Course Description

The BSc (Hons) Psychology degree at Anglia Ruskin University offers an in-depth exploration of human thought, emotion, and behaviour. Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), this course provides a scientific foundation for understanding the principles that shape how individuals think, feel, and act in diverse contexts.

Students develop analytical, critical, and research-based skills through a combination of theoretical study, laboratory work, and real-world application. The curriculum covers multiple branches of psychology, including applied, cognitive, biological, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.

Delivered in ARU’s state-of-the-art Science Centre, the programme ensures students gain practical experience using professional research equipment and technology. Upon successful completion of the degree with at least a second-class honours classification, graduates are eligible for Graduate Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society — the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.


What You Will Learn

Students will build a scientific and applied understanding of the major fields within psychology, including cognition, neuroscience, social behaviour, and mental health. The course is designed to:

  • Develop knowledge of the theories, concepts, and research methods that underpin modern psychology.

  • Strengthen critical thinking and data analysis skills through qualitative and quantitative research.

  • Provide practical experience in experimental design, observation, and psychological assessment.

  • Enhance understanding of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to mental health.

  • Build transferable skills such as academic writing, ethical reasoning, teamwork, and effective communication.

By the end of the course, students will possess the intellectual and practical expertise required to conduct psychological research and apply psychological principles in professional settings.

Why study this course?

The BSc (Hons) Psychology at ARU is designed for students seeking both academic excellence and career relevance. Key reasons to choose this course include:

  • British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation, ensuring eligibility for Graduate Chartered Membership.

  • Delivered by experienced academics engaged in internationally recognised psychological research.

  • Access to advanced psychology laboratories, including EEG, neuroscience, perception, and biomarker analysis facilities.

  • Real-world learning through live briefs and case-based assignments developed with industry partners.

  • Flexible learning structure, with optional modules that allow students to tailor their degree to areas of personal interest.

  • Award-winning university, recognised as Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023 and rated Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

Your exams have been developed to assist you in applying what you've learned in the classroom to real-world settings. This means you'll be more prepared to apply the skills you've learned on the course to your future professional career. As you progress through your course modules, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of beneficial assessment methods such as:

  • Research projects and laboratory reports

  • Essays and critical evaluations

  • Oral and poster presentations

  • Case studies and reflective journals

  • Examinations and data analysis exercises

Modules

  • Academic and Professional Skills
  • Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology
  • Introduction to Biological and Cognitive Psychology
  • Introduction to Psychological Research Methods

  • Advanced Social and Developmental Psychology
  • Advanced Research Methods
  • Advanced Biological and Cognitive Psychology
  • Essential Issues in Psychology, History and Individual Differences

  • Psychology of Everyday Life
  • Psychological Applications in Professional Contexts
  • Forensic and Clinical Psychology
  • Research Project

Study & Career Progression

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Psychology programme are eligible for Graduate Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing the foundation for progression towards full Chartered Psychologist status.

Career paths include:

  • Clinical Psychologist

  • Forensic Psychologist

  • Health Psychologist

  • Occupational Psychologist

  • Educational Psychologist

  • Counselling Psychologist

  • Research Analyst

  • Behavioural Consultant

  • Human Resources Specialist

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in psychology and related disciplines, including the MSc in Psychology, MSc in Clinical Psychology, or Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. Through a balance of academic excellence and professional development, this course prepares students for success in both research and applied psychology careers.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan, it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.

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