Applied Psychology, Master of Science

Who is a good fit for the M.Sc. Applied Psychology? Requirements and Target Group Overview

The Master's programme M.Sc. Applied Psychology at HSD Hochschule Döpfer is specifically designed for professionals with a first academic qualification who wish to expand their knowledge in the areas of educational psychology or health psychology. Particularly, individuals with work experience in healthcare, therapy sciences, pedagogy, or social and natural sciences benefit from the academic deepening and its implications for professional practice. The programme is ideal for professionals who want to apply psychological expertise in organizations, educational institutions, counseling centers, or in personnel development, and who value a flexible, digital learning environment.

Admission Requirements

• First academic degree: A completed university degree with at least 180 ECTS credits in a closely related field is required. Typical backgrounds include:
  • Nursing
  • Therapy Sciences (e.g., occupational therapy, physiotherapy, logotherapy)
  • Medicine
  • Social Work
  • Education
  • Natural Sciences
• Practical experience: In addition, at least one year of qualified professional experience acquired after the initial degree is required.

The specific access regulations are governed by the Brandenburg Higher Education Act (§9 HG BbgHG). In case of uncertainties or specific questions, contacting the student advisory service at HSD is recommended – especially to verify if an individual educational background qualifies for admission.

Personal Requirements

• Independent and structured way of working – especially in self-study and online settings
• Readiness for academic work and critical reflection
• Interest in psychological issues related to education, health, and social processes
• Ability to work in a team – for exchange in live sessions and practical phases
• Motivation to use new technologies and digital tools in learning and work contexts

M.Sc. Applied Psychology: Overview of Contents and Focus

The Master's programme "Applied Psychology" at HSD Hochschule Döpfer provides you with comprehensive psychological skills with a special focus on the fields of educational psychology and health psychology. The concept of the programme allows you to sharpen your profile by choosing elective modules according to your interests.

Study Contents and Acquired Skills

• Fundamental Psychology Knowledge: You acquire knowledge in General Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Social and Personality Psychology. This enables you to understand how human behaviour, learning, and developmental processes can be scientifically captured and explained.
• Research Methodology & Statistics: You learn to conduct empirical research, prepare data collections, and statistically analyse them. Modules such as "Statistics," "Empirical Data Collection and Analysis," and "Research Methodology & Evaluation" prepare you for evidence-based work.
• Psychological Assessment: Theoretical and practical knowledge in testing procedures and diagnostics - including "Diagnostic Practice" - prepare you for the professional assessment and evaluation of psychological characteristics and developments.
• Application & Specialisation: Through a practical module, you transfer your knowledge directly into real professional situations and strengthen the transfer of scientific theory into practice.
• Specialisation with Elective Modules:
  • Health Psychology (e.g. prevention and health promotion, nutritional psychology, diagnostic of eating behaviour)
  • Educational Psychology (e.g. educational interventions, development of learning environments, coaching and training)
• Master's Thesis: The degree is completed with a master's thesis in which you address an individual research question.

From Entry to Graduation: Your Course of Study

The programme is designed as a pure distance learning course and can be completed 100% online. It is flexible enough to be studied both full-time and part-time (Flex model). The standard period of study is four semesters (equivalent to 120 ECTS credits).

• Asynchronous Self-Study Phases: You use multimedia learning materials such as video lectures, podcasts, scripts, and interactive tasks to further educate yourself individually and flexibly.
• Synchronous Live Sessions: Three virtual live seminars are offered per semester for elective modules. Here, you can discuss directly with lecturers and other students.
• Virtual Support: Regular exchange with teachers and fellow students is possible via discussion forums, email, virtual office hours, and video calls.
• Practical Relevance: In the practical module, you actively apply your knowledge in a professional setting to gain field experience.
• Recognition of Previous Achievements: Previously completed examinations can be transferred upon request.

Career Perspectives after Studying

With a Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology, numerous career paths in various sectors open up to you.

• Career counselling
• School psychology
• Research institutions
• Counselling centres or self-help organizations
• (Partial) inpatient care, prevention or rehabilitation facilities
• Personnel development in companies and organizations
• Education management, adult education, and further education institutions
• Emergency psychology
• Social institutions such as kindergartens or nursing homes
• Foundations and associations

Especially at the interfaces of education, health, and digitalization, professionals with practical psychological knowledge are in demand. The Master's programme qualifies you for responsible positions, such as designing prevention programmes, coaching learners, or promoting health - also in the context of Digital Health.

Study Location: Flexible Online Study

The entire programme is offered as a distance learning course, allowing you to study from anywhere.

• Location Independence: You can study from anywhere and integrate it optimally into your life.
• Start of Studies: The programme can be started in the winter semester with a group size of approximately 30 students per semester.
• Online Campus: A digital learning platform provides all materials, live sessions, and opportunities for exchange.

Costs and Financing Options

Tuition fees amount to 430 euros per month over 24 months (total cost of 10,320 euros), including all fees incurred during the programme. Additional costs only arise if there are remaining ECTS points after the standard period of study.

• HSD Hochschule Döpfer offers individual advice on study financing, discounts, and funding programs.
• Free recognition of study achievements also offers saving potential.

For detailed information, please contact HSD Hochschule Döpfer as part of personal financial advice.