About M.Sc. in 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 impacted by emerging technology.
Cyberpsychology studies human interactions with other emerging technologies, including the internet, mobile computing, mobile phones, PDAs, 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.
Aims and Objectives
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 technologiesAnalyse changing patterns of technology usePredict emerging and future trends in technology useAdvise on the use of current technologiesCritique the field of CyberpsychologyApply appropriate psychological research methods to the InternetComplete a piece of research in CyberpsychologyWork within an online communityReflect on the impact of the cyberworld on human life
What will I be able to do when I Graduate?
Graduates of the MSc in Cyberpsychology will have had the opportunity to study the factors that influence human behaviour as it relates to technology usage. This knowledge and skill set will be invaluable in a wide range of careers and activities, and so will apply to virtually any profession or endeavour related to technology. The proposed MSc in Cyberpsychology will be especially suitable for 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?
In the first year of the MSc in Cyberpsychology, you will study the following modules:
- Social Psychology of the Internet
- Computer Mediated Communication
- Internet Research Methods
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Consumer Cyberpsychology
In the second year of the programme, you will be required to complete a Research Project, alongside modules in Applied Cyberpsychology and the Psychology of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence.
What are the Entry Requirements?
You must possess an undergraduate qualification of Second Class Honours or higher at Honours Primary Degree level (level 8) or equivalent in a cognate discipline. In exceptional cases, applicants will be considered provided they can demonstrate Honours Degree equivalence which can be verified through APEL process.
Candidates may be invited for interview to assess their suitability, if deemed appropriate by the programme team.
Who is the Programme Accredited By?
The MSc in Cyberpsychology has been evaluated by a panel of experts appointed by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC). The panel are recommending that the programme be approved by HETAC, and formal verification of this approval is expected in May 2007.
What are the Fees?
For the academic year 2007/08, the fee is €3,400 per annum. The fee includes examination, registration and student services fees.
Tax relief for Fees Paid
This is an ‘approved post-graduate course’ for tax relief under section 21 of the Finance Bill, 2000, and students may be eligible for tax relief for fees paid.
What is the Closing Date?
Applications must be made directly to the Institute by 16.00 hours on Friday 15th June, 2007. Please contact the Admissions Office or click here to download an application form.
Please note: This programme is subject to reaching a minimum number of participants in order to proceed.


