Scholarships
The scholarships below are open to international students and those applying from England, Wales and Northern Ireland with a 2.1 or above for a postgraduate course.
Course detail
Start Date
SeptemberDuration
Full-time: 12 months or part-time: 24 monthsAward Title
MScUCAS Code
Apply DirectProgramme Overview
The programme is designed for aspiring researchers and professionals. It provides advanced training in research methodologies, data analyses and practical skills, preparing you for a dynamic career in research or data-driven roles.
This programme offers a blend of core psychology research skills and specialist knowledge, with individualised training in relevant research techniques.
You'll dive deep into the principles of psychology research design and data analysis, before specialising in the specific practical, technical and advanced analysis skills required for completion of your own research project.
You’ll also have the opportunity to gain research lab work experience and to develop real-world applications of your research.
Whether you're aiming for a career in academia or looking to bring advanced research skills to the professional world, this programme will give you the tools you need to succeed.
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MSc and PhD pathways
SGSSS studentships
Abertay’s MSc Research Methods is approved by the Scottish Graduate School of Social Sciences (SGSSS), who administer PhD studentships and research methods training across Scotland. SGSSS studentship-holders can complete both an MSc in Research Methods and a subsequent PhD at Abertay University. If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, please read SGSSS’s studentship competition information (link to: https://www.sgsss.ac.uk/studentships/) and speak to potential PhD supervisors as early as possible.
MSc Research Methods in Creative Industries (for SGSSS-funded students only)
If you are interested in applying social science research to the creative industries and are awarded an SGSSS studentship, you can choose to complete an alternative pathway: MSc Research Methods in Creative Industries. This pathway includes the core Research Methods in Psychology programme but focuses on applying a social science approach to the creative industries (e.g., game design, film), with industry input and supervision by an academic from our renowned Department of Games and Arts.
Transfer to PhD (for non-SGSSS funded students only)
If you successfully complete the MSc Research Methods modules and are interested in pursuing a PhD at Abertay, non-funded students can apply to transfer to PhD Year 2 instead of graduating with the MSc. This would allow you to complete your PhD within a shorter timeframe, a valuable saving.
How we can help you
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Tailored Learning: Our programme is designed to meet your individual needs, with personalised learning paths that adapt to your interests and career goals.
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Academic Expertise: The opportunity to work with leading researchers in developmental psychology, language, forensic psychology, social cognition, vision science, laterality evolutionary psychology and the creative industries.
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Cutting-Edge Skills: Master the latest research techniques, from advanced data analysis to experimental design, preparing you for the future of research.
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Flexible Learning: Enjoy a blend of in-person and online learning, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments.
Your Learning
Throughout this programme, you'll develop:
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A deep understanding of psychology research design and analysis
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Specialised methods relevant to your chosen area of research
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Practical skills in data management, ethical research conduct, and open science practices
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Advanced analytical techniques using state-of-the-art software and tools
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The ability to plan and execute high-quality, publishable research
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Transferable skills in communication, project management, and critical thinking
By choosing our MSc Research Methods in Psychology programme, you'll:
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Prepare for Doctoral Studies: Lay a solid foundation for PhD research, with potential pathways to convert your MSc into the first year of a PhD programme.
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Boost Your Career Prospects: Gain skills highly sought after in both academia and industry, from data science to market research.
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Join a Vibrant Research Community: Become part of Abertay's dynamic research environment, collaborating with leading academics and fellow researchers.
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Make Real-World Impact: Learn how to apply your research skills to solve real-world problems in psychology or creative industries.
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Develop a Global Perspective: Engage with international research contexts and build a global network in your field.
Embark on a journey that will transform your understanding of research and open doors to exciting career opportunities.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have:
- An undergraduate degree (2:1 or better) in Psychology or a related subject (e.g., social science, neuroscience, statistics).
- A desire to develop their skills in a particular area of psychological research.
Applicants will be asked to state their preferred research area and name potential supervisors on application; this will be reviewed by the admissions tutors to ensure suitable supervision can be provided.
We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants across the world.
Typically, international applicants should have:
- The equivalent of a lower second class (2:1) in Psychology or a related subject (e.g, social science, neuroscience, statistics, biology).
- A desire to develop skills in a particular area of psychological research
Applicants will be asked to state their preferred research area and name potential supervisors on application. This will be reviewed by the admissions tutors to ensure suitable supervision can be provided.All courses at Abertay University are taught in English. If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.
Please see English Language Requirements for the full list of accepted qualifications and further details.
For questions about specific entry requirements, please contact admissions@abertay.ac.uk.
For more information on the application process, tuition fees and scholarships, studying in Scotland, and to contact our International Team, please visit our International Students page.
Additional module information for SGSSS-funded students
Students whose MSc is funded by SGSSS (i.e., as part of a 1+3 PhD programme) will complete the SGSSS Core Methods module instead of PSY511.
SGSSS-funded students who are on a Creative Industries pathway will also complete module PSY567: Human Psychology: Why are we different? instead of PSY513.
