Course Description

The MSc Psychology Conversion Degree (BPS) at Arden University is designed for individuals seeking to develop or transition into a career in psychology, or for those who have a deep interest in understanding human behaviour. This postgraduate conversion course provides a solid foundation in psychological principles and research, granting eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) status upon successful completion. The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), enabling graduates to apply for membership and use the post-nominal letters GMBPsS.

Throughout the programme, students will explore contemporary issues in psychology, studying human development across the lifespan, examining mental health, and investigating the relationship between brain processes and behaviour. This online learning environment combines academic excellence with flexibility, allowing students to study from anywhere while engaging with expert tutors and peers worldwide.

What You Will Learn
The course covers a broad range of psychological topics and research methods essential for professional practice. Students will:

  • Study the human lifespan from childhood through to old age.
  • Examine current developments and controversies in mental health, personality, and intelligence research.
  • Explore cognitive, biological, and social psychology.
  • Understand psychological theories and their applications to real-world contexts.
  • Develop strong research and analytical skills applicable to professional practice.

Why study this course?

  • Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), ensuring international recognition and a pathway towards professional psychology training.
  • Offers Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC), an essential step for pursuing further postgraduate training in psychology.
  • Delivered entirely online, providing flexibility and convenience for working professionals and international students.
  • Access to a global academic community, including guest speakers, research assistant opportunities, and professional interest groups.
  • Gain transferrable skills valuable in various sectors such as human resources, education, counselling, and healthcare.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark. You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future. All of our assessments, rather than tests, are intended to help you build practical skills for your future profession. That is why we use a variety of approaches to monitor your development. These are the prerequisites for the psychology conversion master's degree:

  • Research projects and dissertations
  • Case studies and written assignments
  • Presentations and reflective portfolios

Modules

  • Research Methods in Psychology
  • Cognitive and Biological Psychology
  • Social and Developmental Psychology

  • Personality and Individual Differences
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing
  • Empirical Project (Dissertation)

Study & Career Progression

This course opens a wide range of career opportunities in both psychology-specific and related fields. Graduates may pursue roles such as:

  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Human Resource Manager
  • Counsellor or Support Worker
  • Educational or Occupational Psychologist (with further study)
  • Researcher or Academic

Additionally, graduates who achieve GBC status can progress towards professional training routes such as clinical, educational, or forensic psychology, or pursue doctoral-level research in psychology or related disciplines.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan, it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.

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