Overview
Discover Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the brain and human behaviour, and is one of the most exciting, relevant and rapidly changing fields of study.
Explore a variety of topics from brain structure and function, to analyses of conflicts, driving accidents, and mental disorders.
Psychology at Nottingham
Are you considering a career in research? Unlock your potential with our intellectually-challenging four-year course.
- Gain an in-depth understanding of psychological theories and concepts
- Develop knowledge and analytical tools to evaluate and conduct empirical research
- Benefit from the strong research culture in the school and learn from academics who undertake internationally excellent research (Research Excellence Framework, 2014)
- Access state-of-the-art facilities and experimental equipment, such as eye trackers and electroencephalography
- Accredited by the British Psychological Society
From our peer mentoring scheme to our esteemed society PsychoSoc, our students and staff are continually working together to create a friendly, supportive learning environment.
How you will study
You’ll learn through a variety of teaching methods, ranging from lectures covering the fundamentals of psychology, to practical classes and methods workshops, where you’ll conduct hands-on psychological research.
At the start of your course, you’ll be assigned a personal tutor who you'll meet regularly in a small group. This will support you to develop transferable skills such as essay writing, critical thinking and presentation skills.
What is an MSci?
MSci degrees are undergraduate-level courses which last for four years and have an integrated masters qualification. They are the equivalent to a bachelors degree plus a masters level qualification. These courses usually provide additional industry and/or research experience to enhance your future prospects. An MSci is excellent preparation for further study such as a PhD.
If you choose to study an MSci, your student loan will cover tuition fees and living costs for the additional year too (home/EU students only). If you are unsure about whether to choose an MSci or BSc, we recommend you choose the MSci to secure your funding. Transfer to the BSc may be possible but will be considered on an individual basis depending on the number of places.
Entry requirements
A levels and GCSEs
Candidates with at least one A level in a science subject (including Psychology, Geography or Maths) will be asked to achieve AAA or equivalent. Candidates without a science A level may be asked to achieve A*AA. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Grade 5 in GCSE English and Maths is also required.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
For details of other English language tests and qualifications we accept, please visit our entry requirements page.
If you require additional support to take your language skills to the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional course at the Centre for English Language Education, which is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.
Students who successfully complete the presessional course to the required level can progress onto their chosen degree course without retaking IELTS or equivalent.
Alternative qualifications
For details, please visit our entry requirements page.
Foundation year - international applicants
A foundation year is available to international applications for all of our courses.
Flexible admissions policy
We consider applicants’ circumstances and broader achievements as part of the assessment process. We may make a lower offer in some circumstances but do not normally vary the offer from the grades advertised. Please see the flexible admissions policy for more information.
Notes for applicants
For details of scholarships available to international students please visit the School of Psychology website.
Additional information
Teaching methods and assessment
You’ll learn through a variety of teaching methods, ranging from lectures covering the fundamentals of psychology, to practical classes and methods workshops, where you’ll conduct hands-on psychological research.
Our courses are assessed in a variety of ways, including written exams, coursework assignments, dissertations, essays, oral presentations, posters, and laboratory reports.
The degree classification is based on marks gained from all but the first year of study.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as providing the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, which is required for entry to many postgraduate professional psychology programmes.
Study abroad
Students on the BSc/MSci Psychology and BSc Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience courses have the unique opportunity to study abroad for a semester or a full year, while still completing within three years owing to our school offering the same psychology course at the University of Nottingham Malaysia.
Other destinations are available within a four-year course as part of the Universitas 21 initiative.
Explore your options
Year one
Discover core areas of psychology through modules covering biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology.
As well as lectures and seminars in these core areas, you will also have lectures in statistical methods, and practical classes, in which you will learn to plan, conduct, and write reports on psychology experiments.
Seminars and individual meetings
You will have four small group sessions per semester. Two of these will be related to topics covered in core lecture modules, and two will be based on more general transferrable skills such as essay writing, making presentations, studying for exams, critiquing research papers, and careers.
In addition to these scheduled seminars, you will be assigned a personal advisor with whom you will have individual meetings every semester.
Typical modules
Biological Psychology
An introduction to the neural and biological bases of cognition and behaviour. You will learn about the structure and evolution of the brain and the main functions of the different parts.
