Preparing for Your Psychology Programme

Before you begin your studies, we highly recommend exploring the Birmingham Newman University website. There, you’ll find detailed information about your MSc Psychology programme, including module overviews, assessment types, and student experiences. You can also watch videos featuring current Psychology students sharing what it’s like to study at Newman—offering valuable insight into student life and learning.

Recommended Reading

To get a head start on your academic journey, you may wish to read the following textbook, which covers all the core areas of psychology:

Davey, G. (2014). Complete Psychology (2nd ed.). London: Routledge.

This book offers a solid introduction to foundational topics in psychology and will help prepare you for the material you’ll encounter in your degree.

Explore Psychology Careers

To learn more about potential career paths in psychology, visit the British Psychological Society (BPS) website: https://www.bps.org.uk/career-options-in-psychology
Career Options in Psychology – BPS

Online Welcome and Induction Meetings

We’ve scheduled two online TEAMs welcome sessions prior to Induction Week. These are a great opportunity to meet the team, connect with fellow students, and ask any questions you may have about the programme or university life.

Session 1

• Date: Thursday 27th August 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
• Meeting Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/35015602795859?p=MxTZCVsZ8ddXSRZRZZ

Session 2

• Date: Thursday 10th September 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
• Meeting Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/329876352648483?p=4K9ARjEYvio6Yqsqfd

We encourage you to join these sessions using the links provided—they’re a great way to feel more prepared and connected before Welcome Week begins.

Welcome and Induction Week

We’re delighted to welcome you to the MSc Psychology (Conversion) programme at Birmingham Newman University! Your journey begins with our Welcome and Induction Week, taking place on campus on:

• Tuesday 15 September
  • 10:00 – 12:00 (Room MC015)
  • 13:00 – 16:30 (Room DW011)

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you on this date to complete enrolment.

These sessions are designed to introduce you to university life, your course, and your new academic community. They’re a vital part of your transition into higher education, so we strongly encourage you to attend both days.

What to Expect

You’ll take part in essential activities to help you settle in, meet staff and fellow students, and prepare for your degree. It’s the perfect opportunity to ask questions, explore the campus, and begin building the foundations for your success.

First Day Instructions

On 15th September, please head to the main reception when you arrive — a member of staff will be there to direct you to your first session.

Get ready for an exciting start to your Psychology journey! During your induction you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Meet your fellow students and teaching team and start building connections with the people you’ll be studying alongside.
• Learn about your Psychology programme, what to expect from your studies, and how to make the most of your time at university.
• Take part in fun icebreaker activities designed to help you get to know your course mates in a relaxed and friendly environment.
• Set up essential university systems, including Moodle, email, and accessing your timetable.
• Explore the library and learning resources available to support your studies and academic success.
• Discover the support services available to you, including student success, wellbeing, and academic support teams.
• Take part in interactive campus activities, helping you become familiar with key locations and facilities around the university.
• Prepare for your first week of teaching, giving you the confidence to begin your studies successfully.

We want your induction to be informative, engaging, and fun—so come along, get involved, ask questions, and enjoy the start of your university experience!

Semester 1 – Week beginning 21/09/2026

• Wednesday – Weeks 4, 12 and 14 – Online 12:00 – 14:00
• Wednesday – Weeks 6 and 10 – Campus 11:00 – 18:00
• Thursday – Weeks 4, 12 and 14 – Online 12:00 – 13:00

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed the pre-arrival task online and set up your student login.

Studying Psychology at Birmingham Newman University

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at Birmingham Newman University offers a rich and immersive learning experience. The curriculum covers a wide range of core areas, including social psychology, individual differences, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, research methods, and classical and contemporary issues.

Our Approach to Teaching and Learning

Interactive Campus Sessions

These sessions are designed to be dynamic and engaging and hands-on. These sessions are where theory meets practice—helping you develop your analytical skills and apply what you’ve learned in meaningful, practical ways. They are interactive and engaging using teaching methods to encourage curiosity, discussion, and critical thinking.

Technology-Enhanced Learning

The majority of your learning will involve use of online resources. These allow you to access learning materials, engage with interactive content, and receive support beyond classroom hours—offering flexibility and reinforcement to your studies.

Practice-Based Learnin

Workshops and seminars provide valuable opportunities to apply psychological concepts in real-world contexts.

At Birmingham Newman University, we combine the best of traditional and innovative teaching to help you grow intellectually, professionally, and personally—equipping you with the knowledge and skills for a successful future in psychology.

Beyond your Programme Leader, you will be taught and supported by a team of passionate psychology professionals with a wide range of expertise. Whether it’s academic guidance, research supervision, or general support, we’re here to help you thrive.

We’re excited to welcome you to the department and look forward to being part of your university experience.