The University of Sussex is ranked 11th in the UK for Psychology (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025) and 18th in the UK for Psychology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). It also ranks in the Top 20 in the UK for research in Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, according to the REF 2021 (Times Higher Education).
As one of the UK’s largest psychology schools, Sussex offers students the opportunity to learn from world-leading academics who are experts in their respective fields. The university provides flexibility in its courses, allowing students to tailor their degree by choosing from a wide range of modules. Whether your interests lie in clinical psychology, child development, cognitive, forensic, health, social and applied psychology, or neuroscience, Sussex has the expertise to support your learning.
Students also have the opportunity to take electives from other disciplines, such as philosophy, law, or modern languages, broadening their perspective and personalising their degree. Sussex’s advanced research facilities are among the best in the country, with specialized labs such as a child development research suite and a human psychophysiology laboratory.
The Psychology degree at Sussex is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), meeting the requirements for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). The university strives to deliver the courses, services, and facilities as outlined, and will notify students promptly if any material changes are required.
Research Facilities: Sussex offers some of the most advanced research facilities in the country, including specialized labs for child development research and human psychophysiology, providing students with hands-on experience in psychological research.
Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects throughout their degree, with opportunities to work closely with academic staff on ongoing research, allowing them to develop critical research and analytical skills.
Lab-based Learning: The university provides access to cutting-edge equipment for studying human behaviour and brain processes, such as psychophysiology labs, enabling students to gain practical, hands-on experience with research tools and methodologies.
Collaborative Research Projects: Students can collaborate with faculty on research in diverse areas of psychology, including clinical, cognitive, developmental, forensic, and social psychology, giving them exposure to real-world challenges and research applications.
Internships: Sussex offers opportunities to gain practical work experience through internships in various sectors, including healthcare, education, criminal justice, and business, enhancing employability and providing insight into potential career paths.
Field Work: Opportunities for fieldwork and placements in clinical or community settings, allowing students to apply psychological theories to real-life situations and gain valuable practical experience.
Dissertation and Final-year Projects: In the final year, students undertake an independent research dissertation, which often leads to research publications or contributions to international journals, enhancing academic and professional profiles.
Employability Program: Sussex provides a dedicated employability service that includes career workshops, networking events, and online resources, ensuring students are well-prepared for the job market.
Collaboration with External Partners: The university has strong ties with industry and research organizations, offering students the chance to work on collaborative projects that bridge the gap between academia and industry.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars are held to develop specific skills such as data analysis, report writing, and presenting research findings, all of which are crucial for a successful career in psychology.
Postgraduate Study: Sussex offers a strong foundation for postgraduate study. Graduates can pursue MSc or PhD programmes in various areas, including clinical, forensic, occupational, or health psychology, and neuroscience.
BPS Accreditation: The Psychology programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), granting students the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). This is a critical step for those pursuing a career as a professional psychologist.
Diverse Career Pathways: Graduates can enter numerous fields such as clinical psychology, research, education, forensic psychology, human resources, and marketing. Psychology skills are highly transferable, opening doors to careers in diverse sectors.
Clinical Psychology Careers: With the necessary GBC status, students can pursue further training to become licensed clinical psychologists, working in hospitals, clinics, or private practice to support mental health treatment.
Forensic Psychology Roles: The program prepares students for careers in forensic psychology, where they can work in criminal justice systems, including prisons, probation services, or law enforcement agencies.
Research Opportunities: Sussex graduates are well-equipped for research roles in academic institutions, government bodies, or private industry. Many students go on to become research assistants or research associates.
Human Resources and Organisational Psychology: With a solid foundation in human behaviour, students are prepared for careers in human resources, recruitment, and organizational consultancy, focusing on improving employee well-being and productivity.
Healthcare & Mental Health Support: Graduates may work in healthcare systems, supporting mental health services, rehabilitation, or health promotion, contributing to well-being and public health policy.
Marketing and Consumer Psychology: Graduates can pursue careers in marketing, advertising, or consumer research, applying psychological principles to consumer behaviour and market trends.
Social & Educational Psychology: The degree offers pathways into social and educational psychology, where graduates can work with schools or community organizations to improve learning, child development, and social inclusion.
International Career Opportunities: Due to its international recognition, the Sussex Psychology programme offers global career prospects, allowing students to work in psychology-related roles worldwide.
Professional Development: Sussex’s strong employability programme, which includes career talks, internships, and networking events, ensures students are well-prepared for the job market after graduation.
Entrepreneurship in Psychology: Students with entrepreneurial aspirations can apply psychological principles to start their own practices or consultancy firms, providing services in areas like mental health, coaching, or organizational development.
Teaching and Education: Graduates can pursue teaching roles, specializing in psychology or other related subjects, and work in schools, colleges, or universities.
Global Research & Policy Careers: Students can contribute to global research efforts or policy development in psychology-related fields, influencing public health strategies, criminal justice reform, or educational approaches.
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