Psychology
BSc (Hons)
Key information
Key information for 2026-27
Key information for 2027-28
Course Overview
Psychology is an exciting and dynamic field of study concerned with the scientific investigation of how people think, feel and behave as individuals, in groups and in their wider context. Our BSc Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), and gives you a comprehensive grounding in psychology and specialisms including biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology.
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Why choose this course?
- You will study in Birkbeck’s School of Psychological Sciences, a world-leading centre of research excellence, and be taught by research-active academics who bring their cutting-edge expertise into the classroom.
- You can tailor your studies to match your interests and career ambitions, and specialise in psychology with child development, psychology in practice, or psychology with neuroscience.
- This BSc Psychology will enable you to take the first steps towards Chartered Membership of the BPS. This is essential for any further specialist psychology training.
- We welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds. Throughout your learning journey you will be supported by a senior tutor, our learning support team and a full programme of extracurricular enrichment, to ensure you are successful and get the most out of your course.
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What will I learn?
This rigorous course introduces you to psychological theories, methods and models to observe, interpret and explain human behaviour. You will gain insight into a wide range of scientific theory and practice from behavioural experiments to brain imaging to clinical assessments, in healthy and patient populations.
You will begin by studying in depth research-led topics such as social psychology, individual differences, cognition, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and research methods for psychology, developing academic and transferable skills alongside. Towards the end of the course, you can select from a variety of option modules covering specialist topics directly relevant to contemporary practices in psychology depending on your interests and career aspirations.
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How will I learn?
Teaching on the BSc Psychology typically takes the form of lectures led by our experienced team of academics, and small-group practical classes support the teaching of our research methods modules to bring the topics to life in the lab.
We offer an inclusive environment with a range of pathways, including an accelerated foundation year route for those with non-traditional qualifications. You can study this course full- or part-time. You can also choose your own timetable for the core/compulsory modules selecting whether to study them in the daytime or in the evening. Find out more about choosing your own timetable.
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How often will I attend classes?
Full-time: Usually three afternoons or evenings a week, October to July.
Part-time: Usually two afternoons or evenings a week, October to July.
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Accelerated Foundation Year
This Accelerated Foundation Year route offers you flexible entry onto this rigorous degree. It will fully prepare you for undergraduate study and is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on this undergraduate degree.
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Course disclaimer
Birkbeck makes all reasonable efforts to deliver educational services, modules and programmes of study as described on our website. In the event that there are material changes to our offering (for example, due to matters beyond our control), we will update applicant and student facing information as quickly as possible and offer alternatives to applicants, offer-holders and current students.
Most of our courses are taught in the evenings, however some of our courses offer a daytime timetable. Where there is an option to attend daytime teaching sessions, this is stated in the How will I learn? section.
More Highlights
- According to the National Student Survey 2023, students are very satisfied with our teaching (92.5%), our learning resources (90.9%) and the learning opportunities we provide (85.7%).
- Birkbeck is strongly oriented towards research in psychological sciences and we are home to the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development (including the BabyLab and ToddlerLab), the Birkbeck-UCL Centre for Neuroimaging and the Centre for Cognition, Computation and Modelling. We also recently became members of the Bloomsbury Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Statistics.
- We are consistently regarded as one of the top institutions teaching psychological sciences in the UK. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, and for the third time, we were ranked in the top ten universities in the UK.
Modules and Teaching
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Starting in October 2026
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Three years full-time, on campus
Course structure
You must complete modules worth a total of 360 credits
A key feature of this programme is its pathways, which enable you to specialise in your final year. All students take the same modules in Years 1 and 2, giving you a solid foundation in generic and subject-specific knowledge and skills. You then select a pathway in Year 3, choosing from a wide range of specialist option modules to tailor your degree to your interests and career ambitions. You can follow pathways in:
- Psychology
- Psychology with Neuroscience
- Psychology with Child Development
- Psychology in Practice.
