Keele University

What you'll study

This degree combines core topics in psychology with modules that apply psychological methods and theory to learning, teaching and development. You will study foundational areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology and research methods, while also taking specialised units on educational psychology, learning and instruction, special educational needs, assessment and behaviour management.

The programme typically progresses from broad theoretical and methodological training in the early years to more applied and independent study later on. Common types of modules include:

• Foundations of Psychology: introduction to major psychological perspectives and fundamental processes such as memory, perception and cognition.
• Developmental Psychology: child and adolescent development across cognitive, social and emotional domains.
• Research Methods and Statistics: quantitative and qualitative methods, experimental design and data analysis skills essential for evaluating educational research.
• Educational Psychology & Learning: theories of learning, classroom-based interventions, motivation and instructional design.
• Special Educational Needs and Inclusion: understanding neurodiversity, assessment approaches and inclusive practice.
• Behaviour, Assessment and Intervention: approaches for managing behaviour, assessment of learning needs and evidence-based interventions.
• Independent Project/Dissertation: a supervised research project allowing you to investigate an education-related psychological question or evaluation of practice.

Teaching combines lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory practicals and school-based observations or placements where available. Assessment methods include essays, practical reports, presentations, examinations and a final-year research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised secondary school qualification (such as A-levels, BTEC, Scottish Highers or international equivalents) demonstrating good academic attainment. While psychology or a social/biological science can be helpful, it is not always essential; applicants with a broad range of subjects are considered.

Typical offers ask for good grades at advanced level or equivalent. Applicants are usually expected to have GCSE-level English and mathematics (or recognised equivalents). Mature and non-traditional applicants with relevant experience are welcome; all applicants must meet Keele's standard English language requirements if English is not their first language.

Selection may include consideration of personal statement, references and any relevant experience working with children or young people. Applicants planning to take placement elements in schools should be prepared to provide a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or the equivalent as part of safeguarding procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates from Psychology in Education have a wide range of career pathways. Common destinations include roles in schools and education settings as learning support assistants, teaching assistants, behaviour support specialists or inclusion coordinators (SEN support). Many graduates progress to postgraduate training to become educational psychologists, teachers (via postgraduate teacher training routes), or specialist practitioners in areas such as educational assessment, speech and language support or youth work.

Other routes include careers in educational research, policy, learning and development within the public or private sectors, human resources, counselling and mental health services. The research and data skills gained also provide a firm foundation for further academic study and doctoral research.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based university experience with strong emphasis on interdisciplinary study and student support. Psychology teaching is research-informed and delivered by staff with expertise in developmental, cognitive and applied psychology, with facilities that typically include dedicated psychology laboratories and access to research resources.

The university has established links with local schools, educational services and health providers, which can support placement opportunities, observational work and applied projects. Keele's small-group teaching and dissertation supervision help students develop practical research skills and receive personalised feedback. Additionally, comprehensive student-support services and careers guidance at Keele help you plan routes into further study or employment in education and related fields.