Psychology Courses

About Psychology University Courses

Whilst psychology is in part a scientific discipline, it involves the same kind of analysis and interpretation as a subject in the social sciences; the history of psychology as a subject is defined by the many psychologists who have long differed in their analyses, and as a student of psychology you will both study these differing theories as well as develop the skills and knowledge to offer your own interpretations and analysis. A psychology degree will give you both a thorough understanding of the cognitive function of the human brain, as well as a grounding in more social aspects of human behaviour and sociology.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for a degree in psychology at a UK university will depend on the institution and whether the course is taken online, part time, full time or in the classroom. Many high-ranking universities who offer full-time degrees in psychology will demand AAB at A-Level or AAAA at Higher level, with a preference for students whose subjects were taken in the sciences and maths.

Other institutions will look to UCAS points as opposed to A-levels, whilst others will look for a mix of work experience and academic capability. For those without academic qualifications and to those for whom a full-time degree would be impractical, many other options are available; certain psychology courses are available via distance learning and online, which is perfect for those with full-time jobs or the responsibilities of childcare. Some courses will also accept a foundation year qualification in psychology or a related subject for a possible fast-track option into a degree course. Most degree courses will demand a minimum of English language requirements.

Funding

Tuition fees to study psychology will depend on the university or institution offering the undergraduate degree. UK and EU students can apply for higher education course fee loans of up to £9250 per year for full-time courses and £6935 for part-time courses. For maintenance loans the regulation is a little more complicated, especially for international students and part-time students looking for financial support. For further information, you can take a look at the government website here.

Workload & Difficulty

As psychology is an academic discipline with a thorough grounding in science, psychology students will be expected to maintain a certain threshold of effort and attention to detail, as well as keep up with lots of reading, coursework and exams; undergraduate courses will also give its students training in broad topics such as research methods, research projects, research skills and statistical analysis. Whilst the demands of the workload might often be challenging, a degree in psychology can be taken part-time or full-time, and distance learning and part-time learning can make things easier for those with other responsibilities trying to juggle their academic work and day-to-day responsibilities. 

Career Prospects

The skills attained with a degree in psychology are twinned both in scientific method and interpretive analysis, enhancing your employability in various sectors and rendering your opportunities abundant in a wide range of careers. Psychology graduates can go on to enter the following professions:

• Social work
• Mental health counselling
• Clinical psychology
• Child psychology
• Chartered psychology
• School psychology
• Occupational psychology
• Human resources
• Police work