Overview

Understanding mind, brain and behaviour has real power to shape fields from healthcare to marketing, and studying it as a rigorous experimental science reveals just how much of human behaviour can be explained, predicted and changed. The BSc (Hons) Psychology at the University of York is taught by internationally recognised researchers within a purpose-built psychology building, giving students access to advanced facilities including an fMRI scanner, MEG scanner and dedicated sleep and virtual reality labs. Students build core knowledge across social, cognitive, developmental and biological psychology before specialising through an original final-year research project. The course suits students who want a scientifically rigorous, BPS-accredited route into psychology, with a unique fast-track link into clinical psychology training at the University of Hull.

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What You'll Learn

• Brain and behaviour, perception and cognition, and social psychology and individual differences

• Language and development across the lifespan

• Core research methods, including experimental design and statistical analysis

• How psychological research applies to real-world settings such as healthcare, education and industry

• Specialist final-year topics such as forensic psychology, clinical psychology or the neurobiology of depression

• Advanced research methods, building toward independent scientific investigation

• An original final-year research project, supervised by a member of academic staff

• The option to complete a literature survey critically evaluating a psychological topic in depth

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to explain the scientific underpinnings of psychology, with particular emphasis on how brain function shapes human behaviour and experience. They will be equipped to critically evaluate psychological theory using empirical evidence, and to design, conduct and interpret scientifically rigorous studies using appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods. Through a substantial final-year research project, students will develop strong skills in scientific reasoning, problem-solving and communicating complex information to varied audiences. Graduates will leave with a BPS-accredited understanding of psychology, well prepared for further professional training or a wide range of careers spanning healthcare, education, forensic services, human resources and market research.