ObjectivesThe aims of the course are to develop critical skills in the evaluation and analysis of current research, theory and practice in psychology and education, foster an ethos of independent and co-operative learning and research, and to provide students with the Graduate Basis for Registration from the British Psychological Society. Graduate Basis for Registration is the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist (NB: the Diploma is not accredited to confer GBR). The MEd is currently accredited to confer GBR until 2008.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements: A good honours degree (minimum 2:1 classification), or the overseas equivalent, in any discipline is required. In addition, a foundation in psychology (60 credits or equivalent of undergraduate psychology) is mandatory.
Academic titlePsychology of Education MEd
Course descriptionThe course is intended to bring graduates from other disciplines up to the academic standard of an honours degree in psychology, provided that at least six months of psychology at undergraduate level has been completed prior to the start of the course (see 'Entry Requirements'). It demonstrates how the core areas of psychology (developmental, social, cognitive, psychobiology, individual differences, research methods) can be applied in educational settings. It is therefore and excellent starting point for individuals wishing to pursue a career in educational psychology. However, it should be noted that the MEd does not qualify you to practice as an educational psychologist. Individuals wishing to practice as an educational psychologist also need to complete the Doctorate in Applied Educational Psychology.
Career opportunities
As the MEd confers GBR from the British Psychological Society, the main career pathway for graduates is professional training as a psychologist (e.g. Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology), and we have a good conversion rate in this regard (e.g. 3 of the 12 students offered places on the aforementioned Doctorate at Manchester for 2006/7 had previously studied the MEd; a number of our students also secured places on the Doctorate at other institutions). However, many of our alumni also go on to work as assistant psychologists or related positions (e.g. child and adolescent mental health worker). Finally, a small number of students go on to study for a doctorate by research (PhD) in educational psychology (which in itself opens a career pathway to working as a researcher or lecturer in higher education)