You will examine how the brain receives, transmits, and processes information at the neural level, as well as its visual pathways. The main scientific methods for investigating brain and behaviour will also be covered.
You will have two hours of lectures weekly.
Cognitive Psychology 1
Cognitive psychology is the study of mental processes, and this module will provide an introduction to the methods used by cognitive psychologists in their investigations of mental processes in humans.
A wide range of topics will be discussed, with some introductory discussion of how they limit human performance in applied contexts. The mental processes to be covered include those that support attention, perception, language, memory, and thinking.
You will have two one-hour lectures per week for this module.
Developmental Psychology
An introduction to the fascinating world of the developing child.
Lectures consider different theoretical, applied, and experimental approaches to cognitive, linguistic, and social development from early to late childhood.
Topics include the development of thinking, perception, drawing, understanding the mind, intelligence, attachment, language, and moral development.
You will have a one-hour lecture weekly.
Practical Methods and Seminars in Psychology
You will address several different psychological topics using a range of investigative procedures, primarily based on the experimental method.
The module will enable you to critically assess previous research and to design, as well as conduct, analyse, and report on your own studies.
You will learn how to program and use computer software for research and will have the opportunity to be a participant in another person’s study.
You will have a three-hour practical class every other week, plus a two-hour seminar weekly.
Social Psychology
An introduction to the core topics in social psychology, which is concerned with trying to understand the social behaviour of individuals in terms of both internal characteristics of the person (e.g. cognitive mental processes) and external influences (the social environment).
Lectures will cover topics including how we define the self, attitudes, attribution, obedience, aggression, pro-social behaviour and formation of friendships.
You will have a one-hour lecture weekly.
Statistical Methods 1
This full-year module introduces you to basic aspects of research design, and to the statistical representation and analysis of data.
You will be trained in statistical analysis, using software such as the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).
You will gain an understanding of the issues underlying experimental and correlational research designs.
You will have a one-hour lecture weekly.
The above is a sample of the typical modules that we offer at the date of publication but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. This prospectus may be updated over the duration of the course, as modules may change due to developments in the curriculum or in the research interests of staff.
Year two
You will build on the knowledge you gained in your first year by tackling similar topics in greater depth as well as more advanced theoretical problems.
In practical classes, you will continue to develop your skills in planning, implementing, and reporting psychological research.
Seminars and individual meetings
As in the first year, you will have four seminars per semester. Two of these will be related to topics covered in core lecture modules, and two will be based on more general transferrable skills.
You will also have individual meetings with your advisor every semester.
Typical modules
Cognitive Psychology 2
You will examine in greater depth - perception, language, human memory, thinking, and problem-solving.
For each topic, you will explore existing theories and contemporary issues to enable you to take an interdisciplinary perspective.
You will have four hours of lectures per week.
Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology
You’ll learn about the scientific, historical, and philosophical underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, which will demonstrate the inherent variability and diversity in the theoretical approaches to psychology.
By the end of the module, you will have a good knowledge and critical understanding of the influences of history on psychological theories.
There will be two hours of lectures per week.
Neuroscience and Behaviour
This module will cover issues in neuroscience and behaviour that are particularly relevant to understanding the biological bases of psychological functions.
Among the topics to be covered are psychopharmacology, psychobiological explanations of mental disorders, dementia, sexual development and behaviour, and methods of studying neuropsychological processes.
You will also examine the effects of brain damage on mental functioning including amnesias, agnosias, and aphasias, among other topics.
You will have four hours per week of lectures for this module.
Personality and Individual Differences
You will explore psychological explanations of personality and individual differences. In particular, the major personality theories are considered in detail and the application of these theories to areas such as abnormal psychology, criminal behaviour, and health are discussed. IQ is also covered and the evolutionary bases of traits. Complementary and alternatives to trait approaches are discussed.
You will have two hours of lectures per week.
Practical Methods 2
This full-year practical module is designed to give you hands-on experience with designing, running, analysing, and reporting scientific experiments. These practical skills complement the theoretical concepts taught in the statistical courses.
You will gain the ability to conduct and evaluate scientific studies within a small group. You will learn how to interpret statistical output such as SPSS printouts, and understand the implications of the results of statistical tests.
