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Psychology is the scientific exploration of mental processes, where you'll study the structure of the brain alongside the perceptions, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors of individuals. Throughout the program, you will develop a deep understanding of human psychology, with a focus on both theoretical and applied aspects.
In the first and third years, you'll have the flexibility to choose optional modules, some of which can be outside the realm of psychology, allowing you to explore a wide range of topics that pique your interest. Sheffield offers a broad selection of modules across various psychology subfields, such as forensic psychology, clinical psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neuroimaging, and neuropsychology, as well as social, educational, and developmental psychology.
As part of the program, you will also engage in a research project in your final year, exploring diverse topics such as autism, anxiety, mental health, neurodiversity, spatial cognition, addictions, brain imaging, food and eating, and post-traumatic growth, to name a few. This hands-on research experience will allow you to contribute to groundbreaking work in the field.
Additionally, an optional Computer Science pathway allows you to gain skills in both psychology and computer science, exploring areas like human-computer interaction and programming. This interdisciplinary approach opens up exciting career opportunities in a rapidly growing industry.
You will also have the opportunity to study abroad, spending a semester or year at one of Sheffield’s partner universities, enhancing both your academic experience and global perspective.
Please note that course content may change, so it’s important to check for updates before applying.
Research Projects
In your final year, you'll undertake an independent research project, which allows you to explore a topic of personal interest. You'll work closely with faculty members, gaining hands-on experience in research design, data collection, and analysis. Previous research topics have included autism, anxiety, neurodiversity, and brain imaging. This project gives you the opportunity to contribute to significant psychological research and enhance your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Internships and Placements
The university encourages students to gain practical experience through internships and placements. These opportunities allow you to work in psychology-related fields, such as mental health services, schools, or research labs, providing a deeper understanding of how psychology is applied in various settings. Internships help you develop professional skills and expand your network, which is crucial for your career after graduation.
Optional Placement Year in Computer Science
For students interested in the intersection of psychology and technology, the optional placement year in Computer Science offers valuable interdisciplinary experience. You’ll study topics like human-computer interaction and work on projects that combine psychology with computer science, preparing you for roles in the tech industry.
Study Abroad
The university also offers the chance to study abroad at one of its partner universities worldwide. This experience allows you to gain global perspectives on psychology and build international connections that can enhance your academic and career prospects.
Postgraduate Study
You can pursue advanced qualifications in clinical psychology, health psychology, educational psychology, or research, leading to chartered status with the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Professional Careers
Graduates often go on to work in mental health services, education, research, or the corporate sector, using their knowledge in roles such as clinical psychologist, human resources consultant, or forensic psychologist.
Interdisciplinary Pathways
The optional computer science pathway provides an opportunity to develop expertise in human-computer interaction and data science, opening doors to careers in tech and the rapidly growing field of computational psychology.
Global Opportunities
With the chance to study abroad and build an international network, psychology graduates from Sheffield are well-prepared to pursue careers globally.
BPS Accreditation A BPS-accredited degree gives you the foundation to pursue a career as a chartered psychologist in clinical, health, educational, or occupational psychology.Postgraduate Opportunities Further study options include MScs in clinical, forensic, or research psychology, offering specialization and advanced training in your field of interest.Research Careers With a strong research project component, you’ll be equipped to continue in academic or applied research, contributing to new psychological findings.Forensic Psychology If you're interested in the criminal justice system, Sheffield provides opportunities to specialize in forensic psychology, working with law enforcement or in rehabilitation settings.Tech & Data Science Careers The optional computer science pathway opens doors to careers in human-computer interaction, data science, and tech industries.Graduate Employment Support The University of Sheffield offers excellent career services, helping you secure internships, placements, and full-time roles through industry connections and networking opportunities.Clinical PsychologistForensic PsychologistOccupational PsychologistEducational PsychologistCounseling PsychologistHealth PsychologistResearch Assistant / ResearcherHuman Resources (HR) or Recruitment ConsultantMarketing or Consumer PsychologistNeuropsychologistSocial WorkerPsychiatric Technician / Mental Health Support WorkerLife Coach or TherapistCriminal Justice or Law Enforcement RolesSports Psychologist
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