
Psychology MSc (Conversion)
Welcome
Welcome to MSc Psychology at Birmingham Newman University.
I’m Dr Mel West, Programme Lead for the MSc Psychology Conversion course.
My role as a Programme Lead is to oversee the programme, providing guidance and support throughout your academic journey. I look forward to meeting you for your induction day in September.
- Week commencing 22nd September 2025
Preparing for Your Psychology Programme
Before you begin your studies, we highly recommend exploring the Birmingham Newman University website. There, you’ll find detailed information about your Psychology programme, including module overviews, assessment types, and student experiences.
Recommended Reading
To get a head start on your academic journey, you may wish to read the following textbook, which covers all the core areas of psychology:
- Davey, G. (2014). Complete Psychology (2nd ed.). London: Routledge.
This book offers a solid introduction to foundational topics in psychology and will help prepare you for the material you’ll encounter in your degree.
Explore Psychology Careers
To learn more about potential career paths in psychology, visit the British Psychological Society (BPS) website:
At Birmingham Newman University, our Psychology team is dedicated to supporting you throughout your academic journey.
Led by Dr Lorna Dodd, Head of Psychology the department is made up of experienced academics and supportive staff committed to helping you succeed.
Staff on this course include:
- Programme Lead: Dr Mel West: melanie.west@staff.newman.ac.uk
- Module Lead: Dr Florbela Soares Teixeira: f.soaresteixeira@staff.newman.ac.uk
- Module Lead: Dr Claudia Lega: c.lega@staff.newman.ac.uk
- Module Lead: Ms Anatoli Karypidou: a.karypidou@staff.newman.ac.uk
- Module Lead: Dr Kate McGarry: k.mcgarry@staff.newman.ac.uk
- Module Lead: Dr James Adie: j.adie@staff.newman.ac.uk
Beyond your Programme and Module Leads, you’ll be taught and supported by a team of passionate psychology professionals with a wide range of expertise. Whether it’s academic guidance, research supervision, or general support, we’re here to help you thrive.
We’re excited to welcome you to the department and look forward to being part of your university experience.
Studying Psychology at Birmingham Newman University
The Psychology programmes at Birmingham Newman University offer a rich and immersive learning experience. Our curriculum covers a wide range of core areas, including social psychology, individual differences, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, research methods, and classical and contemporary issues. As a Psychology student, you’ll become part of a vibrant and collaborative academic community, where shared learning and support are central to your experience.
Our Approach to Teaching and Learning
Interactive sessions on campus and live online and pre-recorded Lectures
On campus and live online sessions
These hands-on sessions are where theory meets practice—helping you develop your analytical skills and apply what you’ve learned in meaningful, practical ways.
Technology-Enhanced Learning
Our teaching is enhanced by a range of digital tools and online resources. These allow you to access learning materials, engage with interactive content, and receive support beyond classroom hours—offering flexibility and reinforcement to your studies.
The Benefits of Our Learning Environment
Interactive and Engaging – Our teaching methods encourage curiosity, discussion, and critical thinking.
Practice-Based Learning – interactive sessions provide valuable opportunities to apply psychological concepts in real-world contexts.
Community-Focused
Whilst this course is largely based on independent learning, you’ll study alongside fellow Psychology students in a supportive, collaborative academic environment.
At Birmingham Newman University, we combine the best of traditional and innovative teaching to help you grow intellectually, professionally, and personally—equipping you with the knowledge and skills for a successful future in psychology.
HeadStart – Monday 1 to Friday 5 September 2025
Headstart is a programme aimed at introducing our new students to University life. We understand that our students come from all walks of life and have personal and individual aspirations for taking this important step in their journey.
This programme is an opportunity to:
- Talk to staff before starting university
- Meet other students
- Understand and navigate the campus
- Find out about the support available
- Start getting comfortable with university life
Welcome Week Services Fair – Your Chance to Meet the Teams!
As part of your induction to Birmingham Newman University, our Services Fair is your opportunity to meet the teams who will support you throughout your studies and explore the services available to help you succeed.
Dates & Times
- 1 September – 11am – 2pm
- 4 & 5 September – 11:30am to 1pm
- 15, 17, 18 & 19 September – 11am to 2pm
Note: The Students’ Union Welcome Fair will take place on 16 September – see their website for more details.
You’re welcome to drop in and take part on any of the fair dates — it doesn’t have to be the day of your induction.
- Chat with Careers about your future plans, grab some sweets and an employability bag, and register on My Career for a chance to win a £25 Amazon voucher.
- Make a badge with our Environmental Officer, download the OurNewman app to spin the wheel and win a prize, and join the Library for Q&A activities and their Prize Every Time Lucky Dip.
- Advice & Wellbeing will be offering stress tests, sound therapy, and an Affirmation Station, while E-Learning invites you to take their “Who You Gonna Call?” quiz for a prize draw entry.
- Try the Sport team’s exercise bike challenge and visit the Chaplaincy to choose the “word of the day” and share some positivity.
And that’s just the start — there’ll be many more services, activities, and opportunities to explore each day of the fair. Come along, get involved, and make the most of what’s on offer!
The Disability & Inclusion team and the Advice & Wellbeing team will be holding drop-in sessions on campus from 15–19 September.
- 15 September – 11am to 2pm: DW102 (Dimple – Disability & Inclusion)
- 16 September – 11am to 2pm: DW101 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
- 17 September – 11am to 2pm: DW102 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
- 18 September – 11am to 2pm: CH116 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
- 19 September – 11am to 2pm: CH004 (Dimple – Disability & Inclusion)
No appointment needed – just drop in for advice, support, and guidance.
Key information
Teaching starts
- Week beginning: 22 September 2025
Subject Lead
- Dr. Lorna Dodd
- l.dodd@staff.newman.ac.uk
Stay connected with OurNewman app
OurNewman is your go-to place for everything you need as a Birmingham Newman student. With the app, you can:
- Receive personalised notifications about your course, timetable, and deadlines
- Access to your files, emails, and course resources
- Find support services and keep up to date with campus events
Student Handbook

Birmingham Newman University Student Handbook – 2025-2026 (PDF – 4MB)