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The BA (Hons) Psychology and Education Studies at the University of Derby is a three-year joint honours degree that explores how people think, learn, and develop within different educational and social contexts. It’s perfect for students who are curious about human behaviour, motivation, and learning, and who want to understand how psychological insights can shape education and lifelong development.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll gain a solid foundation in both psychology and education. You’ll explore modules like Introduction to Psychology, Social and Developmental Psychology, Introduction to Education Studies, and Learning and Society. This year helps you understand the basics of human cognition, behaviour, and the social structures that influence education.
Year 2:
The second year allows you to apply theory to practice. You’ll study modules such as Research Methods in Psychology, Cognitive and Biological Psychology, Inclusion and Diversity in Education, and Education Policy and Practice. You’ll also explore how psychological theories can support inclusive learning and address challenges like mental health and motivation in educational settings.
Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to specialise through advanced modules and an independent research project. Topics may include Applied Psychology, Development Across the Lifespan, and Contemporary Issues in Education. You’ll learn to analyse and apply psychological and educational concepts to real-world issues, preparing you for professional or postgraduate pathways.
Focus areas:
Psychological development · Learning and motivation · Education policy and systems · Inclusion and diversity · Research and data analysis · Lifespan development
Learning outcomes:
Graduates will understand how psychological principles influence learning and behaviour, apply evidence-based strategies to support education, design and conduct research, and evaluate policies and practices that promote inclusion and well-being.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
If psychology is chosen as the major subject, the course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). This qualification is an excellent foundation for careers in psychology, education, counselling, youth work, or progression to teacher training and postgraduate study.
Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Derby is recognised for its strong teaching quality and employability in education and psychology-related fields. Graduates benefit from a dual skill set that opens doors to careers in schools, research, community services, and mental health support.
The BA (Hons) Psychology and Education Studies at the University of Derby offers a powerful combination of two complementary disciplines — exploring how people learn, think, and behave, while gaining a deep understanding of educational theory and practice. This course prepares you for careers in teaching, educational psychology, youth work, or any role that focuses on human development and learning.
From the start, you’ll be immersed in practical and applied learning that bridges psychology and education. You’ll not only study the science of the mind but also learn how these insights can improve classroom environments, learning outcomes, and wellbeing in educational settings.
Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into the course:
Applied psychological research: Learn to design, conduct, and analyse psychological studies using real data and ethical research methods — often linked to education-based topics.
Education-focused projects: Explore how psychological principles such as motivation, memory, and cognitive development apply directly to teaching and learning.
Lab-based learning: Make use of the University’s specialist psychology laboratories, including observation rooms, eye-tracking technology, and software for experimental research.
Work-related learning opportunities: Engage with schools, colleges, and community organisations to see how educational and psychological theories work in practice.
Independent research project: In your final year, you’ll complete a dissertation on a topic that connects psychology and education — such as inclusion, child development, or learning strategies.
Collaboration and teamwork: Many modules involve group work, where you’ll analyse case studies, develop educational materials, or present psychological findings collaboratively.
Expert guest speakers: Hear from practising psychologists, teachers, and education specialists who bring real-world perspectives into your learning.
Access to professional resources: Benefit from psychology and education software tools, digital research databases, and Derby’s well-equipped library and collaborative learning spaces.
Why this course stands out
Blends scientific and educational knowledge, offering a strong foundation for careers in teaching, educational psychology, or child development.
Offers hands-on research experience through laboratory work and project-based learning.
Provides transferable skills in research, communication, data analysis, and critical thinking.
Encourages real-world learning through placements, applied projects, and engagement with educational settings.
Taught by experienced academic teams who are active researchers in both psychology and education.
The BA (Hons) Psychology and Education Studies at the University of Derby combines two fascinating fields — understanding human behaviour and exploring how people learn. This joint honours degree gives you a deep insight into the psychological processes behind learning and teaching, while also examining educational systems, policies, and social influences on education.
Course Overview:
Students study topics such as developmental psychology, cognitive processes, inclusive education, and educational theory. The programme encourages critical thinking about how psychology shapes learning environments and how education can support diverse learners. It blends academic theory with practical learning opportunities, preparing you for a variety of roles in both psychology and education-related fields.
Key Learning Areas:
Human development and learning behaviour
Educational systems, inclusion, and diversity
Social, emotional, and cognitive psychology
Research methods and data analysis
Educational policy and practice
Skills You’ll Develop:
Analytical and research skills
Communication and teamwork
Problem-solving in educational and behavioural contexts
Understanding of human development and learning theories
Career Opportunities:
Graduates can pursue roles such as:
Educational psychologist assistant
Learning support or inclusion officer
Youth development worker
Educational researcher
Child and family support practitioner
The course also provides a strong foundation for further study, such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or a Master’s in Educational Psychology, Child Development, or Counselling.
Why Choose This Course:
The University of Derby provides strong academic support, dedicated tutors, and opportunities for placements in educational or community settings. Students graduate with a versatile skill set applicable across education, psychology, and social development sectors.
CBSE (India – National Boards): Applicants must complete Standard 12 with a minimum of 65% overall, including English as a required subject for entry consideration.American Curriculum (GPA/AP/SAT/ACT): Students need a High School Diploma or GED with a GPA of 3.0, plus either SAT 1600 (old) / 1060 (new), ACT 23, or three AP exams (score 3+).IB (International Baccalaureate): IB Diploma holders must achieve a minimum total of 28 points to meet undergraduate entry standards.A-Level: A-Level applicants need grades BBC, equivalent to 112 UCAS points, depending on the chosen program.GCSE: Applicants should have GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above, or an equivalent recognized qualification.IELTS: An overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5, is required for English proficiency.TOEFL: A TOEFL iBT score of 79 is accepted as an alternative to IELTS for English language qualification.UCAS: A total of 112 UCAS tariff points is typically required for undergraduate program entry.Primary School TeacherSecondary School TeacherSpecial Educational Needs (SEN) TeacherEducational ConsultantTeaching AssistantEducation Policy AdvisorCurriculum DeveloperEducation CoordinatorEarly Years EducatorLearning Support SpecialistEducation OfficerTutorEducational Psychologist AssistantYouth WorkerTraining and Development OfficerAcademic AdvisorEducation Program ManagerLiteracy SpecialistEducation ResearcherCareers Advisor
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University of Derby