Module descriptors for both routes can be viewed below.
Frequently asked questions
Explore the common questions asked about the programme.
What are research methods in psychology?
Research methods are the essential tools and techniques used to investigate human behaviour and the mind. Specifically, research methods in Psychology are systematic, scientific techniques that use case studies, observations and surveys to understand human behaviour and thoughts. At Abertay, you will explore:
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Core principles of psychology research design.
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Advanced qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
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Ethical research conduct and open science practices.
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Specialist techniques tailored to specific psychological fields, such as social cognition or forensic psychology.
What does the MSc Research Methods in Psychology involve?
This programme provides advanced training in research methodologies and data analysis. You will engage in:
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A blend of core psychology research skills and specialist knowledge.
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Individualised training in practical and technical research techniques.
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Modules that include Core Data Analysis, Professional Research Skills, and a Research Dissertation.
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Opportunities for work-based learning and research lab experience.
This mix of core research skills and specialist knowledge will help set you up for success.
Is the MSc Research Methods in Psychology a good career choice?
If you’re looking for a career in academia, research or evidence-based psychological practice, this degree is a good starting point.
It equips you with high-demand skills in research design, data science and analytics.
It also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies and develops transferable skills in communication, project management and critical thinking. This opens up a wide variety of career choices once you’ve completed your degree.
How long does it take to complete the MSc Research Methods in Psychology?
The duration of the course will depend on your chosen mode of study. If you opt for full-time, it will take one year to complete. However, if you opt for part-time, it will take 24 months to complete.
This flexibility allows you to balance your studies with other professional or personal commitments.
What careers can I pursue with an MSc in Research Methods in Psychology?
As this degree builds a solid foundation of research methodologies, data analysis and practical research design, it opens up a wide variety of career opportunities, including but not limited to:
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Academic researcher or lecturer
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Data scientist or analyst
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Market researcher
What are the entry requirements for the MSc Research Methods in Psychology?
For a successful application to this programme, you typically need:
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A 2:1 undergraduate degree or better in Psychology or a related subject (e.g., social science, neuroscience, or statistics).
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A clear desire to develop skills in a specific area of psychological research.
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A named potential supervisor and preferred research area identified in your application.
Can I study the MSc Research Methods in Psychology part‑time and full‑time?
Yes, we offer flexible learning options to suit your schedule and needs. You can study this degree part-time over two years, or full-time over one year.
We also offer a blend of in-person and online learning to help you manage your studies alongside your responsibilities.
What kind of research projects will I undertake during this MSc?
During this degree, you will need to do an MSc Dissertation. We offer a wide variety of dissertations from various expert-led research areas, such as:
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Social cognition, development, and education.
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Investigative interviewing and forensic psychology.
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Language learning, evolution, and AI voice perception.
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Human-technology interaction and user experience.
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Evolutionary social psychology and personal relationships.
What facilities or labs will I have access to during the programme?
We are a well-established institution with modern facilities. During your MSc, you will have access to facilities like:
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The Graduate School - A dedicated facility located at the heart of the University that provides support and training to our postgrad students.
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Access to research labs for hands-on work experience.
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Industry-leading tools through Abertay’s status as Scotland’s first Adobe Creative Campus.
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Software for advanced analytical techniques.
Will the MSc Research Methods in Psychology prepare me for a PhD?
Yes, this degree is specifically designed to lay a solid foundation for doctoral research and may potentially provide a pathway to transfer directly into the second year of a PhD at Abertay University.
Meet our Research Supervisors
When applying to Abertay, you must select a research supervisor who you think best suits your own research proposal. Our team are experts in many fields of psychology. Introduce yourself to their research areas below.
Professor Sheila Cunningham
Social cognition, development and education
I supervise research on social cognitive processing, especially stereotyping and self-processing biases. I also supervise projects on how these processes develop in childhood and adolescence, and how they can be applied in education (e.g., supporting learning and subject choices)
Dr Julie Gawrylowicz
Investigative interviewing, eyewitness memory, jury decision-making
I supervise research on factors that impact the reliability of eyewitness testimony and the outcomes of investigative interviews. I am particularly interested in how we can support vulnerable people within the criminal justice system.
Dr Corinne Jola
Dance, empathy, and vulnerable individuals
I supervise qualitative and quantitative research on empathic abilities and embodied practices. My research explores how dance and movement impact on wellbeing, cognitive function, and social connectedness across the lifespan, from childhood through to old age, including those with neurodegenerative disorders like dementia or Parkinson's disease.
Professor Vera Kempe
Language development, language learning, language evolution
I supervise projects that look at how language input influences learning and how this in turn may have shaped the evolution of languages. I am interested in work with learning agents like children, adults, large language models (LLMs) or robots.
Dr Neil Kirk
Cognitive Psychology, dialect and voice perception
I supervise projects that relate to the experiences of speaking your MIND (that is, Minority, Indigenous, Non-standard and Dialect) varieties, which often get forgotten about in psychological research. I am interested in how these varieties are processed, whether they can be replicated by AI voices, and how listeners perceive both natural and synthetic speech.
