MSc Psychiatric Research

The MSc in Psychiatric Research is ideal for graduates from psychology, neuroscience, medicine, and related disciplines who want to advance their expertise in mental health research. The programme explores psychological, neurobiological and environmental mechanisms underlying mental health, and examines how new interventions are developed, evaluated and implemented. Students gain deep understanding of psychiatric conditions, alongside rigorous academic and technical skills, learning to apply a critical, evidence-based approach to research. Throughout the course, we foster confidence, independence, and a broad set of transferrable skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in research (including PhD programmes and research roles in academia), clinical practice, healthcare innovation, policy, and beyond.
Research into mental health disorders combines expertise from a vast number of areas, so we welcome students from psychology, neuroscience, pharmacology, medicine and other disciplines.

Our experts will give you a unique insight into the complex world of mental health. The teaching team are active researchers uncovering the causes of disorders and finding treatments, and many also work in clinical settings.

In our Research Methods, Ethics and Statistics in Mental Health module, students gain an advanced understanding of ethical and methodological principles in designing and conducting research and become proficient in the associated statistical techniques.

The Biological Psychiatry module explores the biological basis of psychiatric disorders. Using current examples, students learn about how research can reveal the processes that lead to poor mental health and how this knowledge can be used to improve treatments.

In the Therapeutic Research in Psychiatry module students gain a deep understanding of how new therapies are developed ‘bench to bedside’ - from basic science, biological psychiatry, or epidemiological research into clinical practice and treating patients.

During the Dissertation module, students carry out their own original research project, supervised by a member of IoPPN staff. This provides an opportunity to apply your knowledge and study an area that interests you in greater detail.

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and practical sessions. This is a relatively small and friendly course and students are well-supported throughout their studies.

“As a world-leading centre for mental health research, the IoPPN provides a superb environment for studying the MSc Psychiatric Research and developing your future career working in this important area.”

Professor Alice Egerton, Course Leader