Course overview

What is psychology?

Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour. From biological influences and social pressures to environmental factors that affect how people think, act, and feel - psychology underpins all that we are and everything we do. The skills you will develop on this degree will not only equip you with subject-specific knowledge but will provide you with a variety of transferable scientific and humanities based skills that can be used in a wide range of sectors.

Course structure

Our Psychology BSc will equip you with a well-rounded education. In addition to studying the principal areas specified by the British Psychological Society (BPS) curriculum, you will have the opportunity to tailor your degree to reflect your career aspirations and interests.

As no prior knowledge of psychology is required, during years one and two we will provide you with fundamental scientific skills in research design, statistics, qualitative and survey methods. This will enable you to conduct your own research and critically analyse that of others. In your final year you will work with one of our expert academics to complete a research project from a menu of topics.

Principal areas of study

Biological psychology

Explore the structure and function of the brain, neuronal impulses and how we make sense of sensory stimuli.

Cognitive psychology

Examine topics including attention, perception, learning, memory, thinking, problem solving, decision making, metacognition, language, consciousness and cognitive neuropsychology.

Developmental psychology

Study the typical and atypical development across the lifespan including childhood, adolescence and ageing, attachment, social relations, cognitive and language development and cultural development.

Individual differences

Question what it is to be human and the impact this has on our understanding of everyday experiences.

Social psychology

Explore topics including social cognition, attribution, attitudes, group processes and intergroup relations, culture, close relationships, social constructionism, self and identity, and leadership.

Conceptual and historical issues

Discover how culture plays a role in psychology, how psychology influences culture, and how a capacity for culture arose in the first place.

Research methods

Learn the fundamentals for conducting your own qualitative and quantitative research and also thinking critically about others' published research too.

Final year project

Conduct a piece of research on a topic of your choice under supervision incorporating data collection and analysis.

Examples of student projects from previous years include:

• Contagious laughter in a Virtual Reality context
• The influence of loneliness and social inclusion on mental wellbeing and academic confidence on undergraduate students
• The effects of eating attitudes and impulsivity on cognitive flexibility

International year

In between years two and three of your studies you can choose to spend a year studying abroad. This exciting opportunity enables you to understand your field from different cultural perspectives and to establish international networks. It also shows you have the personal attributes to embrace new experiences which can enhance your employability. We offer exchange opportunities with a wide variety of partner institutions.

Student support

We pride ourselves on our multi-layered student support structure. You will have access to an academic mentor, academic support team and disability officer. A careers tutor and member of Keele’s Student Experience and Support team will also be dedicated to the School of Psychology if you need any additional support, or someone to talk to, whether about your degree programme or life outside of your studies.

In addition to the School's support offering, Keele Student Services is also your one-stop-shop for information and support. The team can offer guidance on a range of areas including;

• Disability and dyslexia
• Money advice and guidance
• Residence life
• Your welfare and wellbeing

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to psychology is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies. This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles.

Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion

As a university and as a School, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. This means we aim to create a diverse and inclusive culture in which you can thrive. Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) agenda is embedded throughout our curriculum, and the School of Psychology are proud to have been recognised for our activities in this area by holding The Athena SWAN bronze award.