If you’re interested in psychology and looking to retrain, you're likely to have spotted the phrase ‘conversion course’ quite a few times.
Though it’s not a term many people are familiar with, a conversion course might be the exact tool you need to start your next big career move. Read on to find out what a psychology conversion course is and see whether it’s right for you. We’ll also talk about the many benefits it can offer.
Note: The University of Southampton is in the process of applying for accreditation from the British Psychological Society (BPS) for the MSc Psychology course.
---
What is a conversion course?
A conversion course is one of the most efficient ways to equip yourself with new skills – plus a new qualification – if you want to move into a different line of work.
It’s no secret that many of us only discover our true interests after already completing a degree or establishing ourselves in a certain field.
With a conversion course, you can develop the specialist expertise needed to pursue the profession you want in a relatively short period of time. Full-time courses typically take a year to complete, while part-time courses like our online MSc Psychology take two years.
Why take a conversion course in psychology?
We've designed our flexible MSc in Psychology to support graduates from all backgrounds who want to change careers but still maintain other life commitments.
For example, our course is part-time and delivered entirely online. This means you can continue working full-time while you develop the specialist skills needed to begin your career in psychology.
Plus, you don’t need a relevant degree to study with us either - we’ll give you the foundation needed to enter the field. The course’s only academic requirements are that you hold a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or its equivalent.
If you don’t have the necessary qualification, we also accept relevant work experience in certain instances. Reach out to our friendly enrolment advisor team to learn more.
Why choose Southampton for your Psychology conversion course?
When you’re investing time and money into retraining, you want to learn from the best. Southampton’s School of Psychology is ranked 9th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026), with a research environment recognised as world-leading in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
Our MSc Psychology modules have been designed by academics who are actively advancing the field and leading influential research initiatives. Our School’s expertise spans social psychology, development, mental health, cognition, and behaviour change, so your learning is shaped by the latest research across every core area.
You’ll also develop practical skills like formatting research in APA style, the golden standard for psychology, and learning about responsible AI use in the field.
As an online student, you’ll benefit directly from this research culture through live webinars, high-quality digital resources, and opportunities to engage with real-world projects. In short, you’ll study psychology at a leading research institution and have the flexibility to fit your degree around your life.
What can I do after graduation?
Once you've completed your MSc in Psychology, you’ll be well-prepared to work in a wide range of roles that require a solid understanding of human behaviour.
For example, you could move into roles in areas such as research, health services, education, HR, marketing, behavioural insight, and the charity sector. All these sectors demand professionals who understand people and can make evidence-based decisions.
If you’re aiming to become a professional psychologist, this course provides the academic grounding needed for further specialist training (subject to accreditation and your local requirements). You could also choose to pursue doctoral study or additional postgraduate training in areas like counselling, educational, forensic, health, occupational, or sport and exercise psychology.
Whether you choose to enter new roles or continue your studies, you’ll leave with the confidence and skills to take the next step.
Find out more about our MSc in Psychology
Keen to learn more about the course and the opportunities it can unlock? Visit the University of Southampton’s MSc in Psychology course page for information on course modules, assessment methods, and tuition fees:
Explore our psychology conversion course