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On this course you will:

• develop invaluable skills for critical and scientific thinking;
• engage in continuous research activities throughout your degree with opportunities for working within staff-led research groups;
• explore six core areas of psychology: cognitive, biological, historical, developmental, social, and individual differences;
• gain extensive practical training in research methods in all years of study, with a focus on both qualitative and quantitative methods;
• learn to apply scientific methods and evidence to understand psychological experiences;
• acquire essential skills for scientific thinking, writing, and critique, providing a solid foundation for a career in the field; and
• enhance your broad psychological knowledge by specialising in your choice of dissertation topic and elective modules including Memory, Peer Relations and Sport and Exercise Psychology*.

*Module choices subject to change

Structure

All students enrol onto the honours degree, but you can choose to exit with an ordinary degree after three years.

ÌýTeaching, learning and assessment

• Engage in diverse learning formats, including lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and laboratories.
• Take responsibility for your continuous learning through self-study outside of scheduled sessions.
• Demonstrate your understanding through various assessment methods, such as essays, case studies, group projects, presentations, and written exams.

Exchange opportunities

Studying abroad through our exchange programme can be one of the most exciting and rewarding challenges for a student to experience. The opportunity to travel and live in another country, learn different customs and traditions, meet new people and future career draws many students into the exchange programme. In Year Two you have the opportunity (subject to availability) to study for one semester at a university overseas. Please visit theÌýExchanges and Study AbroadÌýpages for more information.

Teaching staff, class sizes and timetables

You can read more about the teaching staff on this course at the bottom of this page. Please note that teaching staff is subject to change.

For more information, please also visit ‘How we teach and how you’ll learn’.

Year One

You will:

• acquire a comprehensive understanding of classic and contemporary theories and research in psychology, exploring the historical dimensions of the discipline; and
• choose from optional classes in related disciplines such as Sociology, Biology, or Education, allowing you to broaden your knowledge base and tailor your academic experience to your interests.

Modules

• Introduction to Psychology 1
• Foundations of Psychology: Core Concepts and Practices
• Introduction to Psychology 2
• plus 60 credits from another topic. Optional modules may be in sociology, biological sciences or education. Please note that optional modules may vary year on year and may not always be available.Ìý

Year Two

You will:

• progress towards the evaluation of core domains such as social, developmental, individual, cognitive, and biological psychology using diverse teaching methods, including group work, skills practice, and problem-based learning;
• actively participate in and reflect on current research conducted within the Division of Psychology, Sociology, and Education at Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ, providing you with an immersive and up-to-date understanding of ongoing advancements in the field;
• continue to study your additional chosen subject for the first semester of Year Two; and
• have the opportunity (where available) to study for one semester at a university overseas.ÌýLearn more about exchanges and studying abroad.

Modules

• Social and Developmental Psychology
• Exploring Research in Psychology
• Biological and Cognitive Psychology
• Individual Differences, Wellbeing and Ethical Practice
• Enquiries in Psychology
• plus 20 credits from another topic. Optional modules may be in sociology, biological sciences or education. Please note that optional modules may vary year on year and may not always be available.Ìý

Year Three

You will:

• engage in continuous critical reflection on the historical foundations of psychology, fostering an in-depth understanding and critical awareness within the core areas;
• further hone your research skills through hands-on experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies; and
• develop expertise in the critical appraisal of research ethics, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the ethical considerations inherent in psychological research.

Modules

• Social Psychology and Social Justice
• Psychobiology in Context
• Historical Perspectives in Psychology
• The Skilled Researcher
• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology

Year Four

You will:

• tailor your academic journey by selecting modules aligned with your interests, emphasizing real-world applications of psychology;
• participate in modules like "Psychology for Contemporary Issues," where you'll explore the practical use of psychological knowledge in addressing current societal problems; and
• undertake a research-based dissertation, allowing you to delve deeply into a specific area and contribute meaningfully to the field.

Modules

• Psychology for Contemporary Issues (core module for all students)
• 40 credits from dissertation research
• plus three modules from a range of options.
  Provision varies on a year-by-year basis but examples include: Memory: Origins and Structures/Cognitive Science of Belief
  Evolutionary Psychology in the Modern World/Psychology of Pain/ Peer Relations in Childhood and Adolescence/ Sport and Exercise PsychologyÌý Community Psychology and Engagement

NB The modules listed here are correct at time of posting (Feb 2024) but may differ slightly to those offered in 2025. Please check back here for any updates.

Psychologists study human behaviour and mental processes in various specialties, from diagnosing mental health issues and guiding individuals to improving workplace dynamics and contributing to research. They work in diverse settings, including private practices, schools, hospitals, and research institutions, contributing to the understanding and enhancement of mental health and behaviour.Ìý Further study will be required in order to specialise in any particular field however this course will give you the basis to embark on the career of your choosing.

Entry requirements

Scottish Higher: Standard - BBBCC, Minimum - BCCCC

A Level: BBC

Irish Leaving Certificate: H3 H3 H3 H3 H3

International Baccalaureate: 30 points

International: IELTS of 6.0 with no element lower than 5.5

Required subjects: Maths and English at Nat 5/GCSE at grade C/4 or above. We can also accept National 5 Application of Maths or Lifeskills at the same grade.

Am I a Widening Access student?: We apply the minimum entry criteria to applicants who meet one or more contextual factor. To see if this would apply to you, please refer to the access and application page.

Mature/Access: We welcome applications from mature students with relevant qualifications and/or experience. Visit our College Leavers and Mature Students Advice page for more information. 

Direct Entry:

Year Two

• HNC in Social Sciences with A in the graded unit or HND Social Sciences with CB in the graded units may be considered

For details of related HNC and HND courses, visit our College Leavers and Mature Students Advice page. 

Other requirements

A satisfactory criminal records check from the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme may be required if you chose to engage in work experience/community engagement opportunities.

Other costs

• The cost of the PVG check is the responsibility of the student. For more information on this, visit the 

Disability/health conditions

If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or learning disability, it should not stand in the way of your studying at Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ. However, if you are not sure whether your disability might be a barrier in your studies or in relation to the professional standards, please contact the disability service who will be able to have a conversation with you about reasonable adjustments and supports available to you.

How to apply

Application for this course should be made through . More application information is available in the 'Start your Application' box at the top right of this page.

Terms and Conditions

• The delivery of this course is subject to the terms and conditions set out in our 2025/26 Entry Terms and Conditions (Undergraduate).
• The course information on this page is correct at the time of posting (Feb 2024) but may differ slightly for 2025 entry. Please check back here for updates.

You can study this course as an associate student, completing the first year at Newbattle Abbey College.Ìý

Read more about the Associate Student Scheme.Ìý

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