Psychology BA/BSc
Study of human behaviour, thoughts, emotions, and mental processes, exploring how people develop, learn, think, react, and relate to others in everyday life.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in human behaviour
Enjoy analysis and research
Want flexible career options
Like critical thinking
Are curious
Popular Career Fields
Healthcare & Public Health
Human Resources
Research & Academia
Education
Your Personality Might Be:
Curious about behavior
Human Resources
Analytical thinker
Patient observer
What is it?
What is a Psychology degree?
Psychology investigates how the mind works and why people behave the way they do. You’ll explore areas such as cognitive processes, mental health, development across the lifespan, social interaction, biological influences, and individual differences.
The degree combines scientific research with applied understanding of behaviour and wellbeing. You’ll learn research methods, conduct experiments, analyse data, and examine theories that help explain a wide range of human experiences, from memory and perception to relationships, motivation, and mental health.
Many programmes are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), allowing graduates to progress toward professional psychology training.
Why Study Psychology?
If you’re curious about people, emotions, behaviour, and mental processes, Psychology offers a fascinating and wide-ranging academic foundation.
It helps you understand:
How the brain influences behaviour
How people think, learn, and develop
Why mental health difficulties arise
How relationships and social environments affect wellbeing
Psychology is relevant to everyday life and provides strong preparation for careers in mental health, education, research, HR, community support, and applied psychology roles.
Course Summary
Study of human behaviour, thoughts, emotions, and mental processes, exploring how people develop, learn, think, react, and relate to others in everyday life.
What you'll study
Psychology degrees can often cover:
Cognitive, social, developmental, and biological psychology
Mental health, psychopathology, and wellbeing
Research methods, experiments, and statistical analysis
Brain function, neuroscience, and perception
Individual differences, personality, and intelligence
Applied psychology in health, education, and society
Skills You'll Gain
A Psychology degree builds strong academic and analytical skills including:
Research and data analysis – enabling you to design studies, analyse results, and interpret psychological evidence.
Communication and empathy – helping you work effectively with individuals and groups across diverse settings.
Critical thinking – allowing you to evaluate theories, evidence, and assumptions about behaviour.
Scientific and analytical skills – supporting evidence-based decision-making and professional practice.
Problem-solving and reflective practice – enabling you to understand challenges and adapt approaches based on insight.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Psychology graduates work in a wide range of roles, including:
Mental health and wellbeing support
Research, data analysis, and behavioural insight roles
Human resources, coaching, and organisational development
Education, youth work, or SEND support
Health psychology, counselling, or clinical roles (with further training)
Marketing, communication, or consumer insight
Public sector and social care work
Work Experiences & Placements
Opportunities may include:
Mental health and wellbeing services
Schools or educational support roles
Research assistant placements
Community or youth organisations
Health and social care settings
Helplines or support services
Some universities offer year-long or optional professional placements.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Psychology. Some universities may accept a Science (Biology, Chemistry, Maths) or Social Science instead, but Psychology at A-level is strongly preferred.
Personal Statement Tips
Show genuine interest in behaviour, emotion, or mental health.
Mention reading, volunteering, or experiences that shaped your interest.
Reflect on what aspects of psychology fascinate you most.
Highlight empathy, communication, curiosity, and analytical skills.
What to do Next
Check whether your preferred course is BPS-accredited.
Explore optional pathways such as forensic, health, or educational psychology.
Gain experience in mental health, schools, or support settings.
Read introductory psychology texts or research summaries.
Wider Reading
Thinking, Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman
A highly influential exploration of how humans think, make decisions, and behave.The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat – Oliver Sacks
Fascinating case studies that reveal the complexities of the human mind.The Happiness Hypothesis – Jonathan Haidt
A thought-provoking look at wellbeing, meaning, and psychological insight.The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk
A powerful exploration of trauma, memory, and healing.