Psychology with Foundation BSc Honours

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Course Overview

Attendance

UK Fees £9,250 *
International Fees £17,000 *
Duration 4 or 5 years

* Price per academic year

Course summary

Our degree courses with foundation year offer the opportunity to prepare you for advanced study before you progress onto a full honours degree at the University of Westminster. Whether you do not feel ready for degree-level study, don’t have the right qualifications, want to change your subject specialism or return to study after an absence from education, we aim to encourage a broad range of students to undertake our foundation year in order to progress onto their full honours degree with us.  

The foundation year is designed to give you the opportunity to explore new ideas, opening up new perspectives on the key debates within your chosen field. Core modules accelerate your academic and professional development, bringing together like-minded students to think about the ‘big ideas’ within your discipline. You will also take modules from areas closely related to your chosen field, giving you the chance to develop a cross-disciplinary perspective on your course. 

On successful completion of the foundation year, you will be able to move on to study for the Psychology BSc Honours degree over a further three years study.

Our course will provide you with an exciting and unique learning experience, delivered by active researchers who are passionate and knowledgeable about their subject.

We believe strongly in maintaining close links between our research and teaching, which means that you'll be taught by recognised international experts. We are committed to understanding the place of psychology in contemporary society, and our course content is constantly updated to provide a fresh perspective into the human mind.

The course is designed to enhance your chances of successfully gaining employment once you graduate, and many of our past students have pursued careers in clinical, counselling, forensic or occupational psychology. Others have used their degree in related professions, including human resources, management, market research, public relations and social work.

Our course is structured to provide a strong psychology base from the start of your studies. What you study has been designed to meet the requirements for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society, preparing you for postgraduate training on the path to becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

Between Years 2 and 3 you'll have the opportunity to take a work placement year experiencing work under supervision in a psychological setting. Alternatively, you'll have the opportunity to spend a year studying at one of our international partner universities.

Top reasons to study with us

  • You’ll have the opportunity to gain a year's experience on a psychology work placement
  • Employability and transferable skills are embedded within the curriculum
  • You’ll be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society, if you achieve at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree and pass the Project module

Course structure

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical classes and laboratory work, supported by online material and periods of independent study.

Assessment methods may include exams, in-class tests, essays, oral and poster presentations, debates, case studies, and laboratory, practical and technical reports.

The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Subjects of study include:

  • Introduction to Academic Practice
  • Psychology in Everyday Life
  • Society, Risk and Crime: Sociological Perspectives
  • Critical Thinking for Academic and Professional Development
  • History, Memory and Belonging
  • Contemporary Themes in Psychology

There are no optional or elective modules offered at Level 3, as the focus is on the development of key academic skills through a broad understanding of social sciences and humanities.

Credit Level 3

Subjects of study include:

  • Biological Psychology
  • Cognitive Psychology 
  • Developmental Psychology 
  • Individual Differences 
  • Introduction to Psychological Research Methods 
  • Social Psychology

Credit Level 4

Subjects of study include:

  • Brain, Mind and Behaviour 
  • Data Analysis for Psychology 
  • Self and Society 
  • Understanding Psychological Diversity
  • Cultivating Employability Skills for Career Success
  • Emotional Life
  • Mechanisms of Mind-Body Therapies
  • Psychological Research in Practice
  • Societal Responses to Climate Change

Credit Level 5

Professional experience or study abroad year

Between Years 2 and 3, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement year in industry. Completing the placement year will lead to the final award Bachelor of Science with Honours - Psychology with Professional Experience.

Alternatively, you can undertake a period of study abroad at one of Westminster’s partner institutions. Successful completion will lead to the final award Bachelor of Science with Honours - Psychology with International Experience.

 

Find out more about the costs involved in taking a study abroad or placement year.

Subjects of study include:

  • Project in Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology 
  • Cognitive Disorders
  • Consciousness
  • Data Science Applications in Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Health Psychology
  • Music and the Mind
  • Occupational and Work Psychology
  • Political Psychology
  • Psychology of Counselling and Psychotherapy
  • Psychology of Education
  • Sexology

Credit Level 6

Professional accreditation

Students who achieve at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree and pass their project will be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society, the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

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Programme specification

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

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Prospectus

Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.

Request a prospectus

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Get in touch

Contact us for general course enquiries:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)

[email protected]

Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)

Open days

Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

More ways to meet us

Careers

With a growing global network of 3,000 employers, our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.

Get ahead before graduating

You’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable experience on a psychology work placement.

Transferable skills

You'll gain the knowledge and experience to work in roles such as clinical psychologist, educational psychologist and forensic psychologist.

3,000

Employers around the world

The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.

Career development

Our Psychology BSc Honours course is accredited by the professional body that oversees psychology in the United Kingdom, the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Students who achieve at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree and pass their project will be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered (GBC) Membership of the British Psychological Society. GBC is the first stage necessary for becoming a chartered practitioner in the areas of clinical, counselling, forensic, sport and exercise, educational, health and occupational psychology.

As well as pursuing careers as Chartered Psychologists our graduates go on to pursue academic research and to careers in teaching, health and social care, human resources, advertising, marketing and business.

