Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme gives a balanced core training in the major areas of psychology together with practical research skills. In the early stage you study foundational topics such as introduction to psychological science, research methods and statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology and biological bases of behaviour. As you progress you take intermediate modules that deepen understanding of areas such as personality, psychopathology, health psychology, neuropsychology and lifespan development.

Practical and methodological training is emphasised throughout: laboratory and field research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and use of contemporary experimental and psychometric techniques. In the final year you normally undertake an independent research project or dissertation and choose from a range of advanced optional modules, which may include topics such as forensic psychology, applied cognitive neuroscience, occupational psychology, clinical approaches, and advanced quantitative methods. There is also a placement-year option (or short work placements embedded in modules) for students wishing to gain applied experience in health, education, social care or business environments.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a good secondary school qualification appropriate to UK higher education entry (for example A-levels, Scottish Highers or equivalent). Oxford Brookes considers a range of qualifications including international diplomas, access courses and vocational qualifications; mature applicants and those with relevant experience are also welcome. Typical applicants will have passed subjects demonstrating academic ability and numeracy; colleges often ask for passes in English and mathematics at GCSE or equivalent.

All applicants must demonstrate a suitable level of English language competence; Oxford Brookes accepts a range of English language qualifications and preparatory routes. Admissions decisions take into account personal statements, references and any relevant experience or motivation for studying psychology. Meeting minimum entry criteria does not guarantee an offer; selection is competitive and based on the overall application.

Career prospects

Graduates from the BSc Psychology follow many career paths. The degree provides the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society for students who meet the accreditation requirements, which is the usual first step towards postgraduate training to become a chartered psychologist in clinical, educational, occupational or forensic fields.

Beyond professional psychology, graduates move into roles in health and social care, counselling support, research assistant posts, data analysis, human resources, learning and development, marketing and user experience, probation and youth work, and public services. The combination of research skills, statistical competence and subject knowledge also prepares students for further study at master’s and doctoral level in psychology and related disciplines.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a psychology programme with a strong emphasis on applied learning, research methods and employability. Teaching is delivered by staff active in research and practice, and small‑group laboratories, seminars and workshops complement lectures. Students benefit from links with local NHS services, schools and industry for placements and applied projects, as well as access to on‑campus research facilities and dedicated psychology laboratories.

The university supports student development through careers services, placement opportunities and postgraduate progression advice. Studying in Oxford provides the advantages of a city with a broad academic and professional community while the campus environment supports accessible teaching, student societies and opportunities for extracurricular research and volunteering.