You will have a two-hour practical session per week.
Social and Development Psychology
Examine theories and experimental studies of social processes and human development.
Topics relating to social processes will include:
- social cognition and social thinking
- conformity and obedience
- intergroup behaviour
- theories of attraction and relationships
- prosocial behaviour and intrinsic motivation
- self-determination
Human development topics are also explored in depth such as the:
- development of phonology
- importance of social referencing in early language acquisition
- atypical socio-cognitive development in people with autism
You will have four hours of lectures weekly.
Statistical Methods 2
This module will cover the basic concepts and assumptions with respect to univariate and multivariate statistics, as well as issues relating to field studies, ethics, the reliability and validity issues as well as basic qualitative techniques.
The module will cover ANOVA, post-hoc tests, power, multiple linear regression, factor analysis, the nature of causality and field designs (both experimental and quasi-experimental), ethics, the reliability and validity of measures and field designs, as well as exploring some basic issues in questionnaire design and qualitative methods.
Practical Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience
You will be introduced to a range of practical methods from the field of psychology and cognitive neuroscience, and which are used within the School.
You will gain practical experience in projects related to psychology and cognitive neuroscience.
In addition, you will cover topics on the design of experiments and use of cognitive neuroscience techniques including functional imaging, human psychophysics, and animal models of cognition.
The above is a sample of the typical modules that we offer at the date of publication but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. This prospectus may be updated over the duration of the course, as modules may change due to developments in the curriculum or in the research interests of staff.
Year three
In your third year, you can tailor the course to your personal interests by choosing advanced modules from a wide range of options.
You will also complete a year-long large-scale independent research project, during which you will design and carry out the research yourself with supervision from one of our academic staff.
Seminars and individual meetings
In the third year, you will have one seminar per semester, as well as individual meetings with your personal advisor.
Core module
Psychology research project
This module will give you the chance to carry out an extended piece of research based on your interests.
A member of academic staff will supervise you in designing, carrying out, analysing, and writing up your project.
The work will be either empirical or computational in nature to test a hypothesis which can be original, or you can extend or replicate an existing study.
Typical optional modules
Mechanisms of Learning and Psychopathology
Supported by lectures, seminars and tutorials, this module aims to provide you with an understanding of the mechanisms of learning and memory in human and non-human animals, and an analysis of pathological conditions involving these systems.
You’ll study topics that include:
- perceptual learning
- the contextual and attentional modulation of learning and behaviour
- neuroscience-focused topics such as the role of the hippocampus in memory
Clinical topics include:
- the acquisition of phobias
- memory discords
- the psychological side effects of cancer treatment
- depression
There are two hours per week of lectures for this module.
Neuropsychology and Applied Neuroimaging
You will examine the deficits seen in individuals who have suffered brain damage. You will learn about the impairments to language, memory, perception, attention, motor control, executive control, and emotion.
This module evaluates both the clinical and theoretical aspects of these syndromes. In particular, you will evaluate the implications regarding how the healthy brain functions.
There are two hours per week of lectures for this module.
Neuropsychology of action: The body in the brain
Examine the psychological and neural basis for the planning and control of human action. Students will be introduced to scientific research, through their guided exploration of the neuropsychological bases for human action.
During the module, you will experience the multi-disciplinary nature of research into human behaviour, and by the end of the course, you will understand how a single issue can be addressed from multiple perspectives including:
- experimental psychology
- neurophysiology
- neuroanatomy
- neuropsychology
- functional brain-imaging
Cognitive Development and Autism
You will cover modern version of nativist and empiricist theories of cognitive development.
This module will also give you an overview of current theories which have been proposed to explain Autism Spectrum Disorder. It will provide an evaluation of these theories using behavioural, clinical and neurophysiological evidence from a range of domains including drawing and musical skills (savant skills), scientific knowledge, maths, social learning (trust and imitation) and social motivation.
You will have two hours of lectures per week for this module.
Forensic and Mental Health
You will receive an introduction to this growing area of psychology, with a focus on criminality. The module will concentrate on offending behaviours, typical categorisation of those who commit crimes or harm themselves, standard interventions for offenders, and the neuroscience of offending.
