Research in psychology
Our research spans nine themes:
Active vision research investigates the way the brain handles visual information and focuses on visual cognition and visuomotor coordination in humans and apes.
Visual ecology research examines how visual perception and cognition are determined by people’s knowledge or prior expectations about the characteristics of their living environment.
Face and object processing research investigates the way our visual system processes and recognizes complex visual stimuli, such as faces.
Evolutionary psychology research revolves around the idea that theories from evolutionary biology can shed light on human psychology. Among other things, it focuses on the evolutionary origins of altruistic behaviour and human sex differences.
Memory research investigates the biological and cultural factors influencing the development of autobiographical memory across the lifespan and examines the role of autobiographical memory in the development and maintenance of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Language and development research includes multilingual processing in adulthood, interactions between language acquisition and other aspects of cognitive development, differences between monolingual and multilingual language acquisition, and the role of the learning environment on lexical acquisition.
Autism research focuses on intercultural differences in behaviour and cognition in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ASD characteristics and attitudes towards ASD are studied in individuals with and without ASD.
Ageing research aims to identify factors that predict healthy brain ageing across ethno-regional groups. It examines and compares risk and protective factors for dementia, cognitive and functional decline cross-nationally through international data sharing and harmonisation.
Human-factors of Sustainability research focuses on various psychosocial factors that underlie the current issues associated sustainability and livability and attempt to provide adequate solutions for them using the scientific method.
FAQ
What are the entry requirements for UNM’s postgraduate psychology courses?
Entry requirements vary depending on the course you decide to enrol in. Generally, applicants are expected to have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution, preferably in psychology or a related field.
While applications are considered case by case, you may have to meet the required minimum GPA, relevant coursework or prior experience in psychology. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation and meet the English language proficiency requirements.
How long does UNM’s postgraduate psychology course last?
The duration depends on the programme and whether you’re a part-time or full-time student:
Full-time students
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Psychology MRes - 1 to 2 years
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Psychology MPhil - 1 to 2 years
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Psychology PhD - 3 to 4 years
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Developmental Disorders MSc - 1 year
Part-time students
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Psychology MPhil - 2 to 4 years
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Psychology PhD - 6 to 8 years
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Developmental Disorders MSc - 2 years
Can I pursue a postgraduate psychology course if my bachelor’s degree is in a different field?
Yes, in many cases, we accept applicants with bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as sociology, education, or social work. However, additional prerequisite courses or foundational modules in psychology may be required to bridge the knowledge gap.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available for postgraduate psychology students at UNM?
What are the career prospects after completing a postgraduate degree in psychology?
After completing a postgraduate psychology programme, graduates can pursue various career paths depending on their specialisation. They may work as clinical psychologists, counsellors, researchers, professors, human resource professionals, or consultants. Graduates may find opportunities in healthcare settings, educational institutions, research institutes, government agencies and private organisations.
What is the difference between a master’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in psychology?
A bachelor’s degree in psychology provides a broad overview of the field and introduces students to fundamental psychological concepts and theories. A master’s degree in psychology delves deeper into specific areas of psychology and allows students to specialise in a particular subfield, such as clinical psychology, counselling psychology or industrial-organisational psychology. A psychology master’s degree also emphasises research, critical analysis, and practical training, all of which prepare students for more advanced roles in the field.
Can I specialise in a particular area during my psychology master’s or PhD degree?
Yes, most postgraduate courses in psychology offer specialisation options that allow students to focus on a specific area of interest. Students can choose a specialisation that aligns with their career goals and research interests.
How can a master’s or PhD in psychology benefit my career?
A master's or PhD in psychology can open up various career opportunities and advance your professional prospects. It allows you to specialise in a specific area of psychology, making you more competitive in the job market.
Can I pursue a master’s degree in psychology part-time at UNM?
Yes, there are part-time options to accommodate the needs of working professionals or individuals with other commitments. Students will be able to spread the coursework over an extended period, providing more flexibility in managing their time and responsibilities.
What is a PhD in psychology?
A PhD in psychology is the highest academic degree in the field of psychology. It represents the culmination of advanced study and research. PhD programmes in psychology focus on developing students’ research skills, critical thinking abilities, and expertise in a specialised area of psychology. Graduates of psychology PhD programmes often pursue careers in academia, research, or clinical practice, depending on their chosen specialisation.
What are the prerequisites for applying to a psychology PhD programme?
Generally, applicants are required to have completed a bachelor’s degree, with a preference for applications to have a master’s degree in psychology or a related field. A strong academic background with coursework, research methods, and statistics is also expected.