Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme covers core areas of psychology—biological, cognitive, social and individual differences—while focusing on how people learn and develop across the lifespan, particularly in childhood and adolescence. In early stages you will study foundational topics such as introduction to psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive processes, and research methods and statistics. As you progress you will take specialist modules in educational psychology, child and adolescent development, assessment and intervention in educational settings, atypical development (for example neurodevelopmental conditions), and learning theories in practice.

• Research methods and statistics with practical lab sessions and data analysis.
• Typical and atypical development across infancy, childhood and adolescence.
• Theories and practice in learning, classroom behaviour and inclusive education.
• Assessment, evidence-based interventions and outcome evaluation in educational contexts.
• Optional topics such as social development, attachment, developmental psychopathology, and cognition in education.
• Final-year empirical project or dissertation allowing you to pursue an original study in educational or developmental psychology.

Teaching combines lectures, seminars, practical workshops, small-group tutorials and supervised research. Assessment methods include essays, case studies, laboratory reports, presentations, timed examinations and a substantial independent research project. There are opportunities for school- or community-based placements and applied assessments which develop professional skills used in educational contexts.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (A levels, International Baccalaureate or equivalent) or an accepted vocational qualification such as a BTEC. You should demonstrate competence in quantitative reasoning or mathematics and evidence of scientific or social-science study is beneficial. Mature applicants with relevant experience in education, childcare or support services are welcomed.

• GCSE or equivalent literacy and numeracy qualifications are normally required.
• Personal statement and references should show motivation for studying psychology and for working with children, young people or educational settings.
• Some modules and placement opportunities may require a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and/or occupational health clearance.
• International applicants should meet English language requirements set by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates gain transferable skills in research design, data analysis, report writing, critical thinking and professional communication that are valued across public, private and third sectors. Common career routes include roles in educational support and learning development, teaching (often following a PGCE), learning support assistant, classroom behaviour support, youth and community services, and roles in child and adolescent mental health and social care.

This degree also provides a foundation for further professional training: many students progress to postgraduate study in educational psychology, clinical or counselling psychology, speech and language therapy, special educational needs and inclusion, or research degrees. Graduates frequently work as research assistants, policy officers, assessment coordinators or in educational consultancy, often combining practical work with further qualifications required for chartered or regulated professions.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a practical, applied approach to psychology with strong links to local schools, health services and community organisations, providing opportunities for real-world placements and collaborative projects. Facilities include teaching laboratories, dedicated research supervision and support for statistic and data-analysis training. Small-group teaching and active learning approaches aim to develop both academic knowledge and employability skills relevant to working with children, families and educational institutions.

Students benefit from employability services, careers guidance and support for postgraduate progression alongside a campus environment with a wide range of student societies and voluntary opportunities that complement professional development in educational and developmental settings.