Psychological Well-being MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert

The MSc consists of theoretical, work-related and research-based modules as described below. Please note that ALL modules are compulsory for successful completion of the award. There are no optional modules.

• Approaches to the Study of Well-being (15 credits) - provides an introduction to the study of mental health and well-being from a variety of perspectives including: evolution and development, physiology and neuroscience, philosophy and positive psychology
• Well-being Through the Lifespan (15 credits) - extends the study of psychological perspectives on well-being and explores influences on, and potential threats to, psychological well-being at key stages throughout the lifespan (e.g., in childhood, at work, in older age)
• Lifestyle, Wellness and Well-being (15 credits) - relates to national and international initiatives concerned with the maintenance of physical health and well-being, exploring the effects of lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, drinking alcohol, drug use, eating behaviour) on physical and psychological well-being
• Well-being in Cultural, Economic and Social Contexts (15 credits) - focuses on well-being within a broader, rather than individual, framework. You will explore the cultural context of well-being in addition to social and economic influences and considerations
• Approaches to Psychological Problems (30 credits) - considers decreased well-being as manifested in psychological problems, including anxiety disorders, depressive illness and substance abuse. A variety of psychotherapeutic approaches are explored and you will take part in two short placement activities that involve interactions with clients and health and social care professionals.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis for Psychologists (30 credits) - equips you with the quantitative and qualitative research and data analysis skills necessary to undertake research at MSc level
• Research dissertation (60 credits) - allows you to design and conduct an original research study on a well-being related topic of your choice.

You also have the opportunity to undertake one of two combinations of modules and exit with a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert), or undertake all modules, except the dissertation and exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip); as well as completing the full MSc programme.

Teaching typically includes lectures, group seminars and individual tutorials, You are encouraged to become an independent and proactive learner, and we will recommend reading and electronic resources for independent study to help develop the breadth and depth of your knowledge.

The majority of your studies will take place at the university but we also incorporate community-based learning experiences on your placement activities. There is a significant focus on developing skills that are transferable to a variety of careers and contexts on national and international levels.

Learning activities are designed to help you develop your teamwork, presentation and problem-solving skills, plus more traditional academic skills such as synthesis, evaluation and application. We also help you to develop your skills and understanding in professional areas such as ethics and reflective practice.

You will benefit from the support of a personal academic tutor, who you are encouraged to meet with regularly. We also offer a range of additional support services to help you develop the skills required for Master’s level study.

Assessment is based exclusively on coursework, for which bespoke guidance materials are provided. The kinds of coursework that you will undertake are varied, and include:

• Formal essays
• The production of research reports
• Real-time and web-based presentations
• Problem-solving tasks
• Literature reviews
• Case studies and reflective writing

The dissertation provides you with an experience of the research process from its inception to completion.

Contact hours in a typical week will depend to some extent on the optional modules you choose to study. However, typically you will have up to 9 contact hours of teaching and this will break down as:

Personal tutorial/small group teaching: 1 hour of tutorials (or later, project supervision) each week

Medium group teaching: 4 hours of practical classes, workshops or seminars each week

Large group teaching: 4 hours of lectures each week

Personal study: 28.5 hours studying and revising in your own time each week, including some guided study using hand-outs and online activities.