Develop the advanced skills needed to become a leading researcher with our research-led MSc. The programme provides rigorous training in experimental methods, statistics, and data science, delivered by internationally recognised researchers in our Department of Psychology. The department is ranked UK number 1 for Research Environment and top 10 for Research Power in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). The programme attracts students from across the world and provides internationally recognised training.
Our research-led MSc offers comprehensive training in research methods within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. Through specialist modules designed and delivered by active researchers, you will develop the methodological, analytical, and critical skills required for careers in research, professional psychology training, and data science. The course also provides an excellent foundation and is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as a key prerequisite for doctoral study, including PhD programmes in psychology and related disciplines, as well as the ClinPsyD.
Develop advanced research skills: You will gain a comprehensive and transferable methodological toolkit through training in both quantitative and qualitative methods. The programme develops expertise in experimental design and research methodology, statistical analysis and data science, as well as data handling, interpretation, and visualisation, and scientific communication and project management. These skills are highly valued in academia, industry, consultancy, and beyond.
Advanced research tools: Learning extends beyond theory. You will gain practical experience with state-of-the-art research facilities and experimental techniques. This includes behavioural experimentation laboratories, EEG, MRI, neurostimulation (tDCS, TMS), fNIRS, eye-tracking, and psychophysics. Small-group teaching, workshops and laboratory sessions ensure you develop both theoretical understanding and practical expertise.
Specialise for your dissertation: A major component of the programme is your independent research dissertation. You will design and conduct an original research project aligned with your interests, guided by expert academic staff. Research opportunities span multiple departmental themes including Language, Cognition, and Brain Science (including Neuroscience), Clinical Psychology, Appetitive and Addictive Behaviours, Applied Forensic and Conflict, and Lifespan, Health and Wellbeing. You will also benefit from collaboration across the Institute of Population Health and other faculties, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary research.
Research environment: Become part of a vibrant and internationally recognised research community. You will have opportunities to engage with departmental research seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects, gaining insight into cutting-edge developments across psychology. This research-rich environment allows you to interact with leading academics and develop the skills required for independent research.
Professional partnerships: The programme benefits from strong collaborations with organisations such as Unilever and Liverpool Health Partners, alongside partnerships with mental health hospitals, prisons, schools, and NHS trusts including The Walton Centre. These partnerships create opportunities to engage with real-world research environments and enhance your academic and professional development.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH METHODS AND STATISTICS (PSYC640) | 30 |
| PRACTICAL RESEARCH SKILLS (PSYC644) | 30 |
| RESEARCH DISSERTATION IN PSYCHOLOGY (PSYC646) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| ADVANCED EXPERIMENTAL METHODS (PSYC641) | 30 |
| ADVANCED STATISTICS AND METHODS (PSYC643) | 30 |
| RESEARCH DISSERTATION IN PSYCHOLOGY (PSYC646) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
You will complete your final project over the summer.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH DISSERTATION IN PSYCHOLOGY (PSYC646) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching is face to face, delivered by top-class researchers from day one. You will be taught in numerous laboratories equipped with advanced technologies such as eye-trackers, EEG or fNIRS.
You will be assesed using a range of assessments from research grant proposals to in-class statistical tests to essays, as well as completing your research project over the summer.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
If you enrol on a master’s degree and complete 60 credits you may be able to exit the programme early and earn a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) for the work you have completed. This usually amounts to one semester when completed full-time.
If you enrol on a master’s degree and have completed 120 credits you may be able to exit the programme early and earn a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) for the work completed. This usually amounts to two full semesters when completed full-time, without having to complete the final dissertation module.
The group of highly selected students on this course are taught by experts from the Department of Psychology. Staff in the department are highly active and conduct internationally renowned research.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Graduates of this programme pursue a wide range of careers. Many progress to doctoral study, including PhD and ClinPsyD, whilst others enter roles in academic research, behavioural and data science, healthcare and clinical research, public policy and government, or industry and consultancy. The advanced methodological training provided by this MSc equips graduates with highly transferable analytical and research skills. The MSc is also eligible for ESRC 1+3 studentships linked to a doctoral programme.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £13,000
Full-time place, per year - £32,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Studying a masters in any subject and aspiring to a career using data and digital skills in the public sector or within public missions such as health, renewable energy or climate change ? If you live in the Liverpool City Region, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000. Two awards are available per academic year.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements |
|
| International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 100 overall, with minimum scores of listening 21, writing 21, reading 21 and speaking 23. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 5 overall, with 4.5 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 135 overall, with writing not less than 140, speaking and reading not less than 125, and listening not below 120. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 130 overall, with no component below 120. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 69 overall, with no component below 61 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 75 overall, with no skill below 70 |
| PSI Skills for English | C1 Pass in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 16 March 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions