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University of Dundee vs Hertfordshire. Msc in psychology (conversion)

Dear altruist, I have received offer letters from the University of Dundee and the University of Hertfordshire for an MSc in Psychology (Conversion) course. I am aware that the University of Dundee is well-ranked and prestigious. However, when examining the psychology rankings of these universities, there isn't a significant difference between the two. In fact, the University of Dundee's psychology sub-ranking seems to be downgrading, whereas the University of Hertfordshire's psychology rank is improving by 3-4 steps. Additionally, the subject modules at Hertfordshire seem interesting to me. What should I do? Should I focus on the overall university ranking and its prestige, or should I disregard the rank and focus on the course modules and the current improvement in the individual subject ranking? Which university would be a good choice for my future career and have a positive impact on my academic and professional life?

Reply 1

Original post by neurobee
Dear altruist, I have received offer letters from the University of Dundee and the University of Hertfordshire for an MSc in Psychology (Conversion) course. I am aware that the University of Dundee is well-ranked and prestigious. However, when examining the psychology rankings of these universities, there isn't a significant difference between the two. In fact, the University of Dundee's psychology sub-ranking seems to be downgrading, whereas the University of Hertfordshire's psychology rank is improving by 3-4 steps. Additionally, the subject modules at Hertfordshire seem interesting to me. What should I do? Should I focus on the overall university ranking and its prestige, or should I disregard the rank and focus on the course modules and the current improvement in the individual subject ranking? Which university would be a good choice for my future career and have a positive impact on my academic and professional life?


University rankings change, for your masters in particular I’d go to the university that better caters to your interests in terms of the modules (as long as the course is accredited by the BPS)

Reply 2

Original post by Autumn223
University rankings change, for your masters in particular I’d go to the university that better caters to your interests in terms of the modules (as long as the course is accredited by the BPS)

Thank you for your opinion. However don't u think ex poly University can slightly effect on your job opportunity?

Reply 3

Original post by neurobee
Thank you for your opinion. However don't u think ex poly University can slightly effect on your job opportunity?


Rankings really do change constantly, and it should impact your career much, especially not at masters level. I mean when you finish your post grad you will be asked for feedback, that helps determine the rankings. So it really is down to the students.

Reply 4

Hey @neurobee!

Glad you're considering Herts to study Psychology. I'll echo a lot of what you said - when you're taking on a masters it's super important to have a keen interest in the modules you'll be undertaking - after all, at this stage of your academic journey, students are looking to specialise in specific things!

MSc Psychology Conversion graduates are also eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society. This is your first step to pursue a professional career as a chartered psychologist

We're ranked joint first nationally for research impact, obtaining 100% outstanding rating (Research Excellence Framework, 2021)

And we're ranked 10th for psychology in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey.


I hope this has helped, I would recommend signing up for Unibuddy and chatting with Lauren, a third year Psychology student. Although she isn't currently studying for a Masters, she can give you a great insight into what its like to be at Herts!

Juan
Marketing

Reply 5

Original post by neurobee
Dear altruist, I have received offer letters from the University of Dundee and the University of Hertfordshire for an MSc in Psychology (Conversion) course. I am aware that the University of Dundee is well-ranked and prestigious. However, when examining the psychology rankings of these universities, there isn't a significant difference between the two. In fact, the University of Dundee's psychology sub-ranking seems to be downgrading, whereas the University of Hertfordshire's psychology rank is improving by 3-4 steps. Additionally, the subject modules at Hertfordshire seem interesting to me. What should I do? Should I focus on the overall university ranking and its prestige, or should I disregard the rank and focus on the course modules and the current improvement in the individual subject ranking? Which university would be a good choice for my future career and have a positive impact on my academic and professional life?

The University of Dundee is more suited to students seeking further academic study, while the University of Hertfordshire's program is more focused on applied psychology and vocational practice, so it is more suitable for career-oriented students. It depends on your future career planning.

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