. Alternatively, applicants with a UK first class honours degree (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) not holding a master’s degree, will be considered on an individual basis. See - Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019 and Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019. 

English Language
IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Reference Requirement

As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Applications received without two references attached are placed on hold, pending receipt of the outstanding reference(s). Please note that any protracted delay in receiving the outstanding reference(s) may result in the need to defer your application to a later potential start point/entry month, than what you initially listed as your preferred start option.

You may wish to consider contacting your referee(s) to assist in the process of obtaining the outstanding reference(s) or alternatively, hold submission of application until references are sourced. Please note that it is not the responsibility of the University Admissions Office to obtain missing reference(s) after our initial email is sent to your nominated referee(s), requesting a reference(s) on your behalf.

The reference can take the form of a letter on official headed paper, or via the University’s standard reference form. Click this link to download the university reference form.

Alternatively, referees can email a reference from their employment email account, please note that references received via private email accounts, (i.e. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail) cannot be accepted.

References can be submitted to pgradmissions@swansea.ac.uk.

How you are Supervised

Find out more about some of the academic staff supervising theses in these areas:

Professor Mark Blagrove

Dr Simon Dymond

Dr Irene Reppa

Dr Kim Drake

Welsh Provision

Tuition Fees

Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
January 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
April 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
July 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
October 2023 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
January 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
April 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
July 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950

Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
January 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
April 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
July 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
October 2023 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
January 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
April 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
July 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000

MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
January 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
October 2023 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
January 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950

MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
October 2023 £ 2,350 £ 10,000

M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
January 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
April 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
July 2023 £ 4,596 £ 19,350
October 2023 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
January 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
April 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950
July 2024 £ 4,700 £ 19,950

M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time

Start Date UK International
October 2022 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
January 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
April 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
July 2023 £ 2,298 £ 9,700
October 2023 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
January 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
April 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000
July 2024 £ 2,350 £ 10,000

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page.

Note: The 2023/2024 UK fee is indicative pending confirmation from UKRI.

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page.

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

Government funding is now available for Welsh, English and EU students starting eligible postgraduate research programmes at Swansea University. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up.

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

  • Travel to and from campus
  • Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
  • Purchase of books or texts
  • Gowns for graduation ceremonies

How to Apply

Details of the application process for research degrees are available here, and you can apply online and track your application status at www.swansea.ac.uk/applyonline.  As part of your application you should include a research proposal outlining your proposed topic of study.  Guidance on writing a research proposal is also available.

You can expect to be interviewed following your application to discuss your topic of research and to demonstrate the necessary level of commitment to your studies and training.

It is advisable that you contact us at pgr-medicinehealthlifescience@swansea.ac.uk before submitting your application. This will ensure we can identify appropriate supervisors, and work with you to refine your proposal.

If you're an international student, find out more about applying for this course at our international student web pages 

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment

UK Applicants – 15th August

EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th November

EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th February

EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th May

EU/International applicants – 15th April

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

PhD Programme Specification

Programme Information
Award Level (Nomenclature) PhD in Psychology
Programme Title Psychology
Director of Postgraduate Research Professor Jaynie Rance
Awarding Body Swansea University
College/School School of Health and Social Care
Subject Area Psychology
Frequency of Intake October, January, April, July
Location

Singleton Campus

Mode of Study

Full/Part time

Duration/Candidature 3/6 years
FHEQ Level 8
External Reference Points QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 8
Regulations Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation N/A
Exit Awards N/A
Language of Study English

 

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary 

This PhD in Psychology at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 100,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva voce). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

  1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
  2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

  • Entry and confirmation of candidature
  • Main body of research
  • Thesis and viva voce

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Assessment

Doctoral researchers for the PhD in Psychology are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 100,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination (viva voce).

Doctoral Researcher Supervision and Support

Doctoral researchers will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the doctoral research journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the  doctoral researcher to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre). 

