University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme introduces core areas of psychology alongside applied behavioural science topics, emphasising evidence-based approaches and practical skill development. Typical modules cover:

• Foundations of Psychology: introduction to major psychological theories, history of the discipline and basic cognitive, developmental and social perspectives.
• Research Methods and Statistics: quantitative and qualitative research design, data collection, basic statistical analysis and critical appraisal of scientific literature.
• Developmental and Lifespan Psychology: child, adolescent and adult development, attachment, and family dynamics.
• Behavioural Principles and Applied Behaviour Analysis: learning theory, behaviour assessment, intervention planning and monitoring in applied settings.
• Counselling and Communication Skills: interviewing, active listening, motivational approaches and working ethically with clients.
• Mental Health and Psychopathology: common mental health conditions, diagnostic frameworks, risk assessment and referral pathways.
• Practice and Placement: supervised practical placements or project-based work in community, educational or clinical partner organisations to develop hands-on experience.
• Professional Issues and Ethics: legislation, professional standards, cultural competence and multidisciplinary working in the Maltese context.

Programme structure typically balances taught lectures and seminars with laboratory work, tutorials, assessed projects and workplace placements to ensure applied competence alongside theoretical understanding.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification with passes in relevant subjects. Typical academic requirements include strong performance in English and a scientific or social-science subject; specific grade thresholds are set by the University of Malta admissions office and may vary by year.

Mature applicants with relevant work experience in social care, education or community services are considered through alternative entry routes, and all applicants may be asked to demonstrate motivation and suitability for work with vulnerable groups. Applicants whose first language is not English may need to provide evidence of English language proficiency in line with university regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a solid grounding for a range of entry-level roles in health and social care, education and community services. Common career paths include:

• behavioural support worker or therapist in services for children, adults with developmental disabilities or mental health needs
• community support and outreach worker for non-governmental organisations or public services
• assistant roles in educational psychology, special education or school support teams
• research assistant positions in university or applied research centres
• pathway to postgraduate professional training in clinical psychology, counselling, social work or specialised behaviour analysis programmes.

The programme emphasises transferable skills — critical thinking, data literacy, communication and ethical practice — that are valued across public, private and third-sector employers.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta combines a comprehensive academic programme with access to local clinical and community partners for placements and applied projects. Students benefit from multidisciplinary teaching staff involved in both research and practice, and from campus facilities that support teaching laboratories, counselling and learning resources.

Studying in Malta offers the advantage of training in a bilingual and multicultural setting, preparing graduates to work in diverse community contexts. The university also provides routes to further postgraduate study and professional qualifications for those who wish to specialise or pursue registration in regulated professions.