Another distinctive feature of this course is that students who choose the Psychology or the Psychology in Practice pathway can choose to graduate with either a BSc or a BA. The BA pathway is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Year 1 and Year 2, all pathways
- Year 1: seven compulsory modules
- Year 2: eight compulsory modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: six compulsory modules and two option modules
- BA Psychology in Practice: six compulsory modules and two option modules
Year 3:
BSc Psychology pathway
- Six option modules
- Project
BA Psychology pathway
- Six option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
BSc Psychology with Neuroscience pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology with Child Development pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BA Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
Year 1 compulsory modules - all pathways
- Academic Skills for Psychology
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Introduction to Individual Differences
- Introduction to Neuroscience
- Introduction to Research Methods
- Introduction to Social Psychology
Year 2 BSc Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Neuroscience
- Perception and Attention
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Neuroscience
- Perception and Attention
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology option modules
- Psychological and Developmental Issues in Childhood and Adolescence
- Psychology for Personal and Professional Development
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Perspectives on Development
Year 3 BSc Psychology project
Year 3 BA Psychology dissertation
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience compulsory module and project
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Child Development compulsory module and project
Year 3 BSc Psychology in Practice compulsory module and project
Year 3 BA Psychology in Practice compulsory module and dissertation
Year 3 BSc/BA Psychology indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience indicative option modules
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Cognitive Modelling
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Child Development indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc/BA Psychology in Practice indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Please note that students who complete the BA Psychology and the BA Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists, while students who complete the BSc Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists until they undergo BPS-accredited postgraduate training.
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Four years part-time, on campus
Course structure
You must complete modules worth a total of 360 credits.
In your first year, you take either Route 1 or Route 1A, depending on your educational background and experience.
Route 1A is specially tailored for students who have non-traditional entry qualifications, or who have been out of education for some time, or who lack confidence and need extra support. This route will give you the understanding, skills and confidence to successfully complete an undergraduate degree in psychology. You will be taught in small, supportive groups in your first year, before joining the rest of your cohort in your second year.
A key feature of this programme is its pathways, which enable you to specialise in your final year. All students take the same modules in Years 1 and 2, giving you a solid foundation in generic and subject-specific knowledge and skills. You then select a pathway in Years 3 and 4, choosing from a wide range of specialist option modules to tailor your programme to your interests and career ambitions. You can follow pathways in:
- Psychology
- Psychology with Neuroscience
- Psychology with Child Development
- Psychology in Practice.
Another distinctive feature of this programme is that students who choose the Psychology or the Psychology in Practice pathway can graduate with either a BSc or a BA. The BA is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Years 1, 2 and 3 - all pathways
- Year 1, Route 1: five compulsory modules
- Year 1, Route 1A: six compulsory modules, including an uncredited study skills module
- Year 2: six compulsory modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: five compulsory modules and one option module
- BA Psychology in Practice: five compulsory modules and one option module
- Year 3: four compulsory modules and two option modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: three compulsory modules, one Level 5 and two Level 6 option modules
- BA Psychology in Practice: three compulsory modules, one Level 5 and two Level 6 option modules
Year 4
BSc Psychology pathway
- Four option modules
- Project
BA Psychology pathway
- Four option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
BSc Psychology with Neuroscience pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology with Child Development pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BA Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
Year 1: Route 1
- Academic Skills for Psychology
- Introduction to Individual Differences
- Introduction to Neuroscience
- Introduction to Research Methods
- Introduction to Social Psychology
Year 1: Route 1A
- Psychology Study Skills
- Research Methods in Practice
- Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology
- Understanding Applied Social Psychology
- Understanding Individual Differences
- Understanding Neuroscience
- Understanding Research Methods for Psychology
Year 2 BSc Psychology compulsory modules - all pathways
- Cognition
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Social Psychology
Year 3 BSc Psychology compulsory modules - all pathways
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Perception and Attention
- Qualitative Research Methods
Year 3 BA Psychology compulsory modules
Year 3 BA Psychology option modules
- Psychological and Developmental Issues in Childhood and Adolescence
- Psychology for Personal and Professional Development
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Perspectives on Development
Year 4 BSc Psychology project
Year 4 BA Psychology dissertation
Year 3/4 BSc/BA Psychology indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 4 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience compulsory module and project
Year 4 BSc Psychology with Child Development compulsory module and project
Year 4 BSc Psychology in Practice compulsory module and project
Year 4 BA Psychology in Practice compulsory module and dissertation
Year 3/4 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience indicative option modules
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Cognitive Modelling
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3/4 BSc Psychology with Child Development indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3/4 BSc/BA Psychology in Practice indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Please note that students who complete the BA Psychology and the BA Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists, while students who complete the BSc Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists until they undergo BPS-accredited postgraduate training.
