Today, we’ll explore the Psychology Conversion MSc, an accelerated and intense one-year programme that opens doors to a multitude of career opportunities in the field of psychology. I’m Samantha Buss, a present MSc Psychology (Conversion) student, and I am excited to share my experiences and knowledge with you.
Accredited Course
The Psychology Conversion MSc at Surrey is a one-year program designed to fast-track individuals into the world of psychology. Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), this course provides an intensive and comprehensive overview of key psychological concepts, preparing students for a successful career in various psychological fields.
Course Structure
The curriculum is robust, covering essential aspects of psychology. From research methods to understanding brain and behavior, social psychology, cognitive psychology, personality, intelligence, and psychopathology, each module contributes to a holistic understanding of the subject. The culmination of the program is an in-depth dissertation, allowing students to showcase their research skills with an 8,000-10,000-word project.
Research Assistant Opportunities
One of the highlights of the programme is the opportunity to work as a research assistant. For my dissertation, I explored emotions elicited while watching films, the influence of depression and anxiety, whilst EEG technology. Currently, I’m engaged with the translation centre, making films more accessible for individuals with Specific Learning Difficulties (SPLDs).
Facilities
Surrey’s commitment to providing students with the best resources is evident in its recent £5 million investment in facilities. The department boasts a Virtual Reality (VR) suite, observation labs, EEG, transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), eye-tracking devices, and various physiological measurement tools. The extensive library of psychometric and clinical tests further enriches the learning experience.
Supportive Faculty
The psychology department at Surrey is known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere. Personal tutor support ensures that every student receives guidance tailored to their needs. While conversion students attend lectures with all years across the university, seminars are conducted exclusively for master’s students, fostering a close-knit community.
Research Centres and Groups
As a Psychology Conversion student, I am proud to be part of the Surrey Social Brain and Development Lab Group. Led by renowned researchers, our group explores the intricacies of social cognition. You can learn more about our exciting projects here. There are various other groups to join depending on your interests and dissertation piece.
Career Prospects
The University of Surrey’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers extends beyond the academic realm. The university’s career team provides unparalleled support, organising career fairs both internal and external to the department. The programme opens doors to diverse career paths, including:
- Clinical Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Occupational Psychology
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Counselling and Therapy
- Opportunities in the NHS, trusts, charities, and organizations
- Transferable skills for roles in advertising, consultancy, HR, recruitment, and teaching
Embarking on the Psychology Conversion MSc journey at the University of Surrey is not just an educational endeavour; it is a pathway to unlocking the doors of opportunity in the dynamic and rewarding field of psychology.
