MSc Business and Organisational Psychology

This module gives you the opportunity to conduct an original piece of research focused on a business and organisational psychology topic that interests you. Working with specialist academic supervision, you'll develop the skills needed to plan, manage and communicate an applied research project. You'll learn how to select and apply appropriate research methods, work within relevant ethical frameworks and evaluate evidence critically. Through investigating a real organisational issue, you'll strengthen your ability to generate evidence-based insights and communicate research findings effectively in professional contexts.

This module explores the theories, frameworks and practical approaches that underpin coaching and development within organisations. You'll examine topics such as mentoring, executive coaching, leadership development, feedback, talent management and organisational learning. Alongside developing an understanding of coaching techniques and training processes, you'll consider how organisations create cultures that support learning, development and performance improvement. Through engagement with contemporary research and practice, you'll learn how coaching and development can contribute to individual, team and organisational effectiveness.

This module examines how workplaces and organisations can be designed to support both organisational performance and employee wellbeing. You'll explore how physical, social, technical and information environments influence behaviour, learning and effectiveness at work. The module considers topics such as organisational change, development strategies and the impact of globalisation on working life. You'll evaluate a range of approaches to organisational design, from individual behaviour change and training through to workplace systems, policies and organisational learning, helping you develop a broader understanding of contemporary organisations.

This module focuses on developing the professional skills needed to apply business and organisational psychology in workplace settings. You'll explore psychological assessment techniques, including ability and personality testing, while considering their role in selection, development and organisational decision making. The module also examines ethical, legal and professional practice, alongside evidence-based approaches, reflective practice and consultancy processes. Through engaging with practical tools and frameworks, you'll develop the confidence and skills needed to evaluate workplace challenges and contribute effectively within organisational environments.

This module introduces the key research methods used to investigate organisational issues from a psychological perspective. You'll learn how to design research questions, select appropriate methodologies and collect data using a range of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Topics may include surveys, interviews, focus groups, mixed-method research, experimental designs and contemporary issues such as open science. You'll also develop skills in data analysis, interpretation and research communication, enabling you to conduct and critically evaluate research that informs evidence-based practice within organisations.

This module explores the relationship between work, wellbeing and organisational performance. You'll examine how work is designed and organised, how changing patterns of employment influence wellbeing, and the factors that support healthy and productive workplaces. Topics may include stress and resilience, workplace relationships, conflict management, bullying and harassment, work-life balance, and the measurement of wellbeing. Drawing on both research and professional practice, you'll develop an understanding of how organisations can promote positive mental and physical health and respond effectively to workplace challenges.

This module explores the factors that influence employee engagement, motivation and performance within organisations. You'll examine psychological theories of motivation and leadership, considering how individual characteristics, team processes and organisational environments can shape workplace experiences and outcomes. The module also explores topics such as organisational citizenship, burnout, power, influence and perceptions of fairness. Through engagement with contemporary theory and evidence, you'll learn how engagement can be measured, evaluated and applied in practice, developing the skills needed to critically assess and improve workplace performance and wellbeing.