Psychology is a fascinating journey into understanding and decoding the human mind, offering valuable insights into behaviour, emotions, and the science behind why we do what we do.
What's on this page?
- Study options
- Chat to a current psychology student
- Subjects it's useful to have studied first
- Careers: Where it can take you
- Getting in: Entry requirements
- Other subjects you may be interested in
- Considering an apprenticeship?
- Explore further
- Application advice
Psychology delves into the complexities of the human mind, examining behaviour, cognition, and emotions.
Studying psychology opens doors to many different career opportunities. From clinical psychologists providing therapeutic support, to industrial-organisational psychologists shaping workplace dynamics, this subject offers the chance for understanding and improving all kinds of aspects of human life.
Psychology is also transferable to other exciting careers such as marketing, human resources, and healthcare, making it a versatile foundation for personal and professional growth. Whether you choose to pursue counselling, research, or organisational development, a background in psychology gives you valuable insights into human behaviour and the skills to make a positive impact on both individuals and communities.
The impact you could make
- Help tackle stigmas, such as mental health, by completing research that influences effective interventions.
- Promote individual wellbeing and develop enhanced self-awareness.
- Influence workplace dynamics or educational settings to promote healthier and more productive environments.
What you could study
- Applied psychology
- Child psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Educational psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Sport psychology
- Experimental psychology
Chat to a current psychology student
Chat to a current psychology student using UniBuddy.
Some conversation starters for you:
- Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
- Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
- Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
- Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
- Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
Chat to students powered by 
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Elizabeth
Staffordshire University
Psychology
I definitely have a huge passion for psychology and aspire to one day have my own clinic where as a practicing psychologist. I also want to do some of my own research on the side, particularly focusing on neurodivergency. Aside from that I am a fan of anime and manga (attack on titan is my favourite), writing and drawing. Anything where I can be creative is what I enjoy the most - anything that isn’t maths haha -
Yasmin
Solent University
BSc (Hons) Psychology
Hello I'm Yaz, a first-year BSc (Hons) Psychology student! I'm an aspiring clinical psychologist passionate about mental health and helping others as a result of struggling with my own mental health issues. I'm from Cornwall with a springer spaniel. Back in January, I raised money for Mind, and now volunteer at Solent Mind. -
Terri
Coventry University
Psychology BSc (Hons)
I am from Hong Kong, and I am a new student ambassador here. I want to become a Forensic Psychologist because I am interested in crime series and human behaviour. I am looking forward to meeting all of you soon. -
Evie
University of Lincoln
Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hi! My name is Evie I am happy to share my experiences about studying Psychology at the University of Lincoln with you! I can tell you about my course and school, facilities on campus, student life and social activities. If your question is not about Psychology please choose the relevant buddy to speak to or email enquiries@lincoln.ac.uk for more help. Please note I am unable to help with the specifics of your application. Thanks! -
Luke
University of Lincoln
Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hi! My name is Luke and I'm a third year psychology student. I'm particularly interested in motor control, visual illusions and cognition. After completing my undergraduate degree I'm planning on doing a research Masters then going on to pursue a career researching motor control and treatments into disabilities. -
Lucy
University of Plymouth
BSc (Hons) Psychology
My dream is to become a clinical psychologist. I have spent lots of time in Sierra Leone and I would love to move out there for a while in the future. I have experience working with children and adults with disabilities. I would love to continue into the future. -
Donjeta
City, University of London
Psychology BSc (Hons)
Hi, my name is Donjeta I am a second-year psychology student here at City. My experience at City has been amazing so far as I have met a lot of wonderful people and enjoyed learning more about the brain. If you have any questions related to studying psychology, I am happy to answer them. -
Lana
Northeastern University London
Philosophy with Psychology BA
Hey! I'm Lana, studying philosophy major with a psychology minor as a first-year.Some of my favourite things to do at the moment include learning to drum and going to the gym. I also love reading fantasy or romance books and love watching or talking about movies! -
Libby
Staffordshire University
Psychology
I moved to Stoke, in order to pursue my passion in psychology further at Staffordshire University. I have previously studied an undergraduate degree in Single Hons Psychology at Staffs. I am studying a Masters in Health Psychology to further my professional development. My time at university has been full of fun and laughter from all the amazing people I have met here, all of whom I love spending time with. -
Zartasha
Keele University
Psychology
My name is Zartasha and I study neuroscience and psychology and Keele. I previously studied Biology, chemistry and psychology and A- levels and I aspire to be a clinical neuropsychologist. In my free time I like to watch sports and movies and spend time with my friends and with nature -
Cecily
Durham University
MSc Psychology
Hi! I'm Cecily, a 3rd Year Psychology student at Durham University. I'm an aspiring psychologist in developmental psychology (adolescent mental health) or women's health. I'm in St Mary's college and I'm a cox for DUBC (although I coxed for St Mary's in my 1st year). -
Benjamin
University of Lincoln
Business Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hello I am Ben, currently in my first year of study at the University of Lincoln, studying Business Psychology at Undergraduate Level. In the future, I hope to get a career working alongside managers of businesses, advising them in areas such as Human Resource or as a Business Psychologist for them. -
Jacqui
University of Northampton
Bsc Psychology
