The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Foundation Year is designed to provide students with a strong academic and practical understanding of psychology, beginning with a foundation year that builds essential study skills and subject knowledge. The course develops knowledge across key psychological domains, including biological, cognitive, social, and developmental psychology, alongside research methods and applied practice.
Students will explore how psychological theory can be applied to real-world contexts such as health, education, and organisational settings. The course also focuses on developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills, preparing students for a range of career opportunities.
Graduates may progress into careers in areas such as mental health support, human resources, education, research, and social services, or continue to postgraduate study in specialised areas of psychology.
Foundation Year (Level 3)
The foundation year provides a strong academic and subject-based introduction to prepare students for degree-level study. It focuses on developing essential study skills, scientific understanding, and awareness of health, psychology, and human sciences.
Students will explore core biological concepts, human anatomy and physiology, and the foundations of psychology and mental health. The course also develops key academic skills such as communication, research, critical thinking, and independent learning. Personal and professional development is emphasised to support transition into higher education.
A key feature of the foundation year is the extended project, where students apply their learning to a chosen topic, developing research, analytical, and presentation skills.
Modules:
- FDY3001 Human Sciences I
- FDY3002 Introduction to Healthcare
- FDY3003 Personal and Professional Development
- FDY3004 Foundation Year Extended Project
- FDY3005 Human Sciences II
- FDY3009 Foundations of Psychology, Counselling and Mental Health
Level 4
Level 4 introduces students to the fundamental principles and core domains of psychology. The focus is on building foundational knowledge of psychological theories, research methods, and key areas of study.
Students will develop an understanding of how psychology is applied in real-world contexts, alongside gaining skills in research design and data analysis. The curriculum covers historical and conceptual perspectives, learning theory, and the impact of digital environments through cyberpsychology.
Students are also introduced to research methodologies, enabling them to understand and evaluate psychological studies. Emphasis is placed on developing academic writing, analytical thinking, and communication skills that form the basis for further study.
Modules:
- PSY4102 Quantitative Research Methods
- PSY4103 Applying Psychology
- PSY4104 Conceptual and Historical Perspectives
- PSY4105 Introduction to Learning Theory
- PSY4107 Cyberpsychology
- SES4001 Introduction to Research Methods
Level 5
At Level 5, students build on their foundational knowledge and explore key areas of psychology in greater depth. The curriculum focuses on understanding human behaviour across different contexts and stages of life.
Students will study developmental, social, biological, and cognitive psychology, gaining insight into how individuals think, behave, and interact. Applied psychological skills are developed to enhance practical understanding and professional readiness.
Research skills are further strengthened through advanced research methods, allowing students to critically evaluate evidence and apply theory to practice. This level encourages independent thinking, problem-solving, and the application of psychological knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Modules:
- PSY5203 Developmental Psychology
- PSY5204 Social Psychology
- PSY5205 Biological Psychology
- PSY5206 Applied Psychological Skills
- PSY5207 Cognitive Psychology
- SES5001 Research Methods
Level 6
Level 6 focuses on advanced study and specialisation within psychology, enabling students to apply their knowledge to complex and contemporary issues. Students engage in critical analysis of psychological theories and research across specialised areas.
A key component of this level is the dissertation, where students conduct independent research, demonstrating their ability to design, analyse, and present a research project. Students also have the opportunity to undertake a placement, gaining practical experience in a professional setting.
The curriculum includes topics such as individual differences, clinical psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and contemporary issues, supporting career readiness and progression to postgraduate study.
Modules:
- PSY6302 Individual Differences
- PSY6305 Working with Teams
- PSY6307 Cognitive Neuroscience
- PSY6310 Contemporary Issues in Psychology
- PSY6314 Clinical Psychology
- PSY6315 Positive Psychology
- PSY6316 Psychology Placement
- SES6000 Dissertation
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Teaching
Teaching is delivered through a blended learning approach that includes lectures, seminars, workshops and project-based learning. Learning activities are interactive and practice-focused, supporting the development of professional skills alongside academic understanding.
Students are supported through the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), where learning materials, assessment briefs and feedback are accessed. Teaching emphasises collaboration, reflective practice and applied learning aligned to professional event industry contexts.
Assessment is designed to evaluate both academic knowledge and practical skills through a variety of methods, including:
- Written coursework such as essays and reports
- Laboratory reports and research projects
- Presentations and group work
- Portfolios and reflective assignments
- Online tests and case studies
- Dissertation and research project
Assessments focus on developing critical thinking, research capability, and communication skills. Students are encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, ensuring readiness for employment or further study. Continuous feedback supports student development and progression throughout the course.
