Psychology is a relatively new science and every year there are more and more psychological studies producing new information about different psychological topics and ideas. Research psychologists apply skills in statistics, research design, computing and data analysis in an attempt to answer a variety hypotheses in the field of psychology.
In order to become a research psychologist, students need to study a coursework masters degree in research psychology and pass the HPCSA board exam. There are many universities in South Africa that offer a Masters degree by dissertation, however many of these are not recognized by the HPCSA and will not allow for registration as a research psychologist. Please follow this link to view accredited research masters programs.
Research psychologists conduct research at centres, universities, corporations, non-profit organisations, or for the government. They look at patterns of human behaviour and cognition, and use tested research techniques to make empirical conclusions about the topic they are researching.