I am 50 years of age, originally from Glasgow in Scotland and left school in 1989, with 8 O' Grades (GCSE’s) and 5 Higher (A Levels). Desperate for a new adventure and to start working and earning, I applied for a job in Television Production in London. I successfully worked for an independent company in Soho, initially as a Production Runner, progressing finally to Production Manager. I returned to Glasgow for a year, to work for BBC Scotland as Production Manager, before taking time out to travel in 1999. I travelled throughout Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and America for 2 years.On return, I moved to Brighton, East Sussex where I worked for American Express, a lifestyle magazine called Venus, and as a volunteer for the Brighton Unemployed Family project, between 2001 and 2012.Brighton is where I met my husband and went on to have two children, a girl, and a boy. Ava who is now 15 years old and Lochlan who is 13.8 years ago, my Husbands job transferred to their other site near Leamington, bringing the family to the midlands. We now live in the village of Weedon, a half-hour drive, west of Northampton. Since living in Weedon I have completed 7 years working in primary education. I began working in Special Needs as a 1:1 and in my 5th year at Weedon Primary, I completed an HLTA course through Northampton University, qualifying me to teach years 1 to 6 in primary school.I have trained in Autism, Attachment Disorder, Dyslexia, Speech, and language among others. I ran nurture groups and introduced a kinaesthetic approach to a lot of my teaching, after researching its efficacy in primary schools.During my school career, I have been fascinated by how children learn. Some by doing, others by seeing. I have come to love the continual questions from children and the challenge and adventure of not always knowing the answers.Throughout my working life, I have loved interacting with people, obsessing over human behaviour and how the mind works and influences decisions. My favourite literature often tackles aspects of psychology and I find it an extremely exciting and alluring subject.Throughout the lockdown period, it became apparent that I was not fully satisfied with my career and felt I was ready to learn and take on a new challenge. My initial thought was to go into Educational Psychology but with more investigation, I decided it was time to move away from education and start something new. My next thought was counselling, which I am still very much keen on exploring and could see a possible future career. As a volunteer in Brighton Unemployed Centre Family Project, I assisted low-income families and homeless people, realising my ability to listen sensitively and offer solace.Completing a course for the British College of Journalism a few years ago, I gained skills in reporting and analysing as well as fuelling my curiosity in psychology. I wrote articles on social, biological, and cognitive psychology. From a piece on music and memory to another on psychology in pain management. Having completed a year of the single honours psychology course I now feel the career direction I want to go into is counselling psychology. I have recently secured a part-time job locally with the group of Northampton psychiatric hospitals (NHFT) and ideally, would love to complete my master's within the NHS but if not I will probably stay at the University of Northampton to complete my master's in counselling. -
Emma
University of Lincoln
Psychology with Forensic Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hi my name is Emma and I am a first year Psychology with Forensic Psychology student. This year I have gotten very involved with uni life participating in extra curricular activities, working and of course going out too. In the future, I am hoping to work somewhere in the psychological field as a psychologist and I also want to travel around the world as well. -
Chloe
University of Lincoln
Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hi Im Chloe, Im a second year Psychology student at Lincoln! At the moment I have just picked my electives for 3rd Year. I really enjoy life at Lincoln and I am happy to answer any questions you may have about Lincoln. -
Samantha
University of Suffolk
BSc (Hons) Psychology
Hello everyone I'm Sam (She/Her), a Part-Time student from Ipswich currently studying Psychology at the University of Suffolk. My journey into higher education started at Suffolk New College, completing a BTEC in Health and Social Care (Health Sciences). In 2013 I went on to graduate from the University Campus Suffolk as an Operating Department Practitioner. I am also a wheelchair (Powerchair) user with multiple long-term conditions. Whilst at the university I have been involved with the Students' Union and held various roles in societies, and I am the current Social Sciences and Humanities School Officer. In my spare time, I love to watch films, crochet and hang out with friends. I also have a passion for travelling and photography. -
REVEKA
Coventry University
Forensic Investigations BSc (Hons)
Hello! My name is Reveka, I am a third-year student studying Forensic Investigations, originally from Greece and Albania.I moved to the UK to pursue my academic and career goals, my passion for becoming a bloodstain analyst led me to choose the degree I am currently taking. I am fluent in both Greek and English, and I am currently learning German.Feel free to message me, I look forward to answering any questions! -
Julia
Brunel University London
Psychology
Hello everyone :) My name is Julia and I came to Brunel University from Poland. After mandatory studies I took 3-year break from academic education, while I was traveling and working abroad (among others as a windsurfing instructor). Currently I'm living on campus with a plan to live off campus next year. In the future I'd like to pursue my career in the field of Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology or Neuropsychology. I've always been interested in people's behaviour and how the human brain works, so these fields are a perfect combination for me. -
Harri
University of Suffolk
BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology
I am really hoping one day to be some sort of therapist but until then I spend as much of my time being outdoors and in nature and trying to love my life! -
Ellie
University of Lincoln
Education and Psychology - BSc (Hons)
Hi, I am Ellie, a second-year student studying Education and Psychology. I have a passion for education and aspire to be an educational consultant. When I was studying for my A Levels I was adamant that I didn't want to leave home, however, moving to uni has been the best decision I have ever made! Life at university has helped me explore new passions and enabled me to continue with old hobbies such as dance! As an education and psychology student, I can explore new ideas in psychology and put them into practice in education, allowing for an advanced style of thinking. Since being at uni I have immersed myself in my studies and life as a student and since becoming a course rep, student ambassador and online tutor as well as being in the dance society. If you have any questions regarding the course or life at University please feel free to drop me a message and I will offer my friendly support and knowledge. One of the best ways to get an understanding of University is through the students who experience it firsthand! Ellie x
