What is psychology?
Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour, its antecedents and the context in which that behaviour occurs. There are many different levels at which the subject may be studied. These include: the biological level, which is concerned with the structure and function of the nervous system; the cognitive level, which is concerned with such functions as memory, language and perception; and the social level, which studies how people interact with each other in groups and organisations.
How will I study?
The School received a maximum score of 24 out of 24 in an independent review of teaching quality. Teaching is research-led, meaning that internationally recognised scientists present the lectures, tutorials, practical classes and seminars. All first- and second-year students attend lectures, practical methods lectures and group tutorials/seminars. Third-year students take a mixture of lecture and seminar modules and complete a 40-credit research project. We offer excellent computing and experimental equipment such as eye-trackers, a driving simulator, three MRI scanners and video suites for research.
On completion of your course you will have acquired a range of knowledge and skills including: the ability to analyse and assess contemporary theories, empirical studies and practical applications; knowledge of specialised areas of contemporary interest within psychology (and philosophy for joint honours students) through the selection of special options and project work in the final year of the course; problem-solving skills through practical and project work, including the ability to design, conduct and analyse various types of empirical psychological research; oral and written communication skills; and the ability to use information technology and information retrieval systems.
Assessment
Assessment methods include formal exams (60 per cent) and coursework (empirical projects and essays). You must pass your first-year modules but the marks do not count towards the final degree. Exams in year two contribute 33 per cent, and year three exams, 67 per cent.
Professional recognition and exemption
While the single honours degrees are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as providing the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, the joint honours with philosophy, being only half psychology, does not meet the requirements for BPS accreditation.
Study abroad
Students on the Psychology and Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience courses can apply to study for one semester in the second year at our Malaysia Campus without affecting the BPS accreditation. Students can also apply to study abroad for one year through Universitas 21 but this needs to be in addition to the three years spent at Nottingham in order to gain BPS accreditation.
Study abroad opportunities aren’t available to students on the Psychology and Philosophy course.
Further information can be found on our study abroad web pages.
Career prospects
For those students who do not want to pursue a career in psychology, the analytical and methodological skills developed during the course provide an excellent basis for many other careers, including advertising, market research, management, social work and teaching. For the 50 per cent or so who continue in the discipline, the BSc provides an excellent grounding for a research career, or for professional postgraduate training in areas of applied psychology.
Application and interview
The School of Psychology does not interview candidates. Applications are assessed on the basis of all the information on the UCAS form: GCSE profile, A level prediction, personal statement and reference. In selecting candidates, we take into account the context of applicants' academic achievements when assessing their academic potential.
Open days
Visit days for students offered a place are normally held in February and March. For details of University-wide open days, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/opendays