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The BSc (Hons) in Psychology at the University of St Andrews provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the diverse areas of psychology, including perception, cognition, motivation, and behaviour. The programme is designed to ground students in both the theoretical frameworks and the latest developments in contemporary psychological science. From the outset, there is a strong focus on practical learning, with students engaging in hands-on sessions and developing research skills early in the course.
At St Andrews, psychology can be pursued either as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or a Master of Arts (MA), with both pathways offering the same core subject content. The BSc option is particularly suitable for students with a strong science background or those wishing to study psychology alongside other science disciplines.
Importantly, the degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Upon successful completion of the required modules with appropriate grades, graduates earn the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the BPS. This is a critical first step for those planning to pursue professional training in psychology-related fields, such as clinical, educational, or occupational psychology.
Overall, the programme not only delivers academic knowledge but also equips students with the practical and analytical skills needed to conduct psychological research and apply it to real-world challenges. With a blend of scientific rigor, theoretical depth, and professional recognition, psychology at St Andrews offers a strong foundation for both further study and a variety of careers in psychology and beyond.
1. Practical Laboratory Classes
Start from Year 1 and run through to final year.
Emphasize data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific report writing.
Hands-on experience in areas like memory, attention, and perception.
2. Research Participation Scheme
Engage in ongoing psychology experiments run by faculty and postgraduates.
Gain insight into research ethics and experimental procedure.
3. Final-Year Dissertation Project
Independent research project supervised by a faculty member.
Opportunity to design experiments, collect and analyse data.
Covers advanced topics in neuroscience, cognition, development, etc.
4. Research Assistant Opportunities
Apply to assist faculty members on funded research projects.
Gain experience in professional academic research environments.
5. Use of Research Facilities
Access to:
EEG (brain activity recording),
Eye-tracking systems,
Behavioural testing labs.
Learn to work with scientific equipment and software like SPSS or R.
6. Summer Research Internships
Competitive internships available within the School of Psychology & Neuroscience.
Involve original research, literature reviews, and presentations.
7. Interdisciplinary Projects
Collaborate with areas like neuroscience, computer science, or philosophy.
Encouraged through optional module choices and research themes.
8. Conference Presentations & Poster Sessions
Opportunities to present dissertation findings in research fairs and conferences.
1. British Psychological Society (BPS) Accreditation
Graduates gain eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).
A necessary step for professional training in psychology (e.g. clinical, educational).
2. Postgraduate Study
Many graduates continue to:
MSc/PhD in Psychology, Neuroscience, Mental Health, or Counselling.
Conversion courses for those diversifying into other fields.
3. Professional Psychology Training
Eligible to apply for further training in:
Clinical Psychology
Educational Psychology
Occupational Psychology
Forensic Psychology
4. Careers in Research
Opportunities in academic, governmental, or private-sector psychological research.
Many join research labs or work as research assistants post-graduation.
5. Health and Social Care Roles
Entry into mental health services, counselling, therapy assistance, and youth work.
Some roles may require additional qualifications or certifications.
6. Graduate Employment in Other Sectors
Psychology graduates are valued in:
Human Resources
Marketing & Advertising
Data Analysis & User Experience (UX)
Policy Making & Public Sector
7. Teaching and Education
With a teaching qualification, graduates can pursue careers in school or special education.
8. International Opportunities
The University’s global reputation supports graduates in applying to international postgraduate programs and jobs.
9. Skills Developed
Strong critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication – highly transferable.
10. Alumni Network and Career Support
Access to St Andrews Careers Centre, networking events, and alumni mentoring.
Oldest University in Scotland (Founded 1413) – Rich academic heritage and global reputation enhances graduate recognition.World-Ranked for Psychology & Research Excellence – Consistently ranked in global top tiers for teaching and research in psychology.Research-Intensive Honours Dissertation – Final year project under guidance of internationally active researchers.Excellent Student Satisfaction and Alumni Prestige – Ranked highly for teaching quality and employs a distinguished alumni network.Flexible Interdisciplinary Learning – Combine psychology with subjects like philosophy, neuroscience, or international relations.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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University of St Andrews