Dr Janet McLean
Cognition, development and education
I supervise research projects that explore the cognitive processes underlying learning in children and adults, with a focus on maths and language. This includes investigating how attention, memory, and problem-solving skills contribute to learning and how insights from cognitive research can be applied to improve mathematics instruction.
Dr Rebecca Sharman
Neurodiversity and video games
My primary research focus is neurodivergent experiences, identity, and relationships. I also supervise projects on the psychological benefits of playing video games.
Dr Christopher Watkins
Evolutionary social psychology. The psychology of close/personal relationships
My research focuses on social perceptions based on physical characteristics, and factors involved in romantic attraction and pair bonding, drawing on perspectives from evolutionary biology and anthropology, as well as behavioural ecology and cognitive/social psychology. Research in this area sheds light on how we respond to potential dating partners, rivals, friends, and allies/associates.
Dr Lara Wood
Socio-cognitive development, gender, cultural evolution
I supervise research that focusses on applied cultural evolution, predominantly with children and young people. This broad topic includes investigating social learning biases (who do we copy, when, and why), children and adolescent's gender stereotyping and related gender concepts, and young people's epistemic vigilance (who they believe and why) particularly in polarising contexts.
Dr Penny Woolnough
Forensic and investigative psychology
I supervise research on investigative psychology, with a specific interest in major crime investigation relating to missing person investigation and search. I also supervise projects on wider topics relating to forensic psychology (e.g., eyewitness memory; prison officer decision making; mental health and crime) and am passionate about translating research to practice.
Dr Lynn Wright
Laterality, individual differences and pedagogy
I supervise research on individual differences, and have a specific interest in laterality/handedness. I am also interested in pedagogical research, particularly related to higher education, and supervise research projects examining many aspects of student engagement and student experience.
Scotland's first Adobe Creative Campus
All Abertay students have access to Adobe Express, empowering you to enhance digital skills with industry-leading tools.
In late 2024, Abertay proudly became the first institution in Scotland to achieve the designation of Adobe Creative Campus.
The Adobe Creative Campus programme is an initiative involving a select group of colleges and universities dedicated to empowering staff and students across all disciplines with essential digital skills for success in both the workplace and the classroom.
Information for International Applicants
Learn more about Abertay's English language requirements, as well as visa information.
English Language Requirements
Explore English language requirements for entry to Abertay University.
Visa Information
All the information you need about visa requirements for studying here at Abertay University.
International Students
Find everything you need to know about applying to Abertay as an international student.
Fees and Funding
The tuition fees you’ll pay and the funding available depend on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you’re studying. If you’re studying a postgraduate taught (PGT) degree, your fee status will be classed as one of the following:
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Scotland
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England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland
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International
Fee Status
Your fee status is typically based on the country where you’ve lived on a regular, non-temporary basis for the three years prior to the start of your course.
We’ll confirm your tuition fees once you’ve applied.
International
International includes applicants from EU countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled Status in the UK. (Students from the Republic of Ireland are not included.)
Annual Tuition Fees
|
Fee Status |
2025/26 |
2026/27 |
|
£7,900 |
£7,900* |
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£10,400 |
£10,400* |
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£17,000 |
£18,950** |
**Eligible international students will automatically receive a scholarship worth between £3,000-£7,000 over the duration of their course.
More information
Find out about grants, bursaries, maintenance loans and living costs in our postgraduate taught fees and funding section.
Abertay Postgraduate Taught rUK Scholarship
This £1,000 award is open to all prospective new postgraduate students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Abertay International Scholarship
An award of up to £3,000 per year for up to a maximum of four years, for prospective new international undergraduate and postgraduate taught students.
Graduate School
Our Graduate School is a dedicated facility located at the heart of the University, providing support, training and professional development opportunities to our vibrant postgraduate community and researchers.
Join us as a Postgraduate
When you join us as a postgraduate student or researcher, you’ll join a community of creative like-minded scholars. You will be working in our dedicated study and social spaces – a forum in which you can meet, work and learn with other researchers and postgraduates from across the University.
You’ll benefit from training and professional development opportunities, as well as support with funding applications, placement opportunities, teaching support, public engagement and outreach activity.
Explore our Dundee Campus
Abertay is conveniently located on a city centre campus, with all of its buildings within a quarter of a mile of each other. Shops, recreational facilities and the main bus and train stations are a short walk away.
Why Abertay?
We're proud of our students and graduates, and we believe there's no better place to study if you're looking for a degree that helps you stand out as an exceptional candidate in an increasingly competitive job market.
Living in Dundee
Dundee is a city of contrasts. It's vibrant and cosmopolitan, but also friendly, compact and affordable. The first UK city to be awarded UNESCO City of Design status, Dundee has a rich history of innovation and creativity, and, in recent years, has become a hub for the digital industries.
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