MSc (Health Psychology)

Course details

The MSc (Health Psychology) is a programme of academic study in the discipline of health psychology.

Health Psychology is concerned with the application of psychological theory, research, and practice to the promotion and maintenance of health; the identification and amelioration of psychological factors contributing to physical illness and the improvement of the health care system and formulation of health policy.

This programme is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). Programme staff are active in developing and promoting health psychology in Ireland and internationally. A number of internationally recognised health psychologists contribute to the programme through a series of visiting specialist seminars. It is intended for psychology graduates seeking to develop their knowledge and expertise in Health Psychology. The MSc will enable students to conduct high quality research and will prepare them to undertake further professional training in health psyhology and other areas of psychology.

Key facts

Entry requirements

This programme is intended for graduates with at least an upper second class honours (or equivalent international qualification) primary degree in psychology. The degree should be accredited by the PSI, or should be an equivalent international qualification.

Course outline

The course is concerned with the application of psychological theory, methods and research to health, illness and healthcare.

Modules included on the programme are:

• Models of Health-Related Behaviour and Cognition
• Research Methods in Psychology
• Foundations of Health Psychology
• Psychosomatic Influences on Health
• Health Psychology in Applied Settings
• Current Issues in Health Psychology
• Research Seminar
• Minor Dissertation

The modules cover a wide variety of topics including adjustment to chronic illness, doctor-patient communication, management of chronic pain and the nature of stress and its psychobiological consequences. Students also take classes in research methods in health psychology and carry out an empirical research project in a health-related area. In addition, they have the opportunity to attend research seminars given by international experts in the field of health psychology.

Requirements and assessment

Semester One exams: December. Semester Two exams: April/May. A minor dissertation is submitted at the end of the summer semester. A range of assessment methods are used, including essays, projects, reports, presentations and written examination.