Studying psychology at the University of South Wales
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Example module "Developmental psychology is fascinating to me – it’s very interesting to see how human behaviour and development changes from in utero right up until death." Second year psychology student, Goldsmiths, University of London Example project "I investigated the impact of social media on self-esteem and body image, analysing survey data and conducting interviews. This project challenged me to think critically and apply research methods to a real-world issue." First year psychology student, University of Sussex
At least one from chemistry, physics, biology or maths
Sociology
Geography
Anthropology
Economics
Politics
Philosophy
History
Literature
Hard skills you'll develop
- Enhanced research skills
- Data and statistical analysis
- Application of therapeutic techniques
- Evaluation of cognitive functions
Soft skills you'll develop
- Attentive and active listening
- Empathising with others
- Ability to adapt to new information
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Average salary £37,229 Up to £82,517 Available jobs 30,077 vacancies in the past year 3.39% growth over next eight years
What is a… behavioural design consultant?
Imagine stepping into the world of behavioural design where you’d collaborate with businesses and organisations to create user-friendly products, services, and environments. Using psychological principles, you enhance user experiences, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to the design of spaces that positively influence behaviour. From designing intuitive mobile apps to crafting employee engagement programs, understanding psychology is a key asset in creating solutions that seamlessly align with the way people think and interact.
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.
Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study psychology at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from psychology applicants.
A levels BBB Scottish Highers AABB Vocational BTEC DDM Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative
Check out our industry guide to help you decide if a care services apprenticeship might be the right choice for you.
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The Psychology Podcast
Listen to inspiring scientists, thinkers, and other self-actualised individuals who will give you a greater understanding of yourself, others, and the world we live in.
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TED talks – The psychology of your future self
Hear research on a phenomenon where we somehow imagine that the person we are right now is the person we'll be for the rest of time. Hint: that's not the case.
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Keep up-to-date
You'll find all the latest news and research onthe UK’s voice and home of psychology, the British Psychological Society website.
Skills, experiences and interests to mention
- Have you got a curious mind?
- Are you fascinated by the way people think and behave?
- Have you studied psychology before or maybe a subject that’s closely linked?
- Do you consider yourself self-motivated? Demonstrating your ability to study independently is a great skill for psychology students.
- How are your communication skills and are you good at collaborating with different stakeholders?
- How passionate are you? Find a way to talk about why you love psychology and the route you’d like explore from a career perspective.
We asked admissions tutors to share their dos and don’ts for writing a strong and engaging psychology personal statement. Here's what they told us.
Explore courses
Psychology
University of Salford
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Salford · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/120
Psychology
University of Brighton
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Brighton · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 104/120
Psychology
Liverpool Hope University
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Liverpool · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/120
Psychology
Cardiff Metropolitan University
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Cardiff · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 96/112
Psychology
University of Glasgow
MA (Hons) · 4 Years · Full-time · Glasgow · 2024-2025
Tariff points: N/A
Psychology
University of Plymouth
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Plymouth · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/128
Psychology
University of Aberdeen
MA (Hons) · 4 Years · Full-time · Aberdeen · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/152
Psychology
Edge Hill University
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Ormskirk · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/128
Psychology
University of Bradford
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Bradford · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/112
Psychology
University of East London
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Distance learning (full-time) · Stratford · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/112
Psychology
University of Huddersfield
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Huddersfield · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/120
Psychology
Northumbria University, Newcastle
BSc (Hons) · 4 Years · Full-time with time abroad · Newcastle upon Tyne · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/120
Psychology
Royal Holloway, University of London
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Egham · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 136/168
Psychology
Liverpool John Moores University
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Liverpool · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/128
Psychology
Staffordshire University
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Stoke-on-Trent · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/120
Psychology
Brunel University London
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Uxbridge · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 120/144
Psychology
University of Warwick
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · Coventry · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 144/144
Psychology
Bournemouth University
BSc (Hons) · 4 Years · Sandwich · Poole · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/128
Psychology
University of Buckingham
BSc (Hons) · 2 Years · Full-time · Buckingham · 2025-2026
Tariff points: 112/128
Psychology
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
BSc (Hons) · 4 Years · Full-time · Edinburgh · 2024-2025
Tariff points: 112/123
