Psychiatric Research

Course Overview

Training is provided in a comprehensive range of research methodologies (for example, epidemiological, social, cohort and case-control studies, clinical trials, neuroimaging and genetic studies) and the accompanying statistical, research, critical and creative skills which are required to perform, interpret and apply research. The focus is on current knowledge and emerging research into the biological (e. g. brain neurotransmission, genetics), and environmental underpinnings (e. g. stress, drug use) of psychiatric disorders and on how this research is applied to develop new therapeutic interventions (e. g. pharmacological and psychological interventions). The course has a practical orientation, developing transferrable skills in study design, data gathering, academic writing and publication, and in critical appraisal of existing research. Teaching is delivered by academics working at the cutting edge of psychiatric research, using examples from their current research and highlighting the most topical developments in the field. The optional, voluntary clinical placements provide opportunity to gain experience of working within NHS mental health teams. Study on the MSc programme provides an ideal step towards a PhD or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, and will suit students wishing to prepare for a career in research, combine clinical activities with research, or for further professional development when working in mental health settings. Future career steps are supported by a comprehensive transferrable skills programme. This includes workshops on preparing CV-s and applications for jobs or further study. The PGCert in Psychiatric Research requires completion of the 60 credit module Research Methods, Ethics and Statistics in Mental Health, which is a core taught module of the MSc programme. This provides training in a comprehensive range of research methodologies, ethical principles and fundamental statistical approaches to analysing research data. Over the PGCert, students develop their ability to critically evaluate published research. The PGCert is ideal for students who wish to gain knowledge of the research process, develop their statistical analysis and critical skills, either to support their professional development or as a route to further study.