Master of Science (MSc) in Psychology

The Master of Science in Psychology is designed as a cycle of specialisation providing access to the profession of psychologist. On completion of the Master’s degree the student will be able to:

• explain, evaluate, compare and discuss specific aspects of knowledge in psychology, in the orientation chosen for the Master’s degree, and put them into perspective in relation to their epistemological status ;
• implement, acting independently, a scientific research process ;
• master the use of intervention tools related to the application scope of the chosen orientation in psychology ;
• present, in a structured and reasoned manner, an in-depth reflection, in both written and oral form ;
• use the relevant knowledge, analytic skills and intervention tools in different contexts, showing respect and consideration for diversity ;
• develop ethical and socially responsible positions in the practice of psychology.

The main specialisation is to be chosen from among the following 5 fields:

• Clinical Psychology;
• Health Psychology;
• Child and Adolescent Psychology*;
• Counselling and Vocational Psychology*;
• Social and Intercultural Psychology

* These two specialisations allow access to consultations under supervision (provided that your application is accepted); see Admission requirements.

On completion of the Master’s degree students will be able to:

• explain, evaluate, compare and discuss specific aspects of knowledge in psychology, in the orientation chosen for the Master’s degree, and put them into perspective in relation to their epistemological status;
• implement, acting independently, a scientific research process;
• master the use of intervention tools related to the application scope of the chosen orientation in psychology;
• present, in a structured and reasoned manner, an in-depth reflection, in both written and oral form;
• use the relevant knowledge, analytic skills and intervention tools in different contexts, showing respect and consideration for diversity;
• develop ethical and socially responsible positions in the practice of psychology.

This range of skills prepares students for professional posts in a wide variety of sectors:

• Medico-psychological consultation services
• Psychogeriatrics and geriatrics
• Counselling and vocational psychology
• Psychology, psychomotor therapy and speech therapy in the educational field
• Parapublic institutions (e.g. care homes for the elderly, adolescent homes)
• Prevention and public health (e.g. industrial health and safety)
• Research and teaching (e.g. UNIL, CHUV – Psychiatry)
• Private Practice (Consultation)
• Other : associative structures, intervention services (e.g. police), private service companies or consultancies in the organisation of firms, public administration, etc.
• Private practice (consultation, check-up, psychological evaluation, etc.)

In several fields, particularly those where a federal specialisation degree exists (e.g. psychotherapy), postgraduate training is necessary after completing the Master’s degree.

Going on a university exchange is a unique and highly rewarding experience, provided you prepare well. The first thing to remember is that you need to start taking steps well in advance. For example, if you're planning to go away in your 3rd year of a bachelor's degree, you should start taking steps at the beginning of your 2nd year at the latest.