The module will also cover the current research on specific offending behaviours, and examine the role of the criminal justice system and health service in dealing with individuals who offend.
You’ll have two hours of lectures per week for this module.
Clinical Psychology
An introduction to the concepts of clinical psychology and the application of psychology in clinical settings.
The module illustrates how psychological models are developed and how they are applied in developing interventions. You will examine theory and evaluation of interventions for a number of disorders/clinical issues.
During this module you will have two hours of lectures weekly.
Altruism, Cooperation and Helping
You will cover theories and models of altruism, cooperation, and helping from the perspective of psychology, economics, and evolutionary biology.
The module will consider why people sometimes don’t help and actively try to benefit at others' expense (e.g. free-riding) and apply these models to anti-social behaviour, and how we cooperate to inflict injury on other groups. You will also examine models of helping, and consider why people ask for help. You will look at how charities implement some of these principles and whether they are successful.
You will have two hours per week of lectures for this module.
Educational Psychology
An introduction to the contexts in which educational psychologists operate by examining the historical development of the profession within a set of major legislative and policy contexts, such as the drive to increase social inclusion.
The module will concentrate on assessment and intervention work with specific populations such as young people who display challenging behaviour in schools, vulnerable adolescents, and bilingual learners.
You will also examine psychological approaches to group work with teachers and pupils as well as the application of system theory in helping transform aspects of schools and other organisations.
There will be two hours of lectures per week.
The above is a sample of the typical modules that we offer at the date of publication but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. This prospectus may be updated over the duration of the course, as modules may change due to developments in the curriculum or in the research interests of staff.
Year four
Choose from a number of advanced postgraduate modules, such as Advanced Research Methods or Functional Imaging Methods.
Extended research project
You will also have the opportunity to carry out an extended research project spanning the third and fourth years.
We believe that conducting research on the same project over year three and four will be advantageous if you decide to apply for a PhD place on completion of your MSci.
Typical modules
Advanced Methods in Psychology
An insight into some more advanced or specialised techniques of data collection, organisation, and analysis in psychological research.
Workshops and lectures will include the implementation of analytical procedures, such as specialised data management and statistical packages, and specialised data gathering equipment and software.
Functional Imaging Methods
This module presents functional imaging methods. Recently developed non-invasive methods for human cognitive neuroscience will be discussed with respect to their strengths and limitations.
The module covers:
- functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
- structural MRI (voxel-based morphometry)
- diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI)
- magnetoencephalography (MEG)
- electroencephalography (EEG)
- transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
Professional Skills for Psychology
You will cover general research skills and personal development skills. The module includes a number of workshops including presentation and writing skills, careers, understanding the wider context of research, consultancy, and practical and ethical issues, along with appropriate Graduate School courses.
The above is a sample of the typical modules that we offer at the date of publication but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. This prospectus may be updated over the duration of the course, as modules may change due to developments in the curriculum or in the research interests of staff.
I have gained so much experience, many friendships and have received a level of teaching that is second to none. The School staff are approachable, engaging and enthusiastic.
Careers
The course provides you with the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to understand, conduct and report empirical research in psychology.
You will graduate with transferable skills including the ability to communicate effectively, problem solve, develop and sustain a reasoned argument, collect and analyse data, and to study and think independently.
Average starting salary and career progression
In 2017, 96.2% of undergraduates in the school who were available for employment had secured work or further study within six months of graduation. The average starting salary was £17,775 with the highest being £26,000.*
* Known destinations of full-time home undergraduates 2016/17. Salaries are calculated based on the median of those in full-time paid employment within the UK.
Careers support and advice
Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2019, High Fliers Research).
Fees and funding
Additional costs
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.
Scholarships and bursaries
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help.
For up to date information regarding tuition fees, visit our fees and finance pages.
Home students*
Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £2,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.
* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.
International/EU students
Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Excellence Scholarship is available for select students paying overseas fees who achieve 38 points or above in the International Baccalaureate Diploma. We also offer a range of High Achiever Prizes for students from selected countries, schools and colleges to help with the cost of tuition fees. Find out more about scholarships, fees and finance for international students.
Related courses
Disclaimer
This online prospectus has been drafted in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content) are likely to occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for the course where there has been an interval between you reading this website and applying.