Psychology is part of our everyday lives, from how we react to different environments through to the impact of social media on our wellbeing. Our single honours Psychology degree will give you a deeper understanding of the mind and why we behave the way we do. The focus will be on applying your knowledge in the real world.
Why choose University of Staffordshire for Psychology?
- 8th for Student Satisfaction in Psychology (Complete University Guide 2025)
- 8th for Academic Support in Psychology (National Student Survey 2024)
- 5th for Assessment and Feedback in Psychology (National Student Survey 2024)
- Top 20 for Learning Opportunities in Psychology (National Student Survey 2024)
- Top 20 for Student Voice (National Student Survey 2024 - Psychology)
Course overview
On our core Psychology degree, you'll be delving into key questions. How do we help someone who has mental health struggles? Why does nature often make us happier? What is the psychology behind social movements?
The course will cover a broad sweep of psychological disciplines, including clinical, developmental, health, cognitive and forensic psychology. It means you can discover your niche and then go on to specialise in this area. Ideal for shaping the in-depth research project you will complete in your final year.
Optional modules include doing a research assistantship, working on live research alongside one of our academic experts. You can also choose to undertake a placement year, where you will gain invaluable experience for future employment.
As a psychologist in training, you’ll receive lots of support and will become confident in analysing data and producing scientific reports.
The modules include contemporary issues, covering topics as diverse as conspiracy theories, cyber-bullying, and the psychology of leadership.
You’ll have access to our fantastic Science Centre facilities too, including cognitive research cubicles, psychophysiology equipment, simulation machines and observation suites.
The degree is accredited by the BPS (British Psychological Society), which means you can undertake postgraduate training to become a professional psychologist in a specialist field. But the transferable skills you learn could also lead to lots of other career opportunities.
Duration
University of Staffordshire undergraduate courses are usually 3 years for full-time study.
Courses which offer other study options have longer durations:
- Full-time with a placement year, 4 years
- Full-time with a foundation year, 4 years
- Part-time, 4-9 years
Work placements
As well as shorter placements, students have the option of undertaking a placement (sandwich) year. This typically involves working for three days a week for a nine-month period.
The placement year is becoming an increasingly popular choice, with feedback showing students are overwhelmingly positive about the experience.
Choose your dream placement with support from our staff. Examples have included working with the YMCA, as a mental health support worker or study support worker in a school, or working with the charity Mind.
Throughout your placement, you’ll have a workplace supervisor and regular contact with the University. The fee for a placement year will vary - please get in touch if you would like more information about this.
Students on our psychology courses are also encouraged to find voluntary work. It could include supporting people experiencing homelessness, helping with charities, or volunteering with organisations that work with vulnerable children.