About M.Sc. in Cyberpsychology

What is Cyberpsychology?

Cyberpsychology is the study of the human mind and behaviour in the context of human-technology interaction. It encompasses all psychological phenomena that are associated with or affected by emerging technology. This MSc studies human interactions with other emerging technologies, including the internet, mobile computing, mobile phones, games consoles, virtual reality, digital media and any other technology, which has demonstrated an ability to alter human behaviours. It considers the impact of evolving trends, such as technological convergence, on individuals.

Cyberpsychology also examines human interactions with less ubiquitous technologies, such as cyborgs and artificial intelligence. The programme aims to provide graduates with an in-depth understanding of how humans interact with technology and in online environments.

On completion of the programme, you will be able to:

• identify key psychological concepts relevant to the virtual world
• research how people use current technologies
• analyse changing patterns of technology use
• predict emerging and future trends in technology use
• advise on the use of current technologies
• apply appropriate psychological research methods to the Internet
• complete a piece of research in Cyberpsychology
• work within an online community
• reflect on the impact of the cyberworld on human life.

Aims and Objectives

What will I be able to do when I graduate?

The knowledge and skills you have acquired will be invaluable in a wide range of careers and activities, and so can be applied to virtually any endeavour related to technology. This MSc will be highly relevant to individuals:

• whose employer/organisation has an online presence
• who are trying to harness the potential of ICT to assess/help individuals and groups
• who work with young people and technology
• who work in care organisations developing an online presence
• who are trying to integrate ICT into employment or education.

What Subjects Will I Study?

Year 1 Social Psychology of the Internet, Computer Mediated Communication, Internet Research Methods, Human-Computer Interaction, Consumer Cyberpsychology.
Year 2 Research Project, Applied Cyberpsychology and the Psychology of Virtual Reality & Artificial Intelligence.

What are the Entry Requirements?

• Undergraduate qualification of 2nd Class Honours or higher at Honours Degree Level
• In exceptional cases, applicants will be considered provided they can demonstrate Honours Degree equivalence, which can be verified through APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) process
• Shortlisted applicants may be called for interview.

What are the Fees?

Any queries relating to these, please contact the Admissions Office 01 2394621.

What is the closing date?

Applications must be made directly to IADT by 4pm on Friday, 21st August, 2009.

Student Profile: Avril Burgess

Skills for life
I wanted to do the Cyberpsychology programme as soon as I heard of it. Knowing more about the psychological impact of emerging technologies was immediately appealing. Hearing that it could be fitted into full-time work was a clincher.

For some, lifelong learning has become a cliché, but I believe in its importance. Most of my working life has been involved with delivering, developing or evaluating different types of education and vocational training, so it has always been good to be involved as a consumer. I love to learn but not to be bored or patronised. This has not happened at IADT. It is a delight to be part of this new programme because of the lecturers’ enthusiasm, commitment and professionalism. Back-up services, such as library access and assistance, are excellent.

The programme’s part-time nature - all day Saturday - precludes integration into normal student life but this has only enhanced our bonding as the first group of this MSc. The mix of age, gender and professional experience complements real life and virtual learning experiences. Most importantly, it is fun.

The future is bright The current programme work has increased my knowledge base working with young people as an educational psychologist. The next signpost points clearly towards a doctorate in the general Cyberpsychology area.