The course content, supportive academic environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth have all confirmed that studying at Sheffield was the right decision
Jonathan Hornagold
Current student
MSc Business and Organisational Psychology
MSc Business and Organisational Psychology student, Jonathan Hornagold, feels that his time at the University of Sheffield has prepared him well for the workplace, thanks to its strong reputation, network, and focus on skills and qualifications building.
I completed my BSc in Business Psychology at the University of Lincoln, where I developed a strong interest in how psychological principles can shape the workplace. After graduating, I spent 14 months working as a Recruitment Consultant in Manchester. While the role offered valuable insight into organisational dynamics, I found myself wanting to apply my academic knowledge more deeply. That realisation encouraged me to pursue the MSc in Business and Organisational Psychology, to strengthen my expertise, expand my professional network, and align my career with the field I’m truly passionate about.
I decided to study at the University of Sheffield due to it’s homely, community feel
My family is from Sheffield, and I grew up nearby in Worksop meaning I spent much of my life in and around Sheffield and can reconnect with my family’s history/memories in the city. Beyond that personal connection, Sheffield’s outstanding academic reputation made it an easy choice. The Institute of Work Psychology (IWP) is especially renowned for its research impact and legacy of producing and connecting leading experts in the field. The course content, supportive academic environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth have all confirmed that decision was the right one.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the course has been hearing directly from leading academics and guest speakers
Talks from speakers such as Rob Briner (QMUL), Marcus Koske (Lloyds) and Jenny Barrett (RSPB) have provided invaluable insight into the realities of working in organisational psychology and offered practical guidance on how to navigate and succeed in the field. As someone working to build a career in a competitive discipline, postgraduate study can sometimes feel challenging due to the need for balancing academic demands while trying to establish your place in the profession and job market. These sessions have been incredibly motivating and grounding, reminding me why I chose this path and helping bridge the gap between theory, research, and real-world application.
Throughout the course, I’ve developed both technical and interpersonal skills that feel directly relevant to my future career
Gaining SHL and BPS Test User qualifications has been particularly valuable, offering practical assessment expertise beyond standard course content. Academically, I’ve deepened my understanding across a broad range of topics from employee wellbeing and motivation to organisational development and statistical methods, helping me build a truly well-rounded foundation of knowledge to apply in the workplace.
The MSc has equipped me with the research experience, professional qualifications, and evidence-based mindset needed to make a real impact
With the University of Sheffield’s strong reputation and network behind me, I feel well-prepared in my job search and confident that I am one step ahead of other applicants due to the skills and qualifications achieved throughout the course. I am embarking on my job search with a motivated confidence that doors and opportunities have been opened as a result of partaking in this course.
Sheffield is truly a balanced city that has something for everyone
I love the access to a great night life, sports, community and green spaces!