TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Psychological Studies

Already completed a Foundation Degree or HND in a psychology-related subject? Our one-year top-up builds on your knowledge in clinical, cognitive and social psychology, with the option to specialise in psychology or psychology with sociology.

Boost your qualification

Take the final step towards achieving your full honours degree and develop a deeper understanding of social, developmental, clinical, cognitive and physiological psychology.

Personalise your studies

Choose to study psychology or psychology with sociology and graduate equipped to carve out your future – from professional psychology to careers in marketing, management and beyond.

Active learning

Learn by doing, applying your knowledge through practical activities in our psychology experiential learning lab and start building valuable experience from day one.
BSc (Hons) Psychological Studies

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About

Psychology research hero

There is a range of expertise within the psychology department, including neuroscience, social psychology, cognition and behaviour, among other areas. This provides a range of experiences that can be used to inspire us. What I like most about the department is the knowledge and passion of both staff and students. There is a willingness to engage, ask questions and guide others in developing key skills. When we share our skills with those around us to reach a common goal, everybody wins.

Rob
Psychology student

This course is for you if...

you are looking for a one-year top-up course towards a full honours degree
magnifying glass
you're intrigued by how thoughts, feelings and motivations shape behaviour
Brain
you value hands-on learning to understand your subject
Hand holding two cogs
you want to gain practical skills to set you apart in your career in education, health, business, or media
Ladder leading up to cloud, depicting career aspirations

Details

Why choose psychology?

Studying psychology deepens your understanding of how people think, feel and behave. It helps explain relationships, decision-making, mental health, learning and social dynamics. 
Whether you're interested in clinical work, education, marketing, or workplace wellbeing, psychology offers a strong foundation. You'll also gain transferable skills like critical thinking, communication and data analysis – making it a versatile degree with wide career potential.

Why choose psychology with sociology?

Psychology with sociology combines the study of behaviour, mental processes and emotional functioning with broader social structures, institutions and group dynamics. 
You’ll still explore the inner workings of the mind, but also examine how society influences behaviour, identity and relationships. This dual approach offers a wider lens – ideal for those interested in both personal and societal factors shaping human experience.

Year 1

In this top up year you'll take part in academic debates, gaining an advanced understanding of the central areas of psychology. You’ll select advanced topics that reflect your own specialist interests and undertake a comprehensive piece of research as your final year project with the support of your academic supervisor.
Diverse group of students studying - stock photo. Getty 1430113521.

Core modules

PSYC600
Careers Planning 0 credits

This zero-credit module is home to careers talks.

PSYC601
Current Topics in Psychology 1 20 credits

In this module you have a free choice of two topics drawn from across the breadth of the psychology, delivered by specialist academic or practitioner from that field. This choice will allow you to focus and develop an in-depth critical appreciation, knowledge, and skill base in areas of particular interest and utility to you and your future vocation.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PSYC603
Current Topics in Psychology 3 20 credits

In this module you have a free choice of two topics drawn from across the breadth of the psychology, delivered by specialist academic or practitioner from that field. This choice will allow you to focus and develop an in-depth critical appreciation, knowledge, and skill base in areas of particular interest and utility to you and your future vocation.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PSYC605
Research Project 40 credits

In this module you will undertake a comprehensive research project to investigate an original psychological research question in an area of your own choosing. Research training is provided across a wide range of workshops such that, with close support from your research supervisor, you will design and conduct an experiment or study to address your question, analyse data and communicate your findings verbally and in writing.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3

Optional modules

PSYC602
Current Topics in Psychology 2 20 credits

In this module you have a free choice of two topics drawn from across the breadth of the psychology, delivered by specialist academic or practitioner from that field. This choice will allow you to focus and develop an in-depth critical appreciation, knowledge, and skill base in areas of particular interest and utility to you and your future vocation.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PSYC604
Current Topics in Psychology 4 20 credits

In this module you have a free choice of two topics drawn from across the breadth of the psychology, delivered by specialist academic or practitioner from that field. This choice will allow you to focus and develop an in-depth critical appreciation, knowledge, and skill base in areas of particular interest and utility to you and your future vocation

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SOC6001
Media, State and Society 20 credits

The media occupy key arenas whereby various social groups compete with one another to set public, political, commercial and cultural agendas. This module examines the relationship between media, state and society. It covers a number of substantive topic areas such as environmental issues, terrorism, war reporting, gender, crime and violence.

100% Coursework

SOC6002
Food, Culture and Society 20 credits

This module aims to provide a critical understanding of sociological issues relating to food and foodways, (the beliefs and behaviours surrounding the production, distribution and consumption of food both on an individual and collective level). The module encourages critical reflection and practical experience of research in the area of food and foodways, with a focus on lived experience.