Job roles

This course will prepare you for roles such as:

  • Assistant psychologist
  • Graduate teaching assistant
  • Mental health specialist 

Graduate employment

Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:

  • MIND
  • NHS
  • The Priory Group

International Opportunities

Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.

Opportunities could include:

  • Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
  • Attending an international summer school or field trip
  • Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad

International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.

Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.

Students working and studying internationally

Course Leaders

Profile photo of Frands Pedersen's profile photo

The safe and compassionate learning environment we have here encourages students to explore new ideas, grow their subject-knowledge, and expand their skills and build confidence.

Dr Frands Pedersen

Senior Lecturer in International Relations

Dr Frands Pedersen is Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the Foundation Courses in Humanities, Law and Social Sciences and the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA. He has Master's degrees in Political Science (Aarhus, Denmark) and Diplomacy (Lancaster). He received his PhD for his thesis on Para-diplomacy, which is an ongoing research interest alongside Public Diplomacy and Digital, Data and AI Diplomacy. He convenes the Teaching Excellence Learning Community at Westminster and the Political Studies Association’s Nordic Politics Specialist Group. He is also co-founder of the Serious Games@Westminster group. 

Dr Pedersen has led Diplomacy, International Relations and European Union related modules at the Universities of Surrey, Central Lancashire and Westminster since 1999. In 2016, he was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to innovation in learning and teaching. He is passionate about active and immersive learning and has conducted extensive research on simulations and games, run projects and created shared resources to facilitate active learning. Dr Pedersen's current research focuses on Nordic responses to the Covid19 crisis, aspects of digital diplomacy and city diplomacy, and pedagogical research on compassion in higher education.

More about meSee full profile of Dr Frands Pedersen

Dr Nick Smith

Assistant Head of School

Nick Smith joined the University of Westminster in 2014. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Leeds and MSc and PhD degrees from University College London. He has also worked as a researcher for the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication. He teaches across a wide range of psychology modules including social psychology and research methods. His research interests lie within the field of applied social psychology and he is particularly interested in the psychology of climate change. 

More about meSee full profile of Dr Nick Smith
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Psychology is a fascinating subject providing insights into our thoughts and actions.

Why study this course?

Fantastic central London location

Based in our Cavendish Campus in central London, you’ll enjoy the benefits of studying in a major global city.

Professional accreditation

Our course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

A supportive environment

We provide our students with the right environment, support and guidance throughout their studies to keep them motivated.

Entry Requirements

  • A Levels – DDE (64 UCAS Tariff points)
  • T levels – 64 UCAS Tariff points
  • International Baccalaureate – 64 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis
  • BTEC Extended Diploma – MPP
  • BTEC Diploma – MM
  • Access – 64 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course

In addition to one of the above, you should have: 

  • GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher Level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4

If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.

We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.

View standard entry requirements.

 

  • International Baccalaureate – 64 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
  • We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications.  Please see information on Country-specific entry requirements
  • We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide International Foundation Certificate courses for students who don’t meet our entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster.  Find out about a range of university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.

English language requirements

  • If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments.  Find out more at English language requirements.
  • If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.

More information

Learn new skills

Learn a new language

From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme

Develop your entrepreneurial skills

Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your startup projects. 

Gain extra qualifications

We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.

Studying psychology at Westminster

Fees and Funding

UK tuition fee: £9,250 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Funding

As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.

Find out about undergraduate student funding options.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs content

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme

If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.

International student funding

Find out about funding for international students.

Additional costs content

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

What our students say

Sam Parker

Psychology BSc Honours

I chose a psychology degree at Westminster due to the large choice of option modules throughout the course. The support from the course and tutors was excellent and provided me with the foundation to succeed to my potential.

Nazanin Tayeby

Psychology BSc Honours, Assistant Psychologist Broadmoor Hospital

Reflecting back on my time at Westminster (2013 graduate) as a psychology student, I am now able to acknowledge how helpful the course was in preparing me for the outside world. 

Eren Behget

Psychology BSc Honours, Project Support Officer at NHS London Leadership Academy

Studying Psychology at the University of Westminster was one of the best decisions that I have made. Lecturers were supportive, engaging, and passionate, while the course content was diverse, relevant, and interesting.

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable.  Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.

How you'll be taught

Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:

  • Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
  • Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
  • Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
Year
Year
F
24%Scheduled hours76%Independent study0% Placement
Year
1
24%Scheduled hours76%Independent study0% Placement
Year
2
24%Scheduled hours76%Independent study0% Placement
Year
P
2%Scheduled hours20%Independent study78%Placement
Year
3
20%Scheduled hours80%Independent study0% Placement
Scheduled hoursIndependent studyPlacement

How you'll be assessed

Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.

Assessments typically fall into three broad categories:

  • Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts  
  • Written exams: end of semester exams 
  • Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
     
Year
Year
F
0% Written exams12%Practical88%Coursework
Year
1
16%Written exams10%Practical74%Coursework
Year
2
20%Written exams9%Practical71%Coursework
Year
P
0% Written exams2%Practical98%Coursework
Year
3
0% Written exams4%Practical96%Coursework
Written examsPracticalCoursework

Data from the academic year 2022/23

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

  • Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
  • Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
  • Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
  • Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course location

With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring,

Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.

For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.

Contact us

Call our dedicated team on:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

[email protected]

Start live chat

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

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