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Research overview

Over the past two decades, psychology has become one of the most popular degree topics in the world. It is a fascinating subject that helps us to understand the ways in which our mind, brain, relationships and societies work. Here at UNM, we offer high-quality doctoral training to postgraduate students who wish to pursue an MRes, MPhil or PhD. As a research student, you will be supervised by at least two academic staff members. Postgraduate training at The School of Psychology is designed to provide you with essential research skills and equip you with communication, information technology, personal development and employment-related skills. This training can be tailored to meet your individual needs.

  • MRes: A one-year programme that combines a taught module with an independent research project. It is ideal for students who wish to build a strong foundation in psychological research or prepare for further doctoral study.
  • MPhil: A focused, research-only degree typically completed in one to two years. Ideal for students who want to carry out independent research at Master’s level without the taught component of the MRes. It also offers a shorter time commitment compared to a PhD, while still enabling in-depth investigation of a specialised topic.
  • PhD: A more extensive, research-intensive degree usually completed in three to four years. Designed for students who aim to undertake original research at doctoral level and pursue academic, research, or specialist professional careers.

 

Why choose this programme?

The School of Psychology is consistently ranked amongst the top schools in the United Kingdom and is among the leading centres for research and teaching in the world. At our Malaysia Campus, we have first class facilities and talented scholars working on cutting-edge research. We also enjoy connections with other leading universities across the world and undertake collaborative research with a range of partners both locally and internationally.

 

Course content

Due to the diverse nature of research within the school, there are many different possibilities for MPhil and PhD projects. Progression through the MRes, MPhil, or PhD programmes typically involves:

  • Attendance at core research training sessions
  • Participation in regular supervisory meetings
  • Completion of annual progression reviews
  • Submission and successful examination of a research thesis
  • For MRes students, successful completion of the taught module Advanced Methods in Psychology

This rigorous framework is designed to equip students with essential research competencies, as well as skills in communication, information technology, personal development, and employability. As part of academic development, students are also expected to participate in the School’s postgraduate research seminars.

The School offers a broad and diverse research environment, providing extensive opportunities for postgraduate research projects across multiple areas of psychology. Research in the School spans the following ten areas:

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognition and Language
  • Developmental and Social Psychology
  • Evolution and Human Behaviour
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Memory
  • Neuropsychology
  • Psychological Assessments
  • Sustainability and Liveability
  • Visual Cognition

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

PhD

A good master’s degree (usually merit or higher) in psychology and at least an upper second-class honours degree (2:1) (or international equivalent) in psychology or a related discipline. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

Or

A first-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in psychology. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

MRes and MPhil

An upper second-class honours degree (2:1) (or international equivalent), either in psychology or a related discipline. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.

Applicants must hold a degree from a recognised university. We welcome students from all academic backgrounds and consider a wide range of qualifications. For certain programmes, prior qualifications must be in related fields. As part of the admissions process, applicants may be invited to attend an interview if further evaluation is deemed necessary.

Eligibility can only be confirmed upon submission of a complete application

IELTS (Academic):

6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each element)

TOEFL (iBT):

 90 (minimum 19 in Writing and Listening, 20 in Reading and 22 in Speaking)

PTE (Academic):

 71 (with no less than 65 in each element)
MUET: Band 4.5
  • IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
  • IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
  • IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
  • MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.

Fees

ResidencyFees
Malaysian studentsRM50,000 per year
International studentsRM56,000 per year

Funding

Find out about scholarships, financial assistance and specific research funding available to all malaysian and international students.

Scholarship funding

Your Global Education Starts Here

Why Join the University of Nottingham Malaysia?

  • Study at Malaysia’s No. 1 UK university*, the first and largest UK institution in the country
  • A founding member of the prestigious Russell Group of UK universities, we offer a world-class UK education with strong global recognition, impactful research, and academic excellence
  • 5-Star Rating for research excellence recognised by the Malaysian Research Assessment (MyRA) for world-class research achievements
  • Our graduates are consistently sought after by the top 100 global brands and earn up to 2x more** than the average graduate salary in Malaysia

*Based on student enrolment data from the Profile Book IPTS (MOHE) 2023.
**Based on the UNM Graduate Destination Survey (June 2023), with a national average salary of RM2,700.

Careers

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

This content was last updated on 10 July 2025. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.