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Four years full-time, on campus, with Accelerated Foundation Year
Course structure
For this Accelerated Foundation Year, you must take nine core modules at Level 4, to a total of 120 credits.
If you successfully complete these modules, you will automatically advance on to the three-year, full-time BSc Psychology, where you can choose from the following pathways:
- BSc/BA Psychology
- BSc/BA Psychology in Practice
- BSc Psychology with Child Development
- BSc Psychology with Neuroscience
Foundation Year core modules
- Psychology Study Skills
- Research Methods in Practice
- Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology
- Understanding Applied Cognitive Psychology
- Understanding Applied Social Psychology
- Understanding Developmental Psychology
- Understanding Individual Differences
- Understanding Neuroscience
- Understanding Research Methods for Psychology
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Starting in October 2027
-
Three years full-time, on campus
Course structure
You must complete modules worth a total of 360 credits
A key feature of this programme is its pathways, which enable you to specialise in your final year. All students take the same modules in Years 1 and 2, giving you a solid foundation in generic and subject-specific knowledge and skills. You then select a pathway in Year 3, choosing from a wide range of specialist option modules to tailor your degree to your interests and career ambitions. You can follow pathways in:
- Psychology
- Psychology with Neuroscience
- Psychology with Child Development
- Psychology in Practice.
Another distinctive feature of this course is that students who choose the Psychology or the Psychology in Practice pathway can choose to graduate with either a BSc or a BA. The BA pathway is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Year 1 and Year 2, all pathways
- Year 1: seven compulsory modules
- Year 2: eight compulsory modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: six compulsory modules and two option modules
- BA Psychology in Practice: six compulsory modules and two option modules
Year 3:
BSc Psychology pathway
- Six option modules
- Project
BA Psychology pathway
- Six option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
BSc Psychology with Neuroscience pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology with Child Development pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Project
BA Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Five option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
Year 1 compulsory modules - all pathways
- Academic Skills for Psychology
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Introduction to Individual Differences
- Introduction to Neuroscience
- Introduction to Research Methods
- Introduction to Social Psychology
Year 2 BSc Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Neuroscience
- Perception and Attention
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Neuroscience
- Perception and Attention
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology option modules
- Psychological and Developmental Issues in Childhood and Adolescence
- Psychology for Personal and Professional Development
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Perspectives on Development
Year 3 BSc Psychology project
Year 3 BA Psychology dissertation
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience compulsory module and project
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Child Development compulsory module and project
Year 3 BSc Psychology in Practice compulsory module and project
Year 3 BA Psychology in Practice compulsory module and dissertation
Year 3 BSc/BA Psychology indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience indicative option modules
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Cognitive Modelling
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc Psychology with Child Development indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3 BSc/BA Psychology in Practice indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Please note that students who complete the BA Psychology and the BA Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists, while students who complete the BSc Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists until they undergo BPS-accredited postgraduate training.
-
Four years part-time, on campus
Course structure
You must complete modules worth a total of 360 credits.
In your first year, you take either Route 1 or Route 1A, depending on your educational background and experience.
Route 1A is specially tailored for students who have non-traditional entry qualifications, or who have been out of education for some time, or who lack confidence and need extra support. This route will give you the understanding, skills and confidence to successfully complete an undergraduate degree in psychology. You will be taught in small, supportive groups in your first year, before joining the rest of your cohort in your second year.
A key feature of this programme is its pathways, which enable you to specialise in your final year. All students take the same modules in Years 1 and 2, giving you a solid foundation in generic and subject-specific knowledge and skills. You then select a pathway in Years 3 and 4, choosing from a wide range of specialist option modules to tailor your programme to your interests and career ambitions. You can follow pathways in:
- Psychology
- Psychology with Neuroscience
- Psychology with Child Development
- Psychology in Practice.
