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Program Overview:
This four-year interdisciplinary degree combines the scientific study of psychology with the critical perspectives of sociology. Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), the course explores how individual behaviour is shaped by psychological processes and broader social forces. It is ideal for students interested in understanding both the inner workings of the human mind and the structures of society.
Curriculum Structure
Year One
You’ll study foundational topics in both disciplines, including Introduction to Psychology, Foundations of Sociology, Research and Analysis in Social Sciences, and Being Human. These modules set the groundwork for understanding individual cognition alongside societal dynamics.
Year Two
You’ll explore Cognitive and Biological Psychology, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and sociological themes like Social Inequality and Globalisation. Research skills are further developed through dedicated methods modules.
Year Three
At this stage, students begin to specialise through optional modules in areas such as Health Psychology, Gender and Society, Mental Health, and Social Policy. You'll also conduct more advanced research and analytical work, applying theoretical frameworks to current social issues.
Year Four
The final year includes a supervised Honours Research Project, alongside advanced electives like Critical Social Psychology, Criminology, or Contemporary Social Theory. The final year encourages integration of psychology and sociology through independent inquiry and applied analysis.
Placement or Study Abroad Option:
There are opportunities for study abroad or work-based learning, depending on availability and eligibility, particularly between Years Two and Three. These experiences enhance global awareness and employability.
Focus Areas:
Psychological development, identity and society, inequality and justice, mental health, sociological theory, and research methods.
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will develop critical insight into human behaviour within a social context, strong research capabilities, interdisciplinary thinking, and the ability to apply theory to contemporary challenges.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), making graduates eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) if they achieve at least a 2:2 and pass the required psychology components.
Reputation & Facilities:
Edinburgh Napier offers strong student support, excellent teaching in small class sizes, and dedicated facilities including labs, software for psychological testing, and access to sociology-focused digital resources. Located in Scotland’s capital, students benefit from proximity to governmental, social, and academic institutions.
This interdisciplinary degree explores individual behaviour through psychology and the wider social structures influencing it through sociology. The programme is accredited by the BPS, preparing students for both academic and applied pathways.
Hands-on learning opportunities include:
Graduates gain a well-rounded understanding of people and society—ideal for careers in public service, education, research, human resources, and social support.
Typical roles include:
Community Outreach Worker, Policy Analyst, Human Resources Assistant, Research Officer, Assistant Psychologist
Career and academic support includes:
Further Academic Progression
Many students pursue postgraduate studies in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Counselling, or Education—particularly MSc Psychology, MSc Social Policy, or PGCE for teaching qualification.
A Level CCC including English or Literary subject. GCSE Grade C/4 in MathsIB: 27 points overall with three HL subjects at grades 6, 5, 4 including English at minimum grade 5; Grade 4 in SL Maths (or grade 5 in SL Maths Studies).IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5TOEFL - 80 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.Academic transcripts & certificates — These confirm your achieved or predicted qualificationsPersonal statement — A focused, reflective statement explaining why you wish to study psychology and sociology, along with your academic or life experiences that have prepared you for the courseReference — If you meet entry requirements via qualifications, a reference might not always be mandatory. If you don’t meet them or have been out of education, you’ll need either an academic reference or a professional/employment referenceCV or résumé — While not always mandatory, including a CV that outlines relevant work, volunteering, or academic experience can be beneficial, especially if your qualifications are non‑traditional or contextualCareers in social research or analytics (egsocial researcherdata analyst)Human resources or organisational development rolesPolicy advisor in social policyhealth or educationCommunity development worker or outreach coordinatorMental health support worker or assistant psychologistTeaching assistant or education support rolesMarketing or communications specialistPublic service or local government officerSupport worker in social care or welfare servicesAcademic or administrative assistant in psychology/sociology fields
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Edinburgh Napier University