100% Coursework

SOC6004MX
Health, Medical Power and Social Justice 20 credits

This module considers a range of issues concerning health, illness and medical power in contemporary society. The module seeks to develop an understanding of the impact of ‘medicalisation’ on everyday life, as well as the importance of social divisions, such as age, gender, ethnicity and socio-economic status. There will be a focus on a range of sociological perspectives on health with an opportunity to focus upon areas of particular interest.

100% Coursework

ANT6002
Different Ways of Knowing: The Anthropology of truth, post-truth and conspiracy 20 credits

This module explores the nature of knowledge and truth from a cross-cultural perspective. How do ideas of truth differ culturally, and change over time? How do people produce, guard, and destroy knowledge? After an introduction to phenomenology and ontology, students will be able to engage with different systems of truth and knowledge - from oral history, to scientific debate, to prophecy and conspiracy.

60% Coursework

40% Practicals

SOC6003
The Politics of Wasted Lives 20 credits

The module explores contemporary theories of the emergence of surplus populations and how aspects of Modernity actively ‘wastes’ or makes superfluous the lives of outcast communities (eg. refugees, slum communities, segregated, concentrated and incarcerated peoples). Students critically reflect upon the political and ethical dimensions of social science for its part in Modernity’s processes and the wider impact social researchers have upon individuals and populations.

100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

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No.1 for Industry Offering Psychology in the UK

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Top 2 overall for Psychology in the UK for 2024

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Top 3 for Teaching in the UK for Psychology
 

Experiential learning

We've redesigned the way we teach psychology. We always seek feedback from students in order to continually improve our courses. As a result, we have created a curriculum that focuses on active learning. Our range of practical activities and specialist facilities are embedded throughout our courses, enabling you to put your new knowledge into practice from the outset and shaping you into the best psychologist and professional you can be. 
Our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment are available for students to book and use, supporting your learning across the breadth of psychology, enhancing your potential, and helping you develop essential skills.
A patient sits in a chair with an ultrasound device on their head for Dr Elsa Fouragnan's research
 
 
 
 
 

A world of opportunity

My eyes have been opened to so many areas of psychology that I love, psychology graduates can go into so many areas – if something involves people, then at some level psychology is involved.

BSc (Hons) Psychology student Lucy tells us about how studying at Plymouth ignited her passion for psychology. 

A great lecturer once said that psychology is the subject of everything. It is a topic that does not restrict your interests, but it allows them to grow. What I also love about the course is it not only provides you with the content, but it also equips you with skills that you can take into the real world. You learn to problem solve, analyse data, work as a team, and build a bank of knowledge for many future careers.

Chloe, BSc (Hons) Psychology student 
 
 

Taught by experts

Our staff are actively engaged in research, staying at the forefront of scientific knowledge by constantly developing new theories and making innovative discoveries. This ensures that, alongside studying classic theories and findings from past research, you'll gain insights into the current state of psychology from experts in the field.
 

Meet your lecturers

Professor Jeremy Goslin Head of School of Psychology


Head of School of Psychology

Dr Gustav Kuhn Associate Head of School for Marketing, Recruitment and Strategic Growth


Associate Head of School for Marketing, Recruitment and Strategic Growth

Dr Chris Longmore Lecturer in Psychology


Lecturer in Psychology

Show all
 
 
 
 

Join our psychology society 'PsySoc'

The Psychology Society is a welcoming and inclusive community built by members, for members. Whether you're studying psychology, interested in human behaviour, or simply looking to connect with like-minded people, we want you to be part of this amazing journey. Our mission is clear: to create a space where everyone feels supported and engaged while exploring and growing within the world of psychology.
Psychology students outside UPSU
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

 
 
Benefit from our reputation as a centre of excellence in clinical psychology, gaining insights from practitioners involved in our masters and doctoral training programmes.
Our one-year top-up degree is designed to build on your existing qualifications and leave you with a full honours degree, ready to pursue a wide range of careers in fields such as mental health, education, business and social care, and highly transferable across many other professions. 
It also opens the door to postgraduate study, leading to specialist roles such as clinical, educational, forensic, or organisational psychologist. Alongside subject expertise, you’ll sharpen key transferable skills – critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and data analysis – that form the foundation for success in countless career paths.
Psychology students around table working together

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Specifically for students who have successfully achieved a Foundation Degree/HND from a psychology-related subject/course. Applicants with other qualifications at the appropriate level and experience may also be considered.
A Foundation Degree (FSc) that has been approved by the School of Psychology and has been validated by University of Plymouth.
Applications from those with FSc degrees or HE diplomas (or equivalent) from other HE institutions will be considered where at least 160 credits of the programme are core topics in Psychology.
Please note that this final year course would not allow you eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
C817
Institution code
P60
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

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    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
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    • UCAS course code
    C817
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    1 year

    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
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    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.