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60% of LSBU Psychology research was rated 3* for impact, with 85% of submitted publications recognised as internationally recognised, internationally excellent or world-leading.
Work directly with an academic specialist in your chosen field through 1:1 supervision, workshops and supported independent research.
High-level theory made accessible - 95% of students agree that teaching staff are good at explaining things (NSS 2026)
Overview
MRes Psychology at LSBU – Advance Your Research Career in London
Looking for a research-focused master’s degree in the UK? Looking for a research-focused master’s degree in the UK? The Master of Research (MRes) in Psychology at London South Bank University (LSBU) offers you the chance to work with world-leading academics and develop advanced research skills in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
This programme is ideal for UK and international students who want to specialise in a chosen research area, develop expertise, and prepare for PhD study or global careers in science and industry.
An MRes is, by definition, an original contribution to knowledge. A research degree is different from a taught course. Research students are expected to self-direct their learning with support from a supervisory team. The teaching and learning style at MRes level takes the form of 1:1 supervision, e-learning and workshops.
Why Choose LSBU for Your MRes?
- Collaborate with internationally recognised researchers in cutting-edge fields.
- Access state-of-the-art laboratories and specialist facilities.
- Join a diverse, global student community in central London.
Specialist Research Areas
A member of staff, expert in the chosen field, is directly responsible for guiding and supporting your research programme. As a research student you'll become part of our thriving academic community. We have psychology research groups in the following areas;
- Brain Mind and Behaviour Group
- Lifespan Development
- Lived Experiences of Distress Research Group (LEOD)
- Nicotine, Tobacco, and Vaping Research Group
Within each of these areas, we have a number of specific project areas you can undertake research within. Please see Course Content for a list of currently available projects. We cannot accept applications on other topics.
Research excellence
In the most recent Research Excellence Framework Psychology was rated:
- 60% of our research was awarded 3* out of 4* - 'very considerable impacts in terms of their reach and significance'
- 85% of submitted publications to be internationally recognised, internationally excellent or world leading.
Our research has made a difference at many levels: influencing policy and creating new commercial capabilities. Our scientists work in multidisciplinary teams to target major societal challenges in the areas of human health, well-being, performance and behaviour. We apply theory in theses areas to contemporary real world issues by undertaking innovative and rigorous science.
Why Study in London?
London is a global hub for science, innovation, and networking. Studying at LSBU means access to career opportunities, cultural experiences, and professional connections that can shape your future.
Apply now and join LSBU’s international research community — your future starts here.
Course Content
Programme Structure
- Full-time: 18 months, including 12 months dedicated to your thesis.
- Intensive research training to prepare you for PhD study, industry roles, or academic careers worldwide.
Students undertake research alongside their supervisor and research teams on specific projects. Currently available projects are;
Research Question | Lead Supervisor | Research Group/Centre | Project code |
|---|---|---|---|
Adult Developmental Dyslexia and the Executive Control of Memory: An EEG study | Dr. Rachael Elward | Lifespan Development | CHLSMRES001 |
Neurodiversity in the Workplace: Cognitive and mental health effects | Dr. Jamie Smith-Spark | Lifespan Development | CHLSMRES002 |
Exploring the Supervisory Attentional System in adults with dyslexia | Dr. Jamie Smith-Spark | Lifespan Development | CHLSMRES003 |
Adult dyslexia and responses to novelty: An EEG study | Dr. Jamie Smith-Spark | Lifespan Development | CHLSMRES004 |
The influence of alcohol on memory precision | Dr. Georgina Bartlett | Brain Mind & Behaviour | CHLSMRES005 |
Dyslexia and Visualisation | Dr. Janette Jacobs | Lifespan Development | CHLSMRES006 |
Smokers’ attitudes, perceptions around, and preferences for, disposable-like versus other types of e-cigarettes | Dr. Catherine Kimber | Nicotine, Tobacco, Vaping RG | CHLSMRES007 |
Acute effects of nicotine delivered via e-cigarette on non-drug related rewards | Dr. Nicky Rycroft | Nicotine, Tobacco, Vaping RG | CHLSMRES008 |
How do dual users (smokers who also vape) define and experience ‘satisfaction’ from nicotine use? Implications for developing smoking cessation interventions | Dr. Catherine Kimber | Nicotine, Tobacco, Vaping RG | CHLSMRES009 |
| Collaborative interactions through music and language and their effects on social affiliation | Elisa Carrus | Brain Mind & Behaviour | CHLSMRES044 |
| What drives preference for human contact in the AI age | Elisa Carrus | Brain Mind & Behaviour | CHLSMRES045 |
| Melodic expectation and the sense of incompleteness in OCD | Elisa Carrus | Brain Mind & Behaviour | CHLSMRES046 |
Your application should propose a project linked to one of the above research questions. Please ensure you add the project code in your application.
Careers
What’s in it for me?
At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:
- An online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
- Our Careers Gym offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and finding work experience, as well as regular presentations from employers across a range of sectors.
Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.
