MSc Clinical and Health Psychology

In this unit, we explore how our minds and bodies are connected, looking at how emotions, thoughts, and behaviours can affect health problems.

The unit considers ways in which psychological factors (emotions, cognitions, behaviours) may relate to experiences of health issues typically considered to be 'physical' ailments. We cover a range of conditions and symptoms over the course of the unit, as well as considering the impact of stress, and the emerging field of psychoneuroimmunology. The contributions of different biological, psychological and social approaches to our understanding of medically explained and unexplained conditions will be considered. Alongside these topics, you'll develop your skills in critical evaluation of research and learn how to communicate complex ideas clearly for both academic and non-specialist audiences.

The unit aims to:  

• Provide an understanding of the role of psychological factors in disease and illness.
• Draw on recent research to critically discuss methodological, theoretical and practical issues which are important when we are trying to understand the relationship between mind and body.
• Develop skills of critical reading of original research papers within the field.
• Develop skills in writing for lay audiences

Teaching will be delivered over 11 sessions. Course material will predominantly be delivered within 2-hour in-person sessions. Taught sessions will involve lecture and interactive seminar components - for example: working with set reading to gain a deeper understanding of the area and to build critical evaluation skills; using case studies for small group discussion; interactive workshop enabling students to develop skills in writing for lay audiences.

Students will sometimes be asked to prepare specific material in advance of taught sessions and should expect to carry out independent reading and other self-directed learning activities before and after taught sessions to enhance understanding of topics discussed in class and to use in seminar activities.

Students will be provided with electronic resources on Canvas including PowerPoint slides, self-directed revision activities and reading lists. A discussion board on Canvas will also be available for discussing issues and questions with staff and peers.

• Describe current research on the role of psychological factors in a range of physical health conditions.
• Explain how psychological factors interact with and affect physiological processes, including in the context of medically explained and unexplained symptoms and the functioning of the immune system.
• Demonstrate a sophisticated and sympathetic understanding of illness without disease.

• Critically evaluate evidence, identifying both strengths and limitations.
• Critically evaluate research relating to interactions between psychological and physiological processes.
• Integrate ideas and concepts from different psychological and medical literatures.

• Apply critical evaluation skills to analyse and evaluate psychological and health‑related research literature.
• Construct coherent, evidence‑based written arguments that demonstrate understanding and critical engagement with relevant research.
• Engage in effective independent learning and use self‑directed learning materials effectively to consolidate understanding and develop subject knowledge.
• Effectively communicate research to lay audiences in writing.

• Communicate and interact effectively in small groups and class discussions.
• Demonstrate independent learning and time‑management skills in preparing for teaching sessions and assessments.
• Present information and arguments clearly, coherently, and persuasively in both academic and non‑academic contexts.

Essay exam: 100% of mark. Students will also receive formative feedback (from peers or staff) on writing for lay audiences.

Current reading recommendations will be provided with individual sessions.

The reading list for the unit also provides a number of textbook recommendations.

A good core textbook is: de Visser, R. and Ayres, S. (2025). Psychology for Medicine and Healthcare (4th Edition). Sage