Another distinctive feature of this programme is that students who choose the Psychology or the Psychology in Practice pathway can graduate with either a BSc or a BA. The BA is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Years 1, 2 and 3 - all pathways
- Year 1, Route 1: five compulsory modules
- Year 1, Route 1A: six compulsory modules, including an uncredited study skills module
- Year 2: six compulsory modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: five compulsory modules and one option module
- BA Psychology in Practice: five compulsory modules and one option module
- Year 3: four compulsory modules and two option modules, with the exception of:
- BA Psychology: three compulsory modules, one Level 5 and two Level 6 option modules
- BA Psychology in Practice: three compulsory modules, one Level 5 and two Level 6 option modules
Year 4
BSc Psychology pathway
- Four option modules
- Project
BA Psychology pathway
- Four option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
BSc Psychology with Neuroscience pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology with Child Development pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BSc Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Project
BA Psychology in Practice pathway
- Compulsory module
- Three option modules
- Theoretical dissertation
Year 1: Route 1
- Academic Skills for Psychology
- Introduction to Individual Differences
- Introduction to Neuroscience
- Introduction to Research Methods
- Introduction to Social Psychology
Year 1: Route 1A
- Psychology Study Skills
- Research Methods in Practice
- Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology
- Understanding Applied Social Psychology
- Understanding Individual Differences
- Understanding Neuroscience
- Understanding Research Methods for Psychology
Year 2 BSc Psychology compulsory modules - all pathways
- Cognition
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Psychology
Year 2 BA Psychology compulsory modules
- Cognition
- Introduction to Cognition
- Introduction to Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Social Psychology
Year 3 BSc Psychology compulsory modules - all pathways
- Developmental Psychology
- Individual Differences
- Perception and Attention
- Qualitative Research Methods
Year 3 BA Psychology compulsory modules
Year 3 BA Psychology option modules
- Psychological and Developmental Issues in Childhood and Adolescence
- Psychology for Personal and Professional Development
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Social Perspectives on Development
Year 4 BSc Psychology project
Year 4 BA Psychology dissertation
Year 3/4 BSc/BA Psychology indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 4 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience compulsory module and project
Year 4 BSc Psychology with Child Development compulsory module and project
Year 4 BSc Psychology in Practice compulsory module and project
Year 4 BA Psychology in Practice compulsory module and dissertation
Year 3/4 BSc Psychology with Neuroscience indicative option modules
- Brain and Cognitive Development
- Cognitive Modelling
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Neuropsychology
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3/4 BSc Psychology with Child Development indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Cognitive Modelling
- Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Genetics and Psychology
- Language
- Neurodiversity
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Year 3/4 BSc/BA Psychology in Practice indicative option modules
- Attachment Theory: Introduction and Critique
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Cognitive Modelling
- Educational Psychology
- Family Studies
- Neuropsychology
- Psychology in Public Policy
- Qualitative Research in Psychology
- R for Reproducible Psychological Research
Please note that students who complete the BA Psychology and the BA Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists, while students who complete the BSc Psychology in Practice will not be qualified to work as applied psychologists until they undergo BPS-accredited postgraduate training.
-
Four years full-time, on campus, with Accelerated Foundation Year
Course structure
For this Accelerated Foundation Year, you must take nine core modules at Level 4, to a total of 120 credits.
If you successfully complete these modules, you will automatically advance on to the three-year, full-time BSc Psychology, where you can choose from the following pathways:
- BSc/BA Psychology
- BSc/BA Psychology in Practice
- BSc Psychology with Child Development
- BSc Psychology with Neuroscience
Foundation Year core modules
- Psychology Study Skills
- Research Methods in Practice
- Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology
- Understanding Applied Cognitive Psychology
- Understanding Applied Social Psychology
- Understanding Developmental Psychology
- Understanding Individual Differences
- Understanding Neuroscience
- Understanding Research Methods for Psychology
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Teaching
We encourage innovative and engaging ways of teaching to help ensure you have the best learning experience and provide a range of different modes of learning to help you juggle study with work and other commitments.
What are the methods of teaching?
Most modules are primarily taught via lectures. Practical laboratory sessions and small-group teaching are important components of some modules.
Outside of the classroom, we advise that, as a minimum, you allocate at least one to two hours of home study for every hour of lectures.
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How will I be assessed?
Our assessment methods vary from traditional formats such as essays and exams to more interactive approaches including multiple-choice quizzes, lab reports, posters, video presentations, counselling formulations and reflective logs.
Currently some modules are assessed by written examinations taken during the day in mid-May to mid-June. Some modules include coursework. Coursework deadlines are throughout the year and vary from module to module.
Please see individual modules for more details.
Find out more about assessment at Birkbeck, including guidance on assessment, feedback and our assessment offences policy.
Entry Requirements
We welcome applicants without traditional entry qualifications as we base decisions on our own assessment of qualifications, knowledge and previous work experience. We may waive formal entry requirements based on judgement of academic potential.
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Full-time study - how many UCAS points do I need?
