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Psychology
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Postgraduate Study

The Department of Psychology offers PhD (3 to 3.5 years depending on funding scheme) and Master’s (1 year) research degrees (full time or part time). These research degrees offer the unique opportunity to tackle research questions at the forefront of psychological science. Students will be supervised by world-leading experts in their field of study and will be part of a thriving community of researchers within the department. Students are active members of their research groups (Cognitive Neuroscience, Development Science and Quantitative Social Psychology) and benefit from a large range of opportunities to present and discuss work with their colleagues in seminars and research workshops. Research degrees are examined by writing a thesis and, in the case of a PhD, students undertake a viva (oral) examination. In addition to research work, students have the opportunity to undertake some teaching in order to gain valuable teaching experience. The university also offers a wide range of training and personal development courses. Students who are interested in undertaking post-graduate research are encouraged to approach members of staff within their field of interest to discuss and to develop potential research projects suitable for PhD or Master’s by research degrees. 

  • Taught Courses

    The Department of Psychology offers one-year taught Master's courses, each delivered by a group of staff specialising in the area of study.
    Durham students concentrating in a lecture

  • Research Degrees

    The Department of Psychology offers PhD (3 to 3.5 years depending on funding scheme) and Master’s (1 year) research degrees (full time or part time). These research degrees offer the unique opportunity to tackle research questions at the forefront of psychological science.
    Two level three students examining brain image on large screen in Teaching and Learning Centre

Taught Courses

The Department of Psychology offers one-year taught Master's courses, each delivered by a group of staff specialising in the area of study.
Durham students concentrating in a lecture

Research Degrees

The Department of Psychology offers PhD (3 to 3.5 years depending on funding scheme) and Master’s (1 year) research degrees (full time or part time). These research degrees offer the unique opportunity to tackle research questions at the forefront of psychological science.
Two level three students examining brain image on large screen in Teaching and Learning Centre
Funding for Postgraduate studies
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Executive MSc in Behavioural Science

Master the Science of Behaviour Change. Transform your career and organisation with the Executive MSc in Behavioural Science.

The modern workplace requires constant behaviour change and adaption. As we continue to evolve ways of working across the globe, this becomes ever more important.

Our exciting programme is for ambitious professionals who have at least two years of relevant post-graduation work experience in roles that demonstrate responsibility.

Learn more
'My MSc training allowed me to go beyond theory taught by experts in their field, to utilise skills and knowledge in an applied way. Using the fantastic facilities available in the department has been truly inspirational and directly led to my decision to carry out a PhD.'
Dr Helen Knight
Durham University
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Postgraduate Scholarships

Are you a UK student and thinking about postgraduate study? We have a range of support available including our Postgraduate Student Support Scholarship, Dean’s Scholarship and Alumni Fee Scholarship.

Find out more and apply