MSc (by Dissertation) Psychology at University of Essex

Programme overview

The Masters by Dissertation (MSD) in Psychology lets students work one-to-one with an academic supervisor to design, conduct and write up a psychological study, with supervision in cognitive psychology, social and cognitive neuroscience, social psychology and developmental psychology.

Department: Department of Psychology | Duration: 1 to 2 years full-time; part-time also available | Intake: January 2027 (can also start in October or April) | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students submit a dissertation of up to 30,000 words and follow a clear path to completion within one year.

Career pathways

Graduates have been employed in clinical, educational, criminal and forensic psychology; many go on to a PhD and research, academic or clinical careers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A high lower second class honours degree (2:2) or equivalent in psychology or a related subject. Applicants are normally interviewed, and acceptance depends on research expertise in the department. English language (international applicants): IELTS 7.0 overall with at least 5.5 in all other components, or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year. Home/UK fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 23,625 a year. International fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

Intake: January 2027 (can also start in October or April)

Duration: 1 to 2 years full-time; part-time also available

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