Course overview
Advance your specialist knowledge and professional capability.
Build the core research and subject knowledge required for a new direction in psychology on a BPS-accredited online conversion course.
Course overview
Designed for graduates who are new to psychology, this conversion MSc starts with contemporary research methods before exploring social, cognitive, developmental and biological psychology. Successful completion provides eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society, subject to BPS rules.
Study options
The course is delivered fully online through Arden's digital learning environment, with flexible access to learning materials and scheduled academic support.
Professional focus
Teaching and assessment connect postgraduate theory with current professional practice, applied problem-solving and independent research.
Curriculum
Review the complete master's module structure.
01Master's modules
180 credits
180 credits
Master's modules
180 credits
- Research Methods20 credits
- Social Psychology20 credits
- Behavioural Neuroscience20 credits
- Individual Differences and Mental Health20 credits
- Lifespan Development20 credits
- Cognitive Psychology20 credits
- Advanced Research Project60 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Quantitative and qualitative empirical research reports
Research proposal
Reflective writing and literature review
Case study, poster and presentation
Dissertation or empirical journal article
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic and professional entry
- A UK honours degree or equivalent in any subject at 2:2 or above. A psychology degree must not already be BPS accredited.
- A third-class UK honours degree in psychology may be considered when accompanied by a master's-level qualification.
- Applicants whose degree does not carry honours must evidence independent research through a dissertation, thesis or comparable project.
- GCSE Mathematics at grade C or above, an accepted equivalent, or completion of Arden's mathematics mini-module.
English language
- IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0, TOEFL iBT 90, or an accepted equivalent.
- Previous study completed in English may be accepted with suitable evidence of the medium of instruction.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Arden states that quoted fees relate to the intake on which the student enrols, not the application date.
Promotional awards and offers are subject to Arden's terms and conditions and may change or expire.
Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be charged the fee associated with their home country.
Funding your study
Eligible students may be able to use postgraduate Student Finance funding. The exact loan amount and personal eligibility should be confirmed before enrolment.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Eligible graduates can gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the BPS, subject to BPS requirements.
Complete a 60-credit Advanced Research Project.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career directions
- Assistant psychologist
- Mental health services
- Psychological research
- Human resources
- Education
- Further professional psychology training
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Can I study this course online?
Yes. Arden currently lists an online route for this course.
Is UK-campus study available?
No UK-campus route is currently listed for this course.
When can I start?
The current application options list October 2026. Availability should be confirmed before application.
Who awards the degree?
The degree is awarded by Arden University.