University of Surrey
Environmental Psychology MSc
University of Surrey

Course modalities offered

Key Course Facts

Course Description

Why choose this course

From the climate crisis to liveable cities, from the changing nature of our workplaces to how we value biodiversity, humanity’s relationship with the environment is the most important issue of our lifetime. Environmental psychology is at the very heart of this topic. Our MSc programme, established in 1973, equips you with the social science knowledge and skills needed to make a difference to our world. As a student, you will:

-Understand how individuals think, feel and behave in the context of their physical surroundings, to support the creation of healthy places for people and the planet -Access the only one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) degree in the world which focuses on both sustainability and environmental design -Make use of our state-of-the-art psychology facilities, including a virtual reality suite and two observation laboratories, and use the latest equipment to conduct experiments -Learn from teaching staff who are active researchers in sustainable living, wellbeing in built and urban environments, transport and mobility, benefits of nature engagement, and much more -Join our Environmental Psychology Research Group to take part in seminars and workshops, and benefit from our links with renowned research institutions and industries across the world -Benefit from our employability and careers advice that helps 100% of our psychology graduates go on to employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2023, HESA).

What you will study

Across the MSc programme you will explore the relationship between people and their physical environment at every scale, from personal space in homes and offices to engagement with the natural world and awareness of environmental crises.

Within individual modules you will address issues around pro-environmental behaviour, nature and health, architectural psychology and urban environments, social change, and sustainable development, while reviewing and critically engaging with major theories and models within environmental psychology. You will also select one optional module to deepen your knowledge in an area of your choice (healthcare, global challenges or behaviour change). As a result, you will gain the knowledge and skills to support the design, management and use of environments that benefit human function and health and encourage sustainable behaviours.

We will teach you qualitative and quantitative research methods, including the use of statistics, ensuring you have a solid foundation to collect, analyse and interpret data. We offer tailored research methods training depending on your prior experience and qualifications in social science.

You’ll also complete a research dissertation, applying your theoretical and research methods skills to a topic that matters to you. Previous student projects have ranged from climate change perceptions to privacy in open-plan offices, VR experiences of urban settings, biophilic design, and the emotional and cognitive benefits of nature engagement. We’ll match your interests with the expertise of our academic staff, ensuring you get the best support.

Entry Requirements / Admissions

Requirements for international students / English requirements

IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)

    • 6.5
    • All Degrees

We are proud to be one of the most culturally diverse universities in the UK, with more than 140 nationalities playing a role in university life. Our International Recruitment team are here to help you throughout the application process – from advising on choosing the right course to applying for a visa and preparing for your first few weeks at Surrey. You can contact them via [email protected] Applicants who require a Student Visa to study in the UK: To apply for a Student Visa, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) for the University you wish to study at. This is a unique number which will enable you to apply for your visa. The University is under no legal obligation to sponsor any individual and exercises caution with respect to issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to avoid risking its status as a Student sponsor. Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS) will be issued in accordance with the Student Route and CAS Issuing Policy, available at: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/apply/policies

The University of Surrey offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support our students, please visit https://www.surrey.ac.uk/fees-and-funding/scholarships-and-bursaries for more details.
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Environmental Psychology, MSc, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in either Architectural Engineering, Architectural Landscape, Architecture, Environmental Engineering, Interior Architecture and Design, Psychology, Urban Planning, or a recognised equivalent international qualification. We'll also consider relevant work experience if you don't meet these requirements.

English language requirements

**IELTS Academic: 7**0 overall with 6.5 in each element.

Costs

Average student cost of living in the UK

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

University Rankings

Positions of University of Surrey in top UK and global rankings.

See all 30 university rankings of University of Surrey

About University of Surrey

The University of Surrey is a government funded research university located in Guildford, England. The university’s stated goals are to become a leading global university performing important research and innovation, creating great researchers and achieving outcomes which make important contributions to society.

List of 341 Bachelor and Master Courses from University of Surrey - Course Catalogue

Student composition of University of Surrey

undergraduates:
10985
postgraduates:
3275
Total:
14260
  • Student life at the University of Surrey
  • Discover our campus | University of Surrey
  • Why Choose the University of Surrey
  • University of Surrey | The Study Abroad Experience
  • Placement Student Testimonials 2018/19 | University of Surrey
  • Moments Matter | University of Surrey

Where is this programme taught

Stag Hill
map marker Show on map

Similar courses

Program University Student satis­faction Unem­ployed Drop­out Tuition (UK) Tuition (Inter­national) UCAS Tariff City
German and Psychology (year abroad) MA (Hons) University of St Andrews 86% 0% 0% £9250 £30160 205 St Andrews On campus Full-time
Neuroscience with Psychology with Industrial Placement Msci (Hons) University of Aberdeen 77% 1% 0% £9250 £26100 £24800 195 Aberdeen On campus Full-time
Sociology and Psychology MA (Hons) The University of Edinburgh 71% 0% 0% £9250 £26500 187 Edinburgh On campus Full-time
Economics and Psychology MA (Hons) University of Aberdeen 96% 1% 0% £9250 £21900 £20800 166 Aberdeen On campus Full-time
Psychology and Statistics MA (Hons) University of St Andrews 86% 0% 0% £9250 £30160 210 St Andrews On campus Full-time
French and Psychology (year abroad) MA (Hons) University of St Andrews 86% 0% 0% £9250 £30160 219 St Andrews On campus Full-time
Developmental Psychology MSc University of East Anglia - - - £9250 £20600 - Norwich On campus Full-time
English and Psychology MA (Hons) University of St Andrews 86% 0% 0% £9250 £30160 202 St Andrews On campus Full-time
Applied Psychology (Clinical) Msci (Hons) University of Exeter 90% 0% 4% £9250 £29700 192 Exeter On campus Full-time
Psychology Msci (Hons) University College London 94% 10% 0% £9250 £35000 196 London On campus Full-time