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme,  doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research through the development of a written thesis.
  • Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship. 
  • Disseminate new knowledge gained through original research or other advanced scholarship via high quality peer reviewed publications within the discipline.
  • Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
  • Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised. 

Attitudes and values

  • Conceptualise, design and implement a project aimed at the generation of new knowledge or applications within Psychology.
  • Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Psychology, often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience.
  • Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

  • Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
  • Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media and events, including conference presentations, seminars and workshops.
  • Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
  • Develop the networks and foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
  • Implement  advanced research skills to a substantial degree of independence.
  • Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

  • Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the Doctoral researcher is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the doctoral researcher’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the doctoral researcher’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system.  

Learning Development 

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/research-with-us/postgraduate-research/pgrdevelopment/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable doctoral researchers to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the School of Health and Social Care and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the doctoral researcher in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the School of Health and Social Care is developing a research culture that aligns with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment

Swansea University’s research environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself. 

In the School of Health and Social Care we are strongly focused on the translation of our research into real-life benefits for users, carers and professionals across the range of health and social care services. In doing so our staffs has long established links with a range of international networks and similar university departments in Europe and around the world, and are committed to building productive relationships with front-line policymakers and practitioners. Some senior researchers have also been embedded within the NHS to ensure healthcare and service provision is developed and informed by high quality robust research.                                                                                                               

Alongside this we play an integral role in the Welsh Government’s research infrastructure, through the Centre for Ageing & Dementia Research, Wales School for Social Care Research and the Welsh Health Economic Support Service, increasing the volume of research taking place within Wales. While some of our PhD programmes form part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales, a pan-Wales collaboration to train top-level social scientists. Our funding also comes from a wide range of prestigious funders such as the Research Councils, European research programmes, Government, Ministry of Defence, professional bodies, private sector and charitable organisations, with the school securing £7.37m of funding across the last three years.

Supporting our staff and students in their research is a range of facilities including  our Health and Wellbeing Academy, which provides healthcare services to the local community, a range of clinical and audiology suites and state-of-the-art research facilities. These include a high density EEG suite, a fully-fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, and over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Career Opportunities

Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (eg postdoctoral research, lecturing), education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. Examples include administrators, counsellors, marketing specialists, and researchers.

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MPhil Programme Specification

Programme Information
Award Level (Nomenclature) MPhil in Psychology
Programme Title Psychology
Director of Postgraduate Research Dr Jaynie Rance
Awarding Body Swansea University
College/School School of Health and Social Care
Subject Area Psychology
Frequency of Intake October, January, April, July
Location

Singleton Campus

Mode of Study

Full/Part time

Duration/Candidature 2/4 years
FHEQ Level 7
External Reference Points QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 7
Regulations Master of Philosophy 
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation N/A
Exit Awards N/A
Language of Study English

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This MPhil in Psychology at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 60,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. 

Programme Aims

This Masters programme will provide students with:

  1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
  2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

  • Entry and confirmation of candidature
  • Main body of research
  • Thesis and viva voce examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 2 years duration full time (4 years duration part time). Students may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Assessment

Students for the Masters in Psychology are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 60,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination (viva voce).

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre).

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge through the development of a written thesis.
  • Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship.  
  • Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
  • Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised.

Attitudes and values

  • Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Psychology often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience. 
  • Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

  • Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
  • Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media.
  • Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and academic enquiry.
  • Develop the foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
  • Implement independent research skills.
  • Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

  • Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development 

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the School of Health and Social Care and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the School of Health and Social Care is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students

Research Environment 

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

School of Health and Social Care 

In the School of Health and Social Care we are strongly focused on the translation of our research into real-life benefits for users, carers and professionals across the range of health and social care services. In doing so our staff have long established links with a range of international networks and similar university departments in Europe and around the world, and are committed to building productive relationships with front-line policymakers and practitioners. Some senior researchers have also been embedded within the NHS to ensure healthcare and service provision is developed and informed by high quality robust research.                                                                                                         

Alongside this we play an integral role in the Welsh Government’s research infrastructure, through the Centre for Ageing & Dementia Research, Wales School for Social Care Research and the Welsh Health Economic Support Service, increasing the volume of research taking place within Wales. While some of our PhD programmes form part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales, a pan-Wales collaboration to train top-level social scientists. Our funding also comes from a wide range of prestigious funders such as the Research Councils, European research programmes, Government, Ministry of Defence, professional bodies, private sector and charitable organisations, with the school securing £7.37m of funding across the last three years.

