Direct answer
The MRes Research Methods in Psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London requires an undergraduate degree of at least upper second class standard in a relevant subject area. For applicants whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 is required. The international full-time tuition fee for the 2026/2027 academic year is £25,500.
Programme structure and content
The MRes runs for one academic year full-time or two years part-time. Most lectures, seminars and workshops take place in the first two terms, but study extends beyond formal term times. Teaching is timetabled mainly for Mondays and Tuesdays, though occasional attendance at other seminars and workshops held by the Psychology and Neuroscience department and Goldsmiths may be required.
You take nine compulsory modules, all of which include a strong practical component:
- Research Design and Analysis (15 credits)
- Multivariate Statistical Methods (15 credits)
- Credible and Open Research in Practice (15 credits)
- Critical Analysis (15 credits)
- Research Placement (15 credits)
- Introduction to Coding in Python & MATLAB (15 credits)
- Advanced Quantitative Methods (15 credits)
- Research Dissertation (60 credits)
- Core Qualitative Research Methods (15 credits)
You will also be encouraged to attend the Psychology and Neuroscience Invited Speaker Series and other relevant seminars and career talks.
Entry requirements
The published entry requirement is an undergraduate degree of at least upper second class standard in a relevant subject area. The official page states that you might also be considered if you are not a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, provided you have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to work at postgraduate level. All aspects of an application are considered when a decision is made, and an offer may still be possible even if qualifications or grades do not meet the published requirements.
International qualifications and English language
Goldsmiths accepts a wide range of international qualifications. The official page directs applicants to the university’s qualifications accepted from around the world page for details. No specific entry requirements for Chinese applicants beyond the general international requirements are stated on the official programme page.
If English is not your first language, you need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0, or an equivalent English language qualification. The university offers courses that can help prepare for postgraduate study if you need assistance with your English language.
Fees
Annual tuition fees for students starting in the 2026/2027 academic year are:
- Home full-time: £10,800
- Home part-time: £5,400
- International full-time: £25,500
The official page states it is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while on another visa type, you should contact the Admissions Team for more information.
How to apply
You apply directly to Goldsmiths using the online application system. To complete your application, you need:
- Details of your academic qualifications
- The email address of your referee, or a copy of your academic reference
- Contact details of a second referee
- Copies of your educational transcripts or certificates
- A personal statement
You can save your progress at any point and return to your application by logging in. Before applying, you are advised to contact the programme contact, Dr Karina Linnell. It may also be possible to arrange an advisory meeting. Before starting at Goldsmiths, the actual topic of your research must be agreed with your proposed supervisor, who will be a member of staff active in your general field of research.
Applications are accepted from October for students wanting to start the following September. You are encouraged to complete your application as early as possible, even if you have not finished your current programme of study. Late applications will only be considered if spaces remain available.
Selection process
Admission to many programmes is by interview, unless you live outside the UK. Occasionally, candidates are made an offer on the basis of their application and qualifications alone.
Research training recognition
The programme was among the first to be recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as providing the generic and specific research training required by psychology students in receipt of ESRC studentship awards. Since 2017, the programme provides its psychology research training under the umbrella of the South-East Network for Social Sciences, an ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership between 10 universities, including Goldsmiths. Students in receipt of an ESRC 1+3 PhD studentship in the psychology pathway can take this programme as the first year of a 4-year PhD programme; students who have completed the MRes self-funded are eligible to bid for ESRC funded +3 PhD studentships.
What the official page does not establish
The official programme page does not publish specific entry requirements for Chinese applicants, such as a minimum percentage or GPA from Chinese bachelor’s degrees. It does not provide a country-specific equivalency table on the programme page itself. The page directs applicants to the university’s international qualifications page, which would need to be checked live for any China-specific equivalency. The official page also does not state whether Clearing is available for this programme; live availability must be verified through the university’s Clearing pages or admissions contact.
FAQ
What is the minimum IELTS score for this programme?
An IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0, or an equivalent English language qualification.
Can I apply if my degree is not in psychology?
The official page states you might be considered if your degree is in an unrelated field, provided you have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to work at postgraduate level.
Can international students study part-time?
The official page states it is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you may be eligible to study part-time on another visa type, you should contact the Admissions Team.
Is there an application deadline?
Applications are accepted from October for the following September. You are encouraged to apply early. Late applications are only considered if spaces remain.
Do I need to contact a supervisor before applying?
The official page advises you to contact the programme contact, Dr Karina Linnell, before applying. It may also be possible to arrange an advisory meeting. Before starting, your research topic must be agreed with your proposed supervisor.
Official sources
- MRes Research Methods in Psychology programme page
- Goldsmiths international qualifications information (linked from the programme page)
- Goldsmiths postgraduate fees guidance (linked from the programme page)
- Goldsmiths scholarships finder (linked from the programme page)
For broader context on UK university admissions, you may find our guides on Southampton 2026 admission requirements, fees and rankings and the University of Hertfordshire 2026 international guide useful. If you are exploring how to navigate the application process, see our discussion on 2026 UK undergrad agency recommendations. For a wider perspective on choosing study destinations, read our piece on selecting study abroad agencies in Australia.