Kayleigh McGill

Kayleigh currently works as an assistant psychologist in NHS Lothian’s Heart Manual service. She completed both a BA (Hons) Psychology and the MSc Health Psychology at Stirling.

After developing a fascination with the discipline of health psychology during my undergraduate psychology degree, I knew that I wanted to continue my education at the University of Stirling on the MSc Health Psychology course. I am so pleased that I did!

Valuable combination of theoretical and practical experience

Studying this Masters in Health Psychology strengthened my theoretical understanding towards the psychological underpinnings of physical health promotion and health behaviour engagement. It also gave me many opportunities to practically apply this knowledge to a wide range of health conditions and healthcare contexts. Some of the most valuable aspects of this course were the extensive research skills and experiences that I gained. They have been the most instrumental to my career now.

My current role lets me apply my health psychology expertise

Following completion of my MSc, I'm now currently working as an assistant psychologist within NHS Lothian’s Heart Manual service. The Heart Manual is a facilitated home-based cardiac rehabilitation programme which supports individuals’ self-management of their cardiovascular recovery, following a myocardial infarction or revascularisation procedures. My research-based role enables me to apply my expertise in health psychology and research to aid in the continued evaluation and adaptation of this service, contribute to the conductance of related research projects, and assist in the training of healthcare professionals to facilitate this programme.

Studying the MSc Health Psychology was integral in supporting my professional development within this field. I highly recommend this course to anyone who is considering a career in health psychology. I also thank the amazing health psychology teaching team for making it such a wonderful experience!