Supporting our staff and students in their research is a range of facilities including  our Health and Wellbeing Academy, which provides healthcare services to the local community, a range of clinical and audiology suites and state-of-the-art research facilities. These include a high density EEG suite, a fully-fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, and over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Career Opportunities

Having a Master of Philosophy degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MSc by Research Programme Specification

Programme Information
Award Level (Nomenclature) MSc by Research in Psychology
Programme Title Psychology
Director of Postgraduate Research Dr Jaynie Rance
Awarding Body Swansea University
College/School School of Health and Social Care
Subject Area Psychology
Frequency of Intake October, January, April, June
Location

Singleton Campus

Mode of Study

Full/Part time

Duration/Candidature 1/2 years
FHEQ Level 7
External Reference Points QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 7
Regulations Degree of Master’s by Research 
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation N/A
Exit Awards N/A
Language of Study English

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This MSc by Research in Psychology at Swansea will enable you to undertake a research project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can enable a future career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 40,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. 

Programme Aims

This Masters programme will provide students with:

  1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
  2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis
  3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

  • Entry and confirmation of candidature
  • Main body of research
  • Thesis and viva voce examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 1 year duration full time (2 years duration part time). 

Assessment

Students for the Masters by Research in Psychology are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The word limit is 40,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination (viva voce).

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre).

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Critically reflect on the existing knowledge base, current problems and/or new insights, in the field of Psychology.
  • Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.
  • Apply research skills, methodologies and subject theory to the practice of research.
  • Create, interpret and analyse knowledge in the specific field of study through original research.  

Attitudes and values

  • Undertake research tasks and make informed judgements with minimum guidance. 
  • Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

  • Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
  • Approach and resolve complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • Evaluate and apply relevant techniques for research in Psychology.
  • Apply research methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses.
  • Work in groups, presenting conclusions and reflecting difference of opinion.
  • Implement independent research skills.
  • Locate information and apply it to research practice.
  • Design and implement a research project.

Skills and Competencies

  • Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.
  • The exercise of initiative and personal responsibility.
  • Decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations.
  • The independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development 

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the school and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the school is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies.

Research Environment 

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

School of Health and Social Care 

In the School of Health and Social Care we are strongly focused on the translation of our research into real-life benefits for users, carers and professionals across the range of health and social care services. In doing so our staff have long established links with a range of international networks and similar university departments in Europe and around the world, and are committed to building productive relationships with front-line policymakers and practitioners. Some senior researchers have also been embedded within the NHS to ensure healthcare and service provision is developed and informed by high quality robust research.                                                                                                                 

Alongside this we play an integral role in the Welsh Government’s research infrastructure, through the Centre for Ageing & Dementia Research, Wales School for Social Care Research and the Welsh Health Economic Support Service, increasing the volume of research taking place within Wales. While some of our PhD programmes form part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales, a pan-Wales collaboration to train top-level social scientists. Our funding also comes from a wide range of prestigious funders such as the Research Councils, European research programmes, Government, Ministry of Defence, professional bodies, private sector and charitable organisations, with the school securing £7.37m of funding across the last three years.

Supporting our staff and students in their research is a range of facilities including our Health and Wellbeing Academy, which provides healthcare services to the local community, a range of clinical and audiology suites and state-of-the-art research facilities. These include a high density EEG suite, a fully-fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, and over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Career Opportunities

Having a Master’s by research degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

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