Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Psychology uses evidence-based theories to describe, explain, predict and influence behaviour. This enables us to better understand why we think, act and feel the way we do.
Our Psychology BSc course will teach you about, for example:
how babies learn
how mental skills change
eye-witness testimonies
will power and resilience
mental health
personality types
stereotypes and prejudices
psychological disorders
neurodivergence
Our Psychology degree will also help you develop interdisciplinary skills. These are important in life and valued by employers. You will learn how to think critically and solve problems. You will analyse data, learn to write effectively and become a confident communicator. You will develop these skills by planning, implementing, and analysing a research project.
Psychology combines scientific methods with reflective practice and critical thinking skills. This results in well-rounded graduates.
Our BSc Psychology course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
An accredited psychology degree is recognised for meeting the BPS's standards for course content and delivery. It demonstrates several desirable qualities to employers and academic institutions. These include an understanding of psychological principles and research methods, and transferable skills. Our course also prepares you for further practice-based training overseen by the BPS.
You will also gain skills valued in other career paths. These paths include:
education
social work
human resources
marketing
data analysis
policing
Our course uses a diversity of teaching delivery and assessment methods. You will attend weekly lectures supplemented by tutorials, workshops, practicals and seminars.
You will be assessed by a variety of methods such as:
quizzes
scientific practical reports
essays
debates
presentations
posters
podcasts
exams
In years 1 and 2 you will also study additional Humanities and Social Sciences subjects. These include Geography, Environmental Sustainability, or History, amongst others. With appropriate entry requirements, you can also take some modules from Life Sciences.
In years 3 and 4 you will study Psychology modules exclusively. Year 4 allows you to take optional modules that align to your interests alongside a final year dissertation. This involves conducting your own evidence-based research project.
Our course covers the core curriculum required by the BPS. It also provides the opportunity to dive deep into topics of interest such as:
foundations of mental health
infant development
developmental psychopathology
second language processing
society, mind and health
comparative communication and cognition
metacognition
current issues in social and political psychology
adverse childhood experiences and mental health
Our course also includes an innovative module on positive psychology and resilience building. This aims to equip you with the critical thinking skills and knowledge to evaluate various 'life hacks'.
You can take advantage of internships, study abroad and research experience opportunities.
We run an annual winter retreat to the Scottish countryside where staff and students can explore psychological topics in a less formal setting. They also enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery.
Our student-run Psychology Society organises a variety of events. These include study skills sessions and a range of academic and career-oriented talks.
