Why study this course?
Applications for this course have now closed for 2025 entry but will re-open for 2026. If you are interested in applying for this course at a future date, please register your interest.
- This course is a conversion route for students who hold an undergraduate Honours degree in a subject other than psychology and who wish to change their career path to include psychology.
- The course equips students with the necessary skills to pursue a research degree at MPhil or PhD level in psychology or to go on to a clinical training programme.
- Students have access to laboratories in neurophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychophysics, animal learning and cognition, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology and social psychology.
- The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society. BPS accreditation is both an important hallmark of quality that is extensively acknowledged by employers in the field, and an essential stepping-stone for students who are looking to progress to become a chartered psychologist after graduation. Taking a BPS-accredited course is necessary if you wish to pursue a career in psychology or in the wider psychological workforce.
Teaching
Delivered through lectures, tutorials, workshops, and seminars.
Class sizes
Groups range from 25 to 150 students.
Dissertation
A 15,000-word project with regular support.
Assessment
Coursework only.
Modules
Over two semesters, students will take nine modules covering fundamental aspects of psychology.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
The MSc focuses on psychology as a science rather than as a clinical service, but many graduates pursue careers by obtaining research assistantships at teaching hospitals or other mental health centres or by taking a second Masters degree specialising in mental health.
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. Our Careers Centre can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development. The University’s Entrepreneurship Centre offers start-up support for those looking to freelance as well as create their own business.
Further your education
Most students intend to pursue a career in research or clinical psychology, so many graduates go on to research assistantships or PhD places. Others have obtained positions in government, healthcare, or business.
Why St Andrews?
Events
The School of Psychology and Neuroscience hosts a weekly seminar programme typically held in the Old Library of the Psychology Building.
These seminars include public lectures, open School discussions and papers presented by a variety of guest lecturers from the UK and abroad. Following the seminar, a reception is typically held in the departmental common room.
The School also hosts an annual Jeeves Lecture as part of its seminar programme. The lectures are given by eminent psychologists and neuroscientists. Staff, students and members of the public are welcome at this lecture.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology. If you already possess an undergraduate degree in Psychology, there is a range of other psychology postgraduate programmes. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- Some knowledge of very basic mathematics is required for understanding the statistical techniques introduced in the programme. In most cases, secondary school algebra is sufficient.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV
- personal statement (500 words)
- sample of your own, single-authored academic written work (2,000 words)
- two original signed academic references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £29,990
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 14 March 2025
