Research Project in Health Psychology

It is intrinsic to the award of MSc that you present evidence of their capacity to conduct a substantial piece of independent research that builds clearly upon their prior learning and which draws upon appropriate methodologies.  The aim of this triple module is to allow you to identify a research issue, review existing literature on the topic, formulate novel research questions and test these questions through the application of contemporary psychological methodologies and appropriate data analysis and scientific write-up.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:

• Design a piece of health psychology research and demonstrate awareness of and competence in applying all relevant ethical guidelines and principles
• Demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate relevant contemporary and classic sources relevant to the specified research question or hypothesis
• Conduct a feasible and ethical empirical study to address novel research question(s) and analyse and interpret the findings of the study to form coherent conclusions about the research question(s)
• Present your findings in a way that is consistent with the standards of presentation and clarity expected of a professional research report within the field of health psychology
• Present your findings in a way that is consistent with the standards of an oral presentation within the field of professional health psychology.

For each student the content of the module is largely defined by the scope and nature of your research question and its investigation.  The programme team will help you explore and discuss topics prior to final decision as to the Independent Studies to be undertaken.  Examples titles of an appropriate piece of research in Health Psychology could include:

• Adolescent Smoking and Friendship Groups: The Mediating Role of Parenting Style
• Stages of Change and Condom Use in a Heterosexual University Population
• The Role of Perceived Social Support in the Management of Type II Diabetes Mellitus.

This is a triple module worth 60 credits.