- Three years full-time: 120 points (e.g. A-levels BBB)
- Four years full-time with Accelerated Foundation Year: 64 points
For full-time study on this course, you apply via UCAS. The UCAS tariff score applies if you have recently studied a qualification that has a UCAS tariff equivalence. UCAS provides a tariff calculator for you to work out what your qualification is worth.
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Part-time study
For part-time study our standard requirements are a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent.
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What GCSEs do I need?
GCSE (or equivalent) at grade C or grade 4 or above in mathematics is required.
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Alternative entry routes
Three years full-time or four years part-time: Access to Higher Education Diploma with a pass in a relevant subject. Students who complete specified introductory modules from the Certificate of Higher Education in Psychology are always considered for entry on to this course.
Three years full-time: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma - DDM
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What are the English language requirements?
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. We also accept other English language tests.
If you don't meet the minimum English language requirements, please contact us or see our international study skills page for more details about how we can help.
Visit the International section of our website to find out more about our English language entry requirements and relevant requirements by country.
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What are the visa and funding requirements?
If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa.
The visa you apply for varies according to the length of your course:
- Courses of more than six months' duration: Student visa
- Courses of less than six months' duration: Standard Visitor visa
International students who require a Student visa should apply to study on our courses full-time as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. If you are living in the UK on a Student visa, you will not be eligible to enrol to study part-time courses at Birkbeck (with the exception of some modules).
As a Student visa student, you should also apply to study on campus only, as online and flexible options of study (if they are available for your course) may affect the conditions of your visa.
For full information, read our visa information for international students page.
Please also visit the international section of our website to find out more about relevant visa and funding requirements by country.
Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.
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Credits and accredited prior learning (APL)
If you have studied at university (or have an HND or Foundation Degree), you may have accumulated credits. It may be possible to transfer these from your previous study to Birkbeck or another institution.
Fees
Three years full-time, on campus
Academic year 2026-27, starting in October 2026
Full-time home students: £9,790 per year
Full-time international students: £18,500 per year
Academic year 2027-28, starting in October 2027
Full-time home students: £10,050 per year
Full-time international students: £19,320 per year
Four years part-time, on campus
Academic year 2026-27, starting in October 2026
Part-time home students: £7,335 per year
Part-time international students: £13,875 per year
Academic year 2027-28, starting in October 2027
Part-time home students: £7,530 per year
Part-time international students: £14,490 per year
Four years full-time, with Accelerated Foundation Year, on campus
Academic year 2026-27, starting in October 2026
Full-time home students, Year 1: £7,335 per year
Full-time international students, Year 1: £18,500 per year
Full-time home students, Year 2+: £9,790 per year
Full-time international students, Year 2+: £18,500 per year
Academic year 2027-28, starting in October 2027
Full-time home students, Year 1: £7,530 per year
Full-time international students, Year 1: £19,320 per year
Full-time home students, Year 2+: £10,050 per year
Full-time international students, Year 2+: £19,320 per year
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing their course may be subject to annual inflationary increases. For more information, please see our Fees Policy.
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Birkbeck's Lifelong Learning Guarantee
If you've studied at Birkbeck before and successfully completed an award with us, take advantage of our Lifelong Learning Guarantee to gain a reduction on the tuition fee of this course.
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Tuition fees and maintenance loans
Eligible full-time and part-time students from the UK don't have to pay any tuition fees upfront, as government loans are available to cover them.
Maintenance loans are also available for eligible full-time and part-time UK students, to help cover living costs, such as accommodation, food, travel, books and study materials. The amount you receive is means-tested and depends on where you live and study and your household income.
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Am I eligible for a loan if I've previously studied?
You can apply for a government tuition fee loan for the four- and six-year part-time routes even if you already have a degree or a qualification at an equivalent or higher level (ELQ).
Find out more about government tuition fee loans and ELQ-exempt courses.
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Can I apply for an international scholarship?
We provide a range of scholarships for eligible international students, including our Global Future Scholarship. View Birkbeck's available scholarships.
Birkbeck's campus is located in the historic and vibrant Bloomsbury area of central London - named one of the best places to live in London 2025 by The Times.
Careers and employability
Graduates can pursue career paths in psychology, human relations, education or marketing and advertising. Possible professions include:
- clinical psychologist/counselling psychologist
- user experience (UX) researcher
- educational psychologist
- further education lecturer
- human resources officer
- market researcher
- academic or business researcher.