Research skills development
All research students are required to participate in a Key Skills Development programme aimed at developing transferable skills in addition to those employed in carrying out research. Training in research methods is available through frequent research seminars.
When necessary the research student can follow, in part, relevant Masters courses available within the School and in particular units on research methodology. In some cases, research students are encouraged to follow other courses available within the University or externally aimed at improving their general expertise in their chosen areas.
In addition, they may be encouraged to follow language courses aimed at improving their oral and written skills - both essential in their future careers.
Transferable skills
A research degree will equip you with many transferable skills. The self-discipline, the demand for clear analytical thinking, and the ability to turn criticism of others work into something constructive of your own, all constitute a unique training for almost any kind of career. The excitement and satisfaction of finding new facts, a new idea, or a new way of looking at something can be highly rewarding.
Attending conferences
Research students are often sponsored to attend national and international conferences and to meet leading scientists in their fields and to present their research findings. The progress of all research students is formally monitored by the University's Research Degree Committee.
LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:
- AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
- Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
- Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.
We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.
Entry Level Requirements
The entry requirements below are for 2027 entry. Want to start your course this September? Call 0800 923 8888 for entry requirements.
Applicants for a Research Degree programme at LSBU are usually expected to have a good honours degree (2:2 and above) and a relevant postgraduate qualification, preferably a merit at Master's level. Please also supply two academic references as part of your application. You will also be required to show proof of all of your qualifications. If English is not your first language you will be required to prove your competency in English, showing an IELTS score of at least 7.0 at postgraduate level. You will be invited to an interview with your potential supervisor, in person or by telephone, prior to an offer being made.
The course is currently not open to international students.
Choose your country
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Angola
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Botswana
- Brazil
- British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic
- Egypt
- Estonia
- Ethiopia
- Finland
- France
- Gambia
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- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Hungary
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Norway
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Sierra Leone
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkiye
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Additional Info
If you do not have the required English and Maths qualifications needed to satisfy the entry requirements for this programme, we have courses available at our partner College that you can take to upskill in these areas. Find out more at South Bank College.
Apply
Course delivery modes and application methods
| Mode | Duration | Start date | Application code | Application method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 2 years | January; February; March; April; May; June; August; September; October; November; December | 4732 | Direct to LSBU |
| Part-time | 3 years | January; February; March; April; May; June; August; September; October; November; December | 4733 | Direct to LSBU |
Home/EU postgraduate students and research students should apply through our dedicated application system.
Full details of how to do this are supplied on our How to apply section for postgraduate students and our How to apply section for research students.
International applicants should use our international application system. Full details can be found on our How to apply section for international students.
See our admissions policy (PDF File 1,043 KB) and complaints policy (PDF File 516 KB).
Considering your application
Your application will be circulated to a number of potential supervisors who will look at your academic qualifications, experience and the research proposal to decide whether your research interest is something that could be supervised at LSBU.
There will also be an interview either by telephone or at the University. If you are successful you will be offered a place on a course and informed of the next enrolment date. The whole process normally takes between six to eight weeks, from receipt of your application to a decision being made about your application at the School.
Prepare to start
We help our students prepare for university even before the semester starts. To find out when you should apply for your LSBU accommodation or student finance read the How to apply tab for this course.
Enrolment
Before you start your course we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our Enrolment pages.
How to Apply
Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.
International students
International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.
Accommodation
Students should apply for accommodation at London South Bank University (LSBU) as soon as possible, once we have made an offer of a place on one of our academic courses. Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.
Test
Prepare to start
We help our students prepare for university even before the semester starts. To find out when you should apply for your LSBU accommodation or student finance read the How to apply tab for this course.
Fees
United Kingdom
£5190
Tuition fees for home students
International
£18200
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.
full-time
Full-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MRes Psychology (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £5190 | International fee: £18200 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4732 | Session code: 1FS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £5190 | International fee: £18200 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4732 | Session code: 1FS10 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark APR
| UK fee: £5190 | International fee: £18200 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4732 | Session code: 1FS20 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
part-time
Part-time Year 1 - All Available Courses
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 1PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 1PS10 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 1 PT Southwark APR
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 1PS20 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
Part-time Year 2 - All Available Courses
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark SEPT
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 2PS00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark JAN
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 2PS10 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
MRes Psychology (PT) - Year 2 PT Southwark APR
| UK fee: £2595 | International fee: £9100 |
| AOS/LSBU code: 4733 | Session code: 2PS20 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £5190 |
| International: £18200 |
The individual fee for this course is shown above. For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for postgraduate students.
At the LSBU Doctoral College we are committed to supporting and developing professional researchers who are driven to make a difference. We have a range of PhD Scholarships available in partnership with businesses and organisations - and when they're available we'll publish notices on the LSBU Doctoral College site.
Bench Fees
Please note that both tuition fees and bench fees are payable for this course
Bench fees are a standard part of the MRes fee structure at most reputable institutions and are in addition to the main course fees. They cover study related costs such as specialist equipment, study participant fees, research related travel, lab and research consumables, etc. The bench fee for the MRes Psychology is £1,800 per annum.
