Dr. Jenny Roth began her career in Biological and Clinical Psychology before transitioning to become a fellow of the International Graduate College 'Conflict and Cooperation between Social Groups'. She completed her Ph.D. in 2010 at the University of Jena, Germany, during which she conducted research as a visiting scholar at the University of Sussex in Brighton, UK. Following her Ph.D., Dr. Roth served as a researcher and lecturer in Social Psychology at the University of Dresden, Germany, and later at the University of Würzburg, Germany (2016-2019). She also held a postdoctoral position in the Social Cognition Lab at the University of California, Davis, CA, USA, from 2014 to 2016. In the summer of 2019, Dr. Roth joined the Psychology department at UL.
Dr. Roth is a social psychologist with a keen interest in social identity, utilizing a social cognitive approach to understand various aspects of intergroup relations. Her research primarily focuses on two contemporary social issues: economic inequality and social mobility. In this Q&A, she shares insights about the MSc in Psychological Science at UL.
What inspired you to pursue a career in psychology, and how has your own background shaped your role as Course Director?
Psychology is relevant in everyday life, and it opens up a diverse field of job opportunities. I aim to pass on my fascination for Psychology to students and support them in their career trajectory.
As Course Director, what aspects of your programme are you most passionate about, and how do you hope to impart this passion to your students?
The MSc in Psychological Science extends people’s knowledge in research methods – a general valued skill of Psychologists. Apart from that students can tailor this degree to their own interests by choosing between clinical psychological, a community and health psychological, a social psychological, or a research methods focus. I am particularly excited about a new online stream that allows students to study from distance.
Can you highlight any unique features or components of the MSc Psychological Science programme that set it apart from other similar programmes?
Unique to the MSc in Psychological Science programme is that it provides students with a general master’s degree in psychology while the content studied can be tailored to the individual’s interests through the programme’s stream structure and a range of electives offered.
In your opinion, what are some of the key skills and competencies that students can expect to develop through their participation in the MSc Psychological Science programme?
Students develop a strong understanding of research methods along with relevant theories in Psychology and how to apply those theories to solve social issues. It is a research focused programme that offers strong application skills.
As Course Director, how do you support and mentor students throughout their academic journey, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field of Psychological Science
The programme combines the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and its applications to real world problems. We have a mix of individual and group-work based assignments which prepares students for working independently and with others. Furthermore, we offer a career seminar series where we invite professionals from different field who talk about different career options.
What career opportunities are open to students upon completion of the MSc Psychological Science?
Psychologists work in many careers. Most of our students continue with working for governmental or non-governmental agencies. Other graduates use the programme as a stepping stone into a clinical doctorate programme and may continue with working as an Assistant Psychologist. Others continue with a PhD.
Curious about the MSc in Psychological Science?