MSc Diploma Certificate Psychological Research Methods (Evolutionary Psychology)

Course Overview:
You will benefit from the expertise of our leading researchers in evolutionary psychology, who have particular interests in cultural evolution and language, social learning, and mate choice. Our staff are also at the forefront of new developments in applying evolutionary principles to address real world issues. Students interested in comparative approaches and animal behaviour will benefit from other members of our Behaviour and Evolution Research Group whose world-leading research on behaviour and cognition in primates, dogs and elephants are also being applied to real world problems, including conservation, human-animal interaction, and animal welfare. Under the group’s expert guidance you will undertake specialist modules, a research placement and a research project. You will also be able to take advantage of our on-site and overseas labs, field sites and links with industrial partners. For example, the University works closely with the Living Links to Human Evolution Research Centre at Edinburgh Zoo.
 

Period of Study:
Full time: two semesters for Diploma, 12 months for MSc. Part time: four semesters for the Diploma, 24 months for MSc. This programme begins in September.

Assessment:
The modules are normally assessed by coursework, but assessment may include alternative methods as specified by the module co-ordinator. Candidates for the degree will be required to make an oral presentation within the Psychology Division. A dissertation reporting on a research project should be submitted for the degree before the start of the semester following completion of the programme of instruction. All students are allocated an appropriate supervisor for their research topic. 

Career Opportunities:
This course provides advanced training to prepare you for a research career in evolutionary approaches to behaviour, especially for those intending to proceed to a PhD. You will become an integral member of our lively and active research group and we will support you in making the complex transition towards being an independent research scientist. The placement also allows considerable scope for those interested in more applied areas to develop relevant skills for these careers. The course also seeks to meet the continuing professional development needs of those already working in related applied contexts.