MSc Business Psychology

Year 1

(Award available for year: Master of Science)

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course students should:

i. Be able to describe and critically compare, evaluate and apply the theories, concepts, empirical research and current issues from the domain of business psychology and management.
ii. Be able to communicate a good awareness of current debates and controversies relevant to Business Psychologists through critical appraisal of empirical and theoretical research and case studies.
iii. Be able to demonstrate a detailed and critical awareness of research design, and be able to apply this knowledge practically in order to gain insight into real-world business problems and challenges.
iv. Be able to appraise the relative strengths and weaknesses of different qualitative and quantitative methodologies, and apply this knowledge in designing and managing applied research.
v. Be able to apply technical and analytical skills, together with conceptual knowledge from organizational psychology and management, in order to competently identify key issues and problems businesses face, formulate and implement solutions, and evaluate outcomes.
vi. Be able to present complex ideas, empirical analysis and advice in an accessible manner appropriate for a business audience.
vii. Be able to work effectively with others to solve complex organizational problems.
viii. Be able to undertake an original and independent piece of applied research, employing appropriate research methods and analytical techniques in order to address and provide insight into a practical business problem.

Transferable (key) skills

A Communicate ideas (orally and written) in a transparent and professional manner.
B Tailor communication (orally and written) to academic and business audiences.
C Apply knowledge to solve a range of practical business problems.
D Undertake critical evaluation of work settings.
E Critically evaluate theory.
F Work effectively as a member of a team.
G Plan and design studies to evaluate theory and assumptions.
H Gather data and information in practice.
I Analyse quantitative and qualitative data sets.
J Report and describe research results in a clear and consistent way.
K Translate research findings to form practical guidance and advice for business.

Assessment

Summative assessment
The degree to which students meet the intended learning outcomes is measured and assessed in the following ways:
-Examination
-Group consultancy assignment
-Case study assignment
-Data analysis coursework assignment
-Group presentation
-Dissertation thesis

Formative assessment and feedback
Students on the programme are given formative feedback to assist their progression towards the intended outcomes in range of ways and throughout the duration of the programme:
-Workshop and case study activities are embedded in the teaching time for all taught modules, to enable students to be given feedback on their knowledge acquisition, application of knowledge, and skill development
-Students are encouraged to complete a reflective skills development document which is submitted alongside their assignment for Module 5584M;
-The group presentations for 5584M enables students to obtain formative feedback
-Each student has an allocated dissertation supervisor to provide them with specialist guidance and formative feedback on their ideas throughout the duration of their project.