University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This MSc combines core health-psychology theory with applied research methods and practical skills. You study how psychological, social and behavioural factors influence physical and mental health and how interventions are designed, evaluated and implemented.

• Core theory in health psychology: models of health behaviour, illness beliefs, patient–professional communication, coping and adjustment to long-term conditions.
• Research methods and statistics: quantitative and qualitative methods, advanced statistics, research design, measurement and critical appraisal skills necessary for independent research and evaluation.
• Intervention development and evaluation: behaviour-change techniques, implementation science, health promotion strategies and outcome measurement.
• Applied modules: topics such as chronic disease self-management, pain, health across the life-course, and psychological aspects of clinical conditions—content may vary by year.
• Research project / dissertation: an independent empirical or applied project supervised by academic staff, often with opportunities to work with NHS or community partners.
• Optional learning opportunities: seminars, journal clubs, and opportunities for placement or collaborative work with local health services and research centres where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree at 2:1 or above in psychology accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) or an international equivalent. Graduates in related disciplines with substantial relevant experience and demonstrable quantitative/research skills may also be considered; such applicants should check whether conversion prerequisites apply.

• Academic: a background in psychology is normally required for Stage 1 eligibility; non-psychology graduates may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
• Experience: relevant research, clinical, voluntary or public-health experience strengthens an application.
• English language: international applicants must meet the University's English-language requirements.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining your interest and experience in health psychology and one or two academic or professional references are usually required.

Career prospects

Graduates use the MSc as a stepping stone to diverse careers across health, academia and the third sector. The programme provides knowledge and research skills valued by employers in healthcare, public health and policy.

• Clinical and applied roles: health psychology practitioner training (progressing to Stage 2), behaviour-change practitioner posts, psychological wellbeing services and long-term condition management programmes.
• Research and academic careers: PhD study, research assistant or coordinator roles in university, NHS or independent research organisations.
• Public health and policy: health promotion, commissioning, service evaluation and design roles within local authorities, public-health teams and charities.
• Private and commercial sectors: health consultancy, medical communications, pharmaceutical industry roles focused on patient behaviour and adherence, and roles in digital health and wellbeing technology.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a research-led environment with active groups working on behaviour change, clinical health psychology and applied public-health problems. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across psychology, medicine and population health sciences.

• Close links with local NHS trusts and public-health agencies provide opportunities for applied projects, placements and access to clinical populations.
• Experienced academic staff combine strong research profiles with applied expertise in intervention development, health services research and evaluation.
• Facilities include well-equipped research and statistics support, specialised laboratories and training in advanced analytic techniques.
• The programme is designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical research and communication skills valued by employers and necessary for further professional training.