We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.
Student Support
Birkbeck offers study, learning and wellbeing support to undergraduate and postgraduate students to help them succeed.
Our Learning Development Service provides a lively programme of free weekly workshops building essential academic skills - from writing and critical thinking to maths and referencing - offering flexible sessions, practical tips, and online resources to boost your skills and confidence.
Our Disability and Mental Health Service can support you if you have disabilities, specific learning differences, mental health conditions or neurodivergence, by providing practical support to help you achieve your academic potential.
Our Counselling Service aims to support you with any emotional and psychological difficulties that are affecting your experience and engagement with your studies at university. It is a free, non-judgemental and confidential service which consists of a consultation process followed by time limited counselling contact.
Find out more about the full range of student services we offer at Birkbeck.
How to Apply
You apply via UCAS for our full-time undergraduate courses or directly to Birkbeck for our part-time undergraduate courses. For more detailed, step-by-step guidance on how to apply, visit our How to apply page.
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How do I apply to study full-time (UCAS entry)?
If you are applying for a full-time undergraduate course at Birkbeck you apply through UCAS. Use the Apply now button on this course page which will direct you to UCAS. There you will be prompted to sign in and create an account. You will have to give UCAS a few personal details, including your name, address and date of birth, and then you can start working on your application.
The first UCAS deadline is in January, and the majority of university applications through UCAS are made by then. Find the exact deadline date on the UCAS website. We welcome applications outside of the UCAS deadlines, so you can still apply through UCAS after the January deadline, depending on the availability of places. We also take late applications via the UCAS Clearing system in August.
You may be called for interview if you do not meet the standard entry requirements. Please complete your application form carefully and include detailed information about your educational qualifications (particularly mathematics and, if English is not your first language, IELTS qualification) and/or courses you are studying in order to meet the entry requirements. If your current work involves a high level of numeracy and literacy, please include this information. A clear, well-written statement in support of your application, demonstrating a thoughtful and considered approach to studying psychology at degree level, is essential. Please ensure you provide an academic reference and supporting statement with your application.
In your application you need to demonstrate:
- an understanding of what academic psychology is and what it is not, and why you would like to study academic psychology
- an understanding of the amount of time you will need to dedicate to your studies both in and out of the 'classroom', and your capacity to manage your time effectively to make this possible
- your motivation to complete a challenging science course even when stressors at home, work and college make studying difficult, and your ability to make use of the support available appropriately.
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How do I apply to study part-time?
If you are applying for a part-time undergraduate course (usually four or six years), you apply directly to Birkbeck online by using the Apply now button. You will need to prove your identity when you apply.
Please note that online application opens in September.
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When should I apply?
You are strongly advised to apply now, to ensure there are still places left, and to give you enough time to complete the admissions process, to arrange funding and to enrol.
You don't need to complete your current programme of study before you apply - Birkbeck can offer you a place that is conditional on your results.
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How can I get help with my application?
Get all the information you need about the application, admission and enrolment process at Birkbeck.
Our online personal statement tool will guide you through every step of writing the personal statement part of your application.
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International agents
If you are an international agent applying to Birkbeck on behalf of an international student, please use Birkbeck's agent portal.
Study routes for Psychology (BSc (Hons))
Please select a study route below to continue your application.
Please note that international students who require a Student visa to study in the UK can only apply for full-time, on campus routes.
Important: Applications to study part-time in 2027/28 will open in October 2026.
2026-27
Full-time
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Three years full-time, on campus starting in October 2026
Apply now via Clearing Psychology (BSc (Hons)) Three years full-time, on campus starting in October 2026 -
Four years full-time, on campus with Accelerated Foundation Year starting in October 2026
Apply now via Clearing Psychology (BSc (Hons)) Four years full-time, on campus with Accelerated Foundation Year starting in October 2026
Part-time
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Four years part-time, on campus starting in October 2026
Apply Now Psychology (BSc (Hons)) Four years part-time, on campus starting in October 2026
2027-28
Full-time
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Three years full-time, on campus starting in October 2027
Apply now via UCAS Psychology (BSc (Hons)) Three years full-time, on campus starting in October 2027 -
Four years full-time, on campus with Accelerated Foundation Year starting in October 2027
Apply now via UCAS Psychology (BSc (Hons)) Four years full-time, on campus with Accelerated Foundation Year starting in October 2027