Keele University

What you'll study

The programme integrates the core areas of psychology (developmental, social, cognitive, personality and individual differences) with modules that examine neurobiology, brain imaging, neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. Teaching mixes lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals and tutorials, and emphasises research methods, quantitative analysis and critical evaluation.

• Year 1: introductory psychology topics, research methods and statistics, fundamentals of neuroscience (neuroanatomy, cellular and systems neuroscience), and practical laboratory skills.
• Year 2: intermediate modules in cognitive neuroscience, biological bases of behaviour, experimental design, advanced statistics, and optional modules such as developmental neuroscience or perception; opportunities for lab-based projects.
• Final year: specialised neuroscience topics (e.g. neuroimaging, neuropsychological assessment, neuropharmacology), a substantial independent research project (dissertation) in psychology or neuroscience, and advanced optional modules reflecting staff expertise and current research themes.
• Placement/Study Abroad: students can usually choose a year-long work placement or study abroad option to gain practical experience in clinical, research or industry settings (availability subject to selection and validation).

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong academic qualifications demonstrating ability in science and numeracy. Typical offers ask for A-levels or equivalent qualifications; a science subject (biology, psychology, chemistry, or mathematics) is recommended but not always mandatory. Admissions also consider UCAS Tariff points from appropriate vocational qualifications, BTECs, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers and relevant international equivalents.

• GCSEs: passes in English and Mathematics (or equivalent) are usually required.
• International students: academic qualifications equivalent to UK entry requirements plus evidence of English language proficiency (for example, an approved qualification such as IELTS or equivalent if required).
• Other routes: mature students and those with relevant work or voluntary experience are encouraged to apply; interviews or admissions tests may be used in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates combine psychological knowledge with neuroscience skills valued across research, healthcare and industry. Many proceed to postgraduate training in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience or neuroscience research. Others find roles in allied health services, NHS and private sector neurorehabilitation, research assistantships, pharmaceuticals, medical technology and data analysis roles.

• Research careers in academic or commercial neuroscience laboratories.
• Clinical and allied health pathways (often requiring further professional training or postgraduate qualifications).
• Roles in healthcare policy, science communication, education, cognitive ergonomics, human factors and neurotechnology companies.
• Graduate schemes in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and roles in data science or statistical analysis that use strong quantitative and experimental skills.

Why study at Keele University

Keele’s School of Psychology and Neuroscience offers research-led teaching with access to dedicated laboratories and practical facilities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in behavioural experiments, EEG and other neurophysiological methods. The university emphasises small-group teaching, personalised supervision for final-year projects and opportunities to take a placement year or study abroad to enhance employability.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across life sciences and allied health on Keele’s campus, collaborations with regional NHS partners, and an environment that supports progression into both clinical and research careers. The collegiate campus and student support services provide a supportive setting for study and personal development.