Master of Science (MSc) Applied Psychology

Overview

This programme is suited to graduates who hold a first qualification in Psychology of an upper Second Class Honours (2.1) at NFQ Level 8 or above accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland or show eligibility for accreditation by the Psychological Society of Ireland.

Key Features of the Programme

The programme will provide learners with an insight into the field of applied psychology, thus developing the competencies and skills required to relate theory to practical applications. The learner will explore various theories of psychology that will enable them to understand human behaviour from individual, social and biological perspectives.

The programme is comprised of both core modules and elective modules. Elective modules form two distinct career pathways in the areas of organisational psychology and health psychology.

Central to this programme are the areas of analysis, intervention, application, evaluation and research. There is a strong focus on ethics, professional skills and personal development.

Upon completion of the programme learners will be able to competently investigate contemporary local and global issues using an applied psychological perspective and design solutions to match.

Entry Requirements

A first qualification in Psychology of an upper Second Class Honours (2.1) at NFQ Level 8 or above accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland or show eligibility for accreditation by the Psychological Society of Ireland. (In exceptional cases, the college may accept a lower Second-class Honours degree in Psychology on the basis of an interview).

For applicants whose first language is not English, the minimum English language requirement for entry to the programme is IELTS score 6.5 (or equivalent).

Course Content

The Master of Science (MSc) Applied Psychology has the following content:

Core Modules

• • Applied Neuroscience
  • Life Transitions and Interventions
  • Professional Issues and Ethics in Applied Psychology
  • Advanced Research Methods and Analysis
  • Dissertation

Electives

Choose 2 of the following 4:

• • Occupational Health Psychology
  • Addiction and Rehabilitation
  • The Psychology of Motivation and Productivity
  • The Psychological Practitioner and the Therapeutic Relationship

Choose 2 of the following 4:

• • Psychometrics and Psychometric Assessment
  • Public and Community Health
  • Leadership and Organisational Development
  • Positive Psychology in Practice

Assessment

Subjects will be assessed through a combination of end of semester examination and continuous assessment. In keeping with the emphasis on skills development and application in the programme, the assessment methods will require learners to demonstrate proficiency in appropriate areas, apply their learning and practical skills to provide solutions to practical issues, and demonstrate clear understanding and critical awareness of core concepts. Learners will also be exposed to guest lecturers from a variety of subject areas within psychology.

Structure

• Full-time

For full-time learners, the taught component comprises four mandatory modules, delivered over one academic year, comprising two semesters. The taught component also comprises eight elective modules, of which the learner chooses four. These elective modules are delivered over a semester; two elective modules per semester. Successful completion of the taught component stage allows the learner to move on to the dissertation stage.

• Part-time

For part-time learners, delivery of the taught component is structured over four taught semesters. During each semester, learners will normally attend lectures on two evenings per week.

Career Opportunities

Holders of the MSc in Applied Psychology will be open to careers in areas such as research and evaluation posts, teaching/lecturing and human resource management, as well as market research, social policy advocates, administrative positions, health care settings and training and development specialists. The programme may also appeal to those learners keen to pursue further post graduate studies in the field of psychology.

Fees

The course fees for the next academic year are €8,700 full-time, €5,390 per annum part-time or €6,300 for both full-time and part-time (16 months) higher diploma programmes.This covers the cost of tuition, registration and examinations.

Visit Us

Open days are a great way to help you make your decision about DBS and learn more about the Master of Science (MSc) Applied Psychology. As well as experiencing our outstanding facilities, you’ll have the opportunity to receive personalised advice from academics from your subject area, meet current postgraduate students and also have your questions answered on general subjects such as entry requirements, student support and the admissions process.