First cohort graduates from innovative psychology course

In 2022, the University of South Wales (USW) launched a new innovative psychology postgraduate course. This week, the first cohort of students from the MSc Psychology Conversion celebrate crossing the stage in their cap and gown.

The conversion course is a route for students who hold an undergraduate Honours degree, in a subject other than psychology, who wish to change their career path to include psychology.

One of the graduates is Ndi John, an NHS Content Development Lead, with a background in microbiology and public health, Ndi’s path to psychology reflects her desire to address mental health challenges, especially for children and young adults, that has driven her to pivot towards a career in counselling psychology.

Originally from Nigeria, Ndi first came to the UK two decades ago to pursue a public health masters degree. Over the years, she has accumulated a wealth of academic and professional experience, including a masters in business administration, but the call to psychology remained strong.

Reflecting on her decision to undertake the conversion course, Ndi shared: “My undergraduate degree in microbiology wasn’t recognised for entry into counselling psychology. This MSc was the first step, and now I plan to continue with a doctoral qualification in counselling psychology, also at USW.

During the course, Ndi focussed her research on evaluating South Wales Police’s Virtual Volunteers initiative. This innovative program enables participants to contribute to crime prevention efforts remotely, focusing on issues like AI-related crime, romance fraud, and money mule schemes. Ndi’s research explored the motivations and barriers faced by participants, providing insights to help refine and expand the initiative.

As she prepares to graduate, Ndi reflects on the significance of her achievement. “At nearly 50, I’ve proven to myself that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams,” she said. Despite having multiple degrees, this one holds special meaning as a stepping stone toward her ultimate goal.

Rachel Taylor, Course Leader, said: “Our online conversion course is perfect for people, like Ndi, who want an alternative route to psychology.

“The course provides the Graduate Basis for Chartership with the British Psychological Society, which is the essential first step in becoming a registered psychologist.

“Congratulations to the first cohort to graduate from the course. You have all worked so hard and inspired real change with our external partners. I am very proud.”