Undergraduate BSc (Hons)

Psychology (First Year Taught at Salford City College)

Attendance

Full-time

Course

Three year

Next enrolment

September 2025

Introduction

In a nutshell

Dive into the fascinating world of studying the human mind and behaviour with our psychology programme at the University of Salford. 

Designed to provide graduates with in-depth knowledge and opportunities to meet the demands of today's workplaces, this course provides a thorough understanding of diverse psychological concepts. Through a hands-on approach, we focus on honing your research skills and encouraging the practical application of theories in real-world scenarios. 

Psychology graduates are highly sought after in a variety of workplaces, equipped not just with theoretical knowledge but also with the ability to effectively apply their understanding in professional settings. 

In the first year of this course, classes will take place in smaller groups at Salford City College. For the second and third years of study, you will be based at the University's Frederick Road campus. Discover the advantages of studying at a partner college

You will:

  • Learn about the core areas of psychology: biological, cognitive, developmental, social and individual differences.
  • Learn to be a critical thinker, able to consider a problem, develop a research plan and execute that plan.
  • Be able to choose from optional modules, allowing you to explore areas of particular interest to you.

Course accreditations

The British Psychological Society logo

This is for you if...

1.

You would prefer to get used to the demands of university study in a smaller, supportive environment.

2.

You have a desire to explore all areas of psychology.

3.

You are curious to discover more about the range of human behaviours.

4.

You have strong written skills and an aptitude for research.

5.

You are good at solving problems.

6.

You are creative and flexible.

Course details

All about the course

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) – if you achieve a lower second class degree or above, Graduate Basis for Registration is awarded. This is the first step to becoming a chartered psychologist.

You will initially be introduced to the key areas of psychology, then explore these in detail at year two, then in year three, you have optional modules in which you can explore areas of interest to you.

To find out more about this course, please visit the Salford City College website.

The first year of this course is taught at Salford City College. Please check their website for details of upcoming Open Days.

During the second year you will also have the opportunity to apply for a sandwich year which will be taken between the second and third year of your programme, to either study abroad or gain professional experience. Please note, there is a limited number of placements available and therefore a place on the sandwich year isn't guaranteed.

Year one

Introduction to Research Methods

This module introduces the methods which are used in psychology and related fields. Statistical concepts and the quantitative methods which they underpin are taught alongside qualitative methods. The module builds knowledge which is important in interpreting the research papers you will read over the course of your degree as well as providing the foundation for skills which you will need in order to conduct your own research projects.

Introduction to Developmental and Social Psychology

You will be introduced to key factors in human development including social, emotional, cognitive and biological foundation, as well as how children learn to talk. Within social psychology you will look at how individuals perceive, influence and interact with others, including through verbal and non-verbal communication.

Introduction to Individual Differences

This module introduces the study of personality, intelligence, gender and mental health. Understanding these differences can be applied later in your studies to understand, for example, why some children learn language faster than others, or why men’s and women’s language use is sometimes so different.

Introduction to Biological and Cognitive Psychology

You will be introduced to the basic biological processes and cognitive principles necessary for understanding human psychology. Language is a key cognitive skill, and this module covers topics such as reading and listening, automatic word identification, resolving linguistic ambiguities, and aphasia.

The Science of Psychology

You will explore methodological principles in psychology, through scientific enquiry and practice.

Psychology of Happiness

Explore applied topics like ageing, physical and mental health, cognition, and the impact of environments on happiness. Enjoy autonomy as you direct your own learning, culminating in a research study that allows you to delve deeper into the fascinating realm of happiness psychology. 

Psychology in Contemporary Contexts

Uncover the relevance of psychological principles across diverse real-world contexts, offering practical insights applicable to various areas. Elevate your skills as a critical thinker and problem solver, honing research and analysis abilities crucial for navigating the complexities of the modern world. 

Year two

Research and Professional Skills

This multi-faceted module equips you with the knowledge and skills essential for both academic and professional excellence. Not only will you enhance your understanding of research but also lays the groundwork for a successful Level 6 dissertation and a flourishing graduate career. 

Biological Psychology

Building on your first-year knowledge, you'll further unravel the mysteries of human and non-human animal behaviour through a greater knowledge of the field of Biological Psychology. Topics range from the biological bases of behaviour to neuropsychology, genetics, and evolutionary psychology, offering a comprehensive and captivating exploration of this field. 

Classic Paradigms in Cognitive Psychology

Elevate your understanding of cognition with this advanced module. Immerse yourself in a world of empirical studies and contemporary theoretical models, to further enhance your expertise into such concepts as perception, learning, memory, language, and thinking and gain insights that bridge theory and practical application. 

Developmental Psychology in Childhood and Adolescence

Further expand your knowledge of the depth and relevance of Developmental Psychology in understanding children and adolescents. Improve your skills by focussing on research techniques specific to this sub-field and witness the real-world impact as you apply module content to policy and professional practice. 

Individual Differences

Explore the rich history, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies of personality and intelligence. Consider diverse approaches, from trait-based and humanistic to cognitive and biological, providing a comprehensive overview and enabling you to apply your insights to real-world case studies. 

New and Critical Theories in Social Psychology

Extend your knowledge of Social Psychology through the consideration of ten areas for enhanced focus. These encompass aspects of both intergroup and interpersonal social functioning and provide basis from which to design and execute your own choice of mini research project. 

Further Research Methods

Further master the skills of research design and execution. Elevate your statistical ability to interpret complex results, including multivariate analysis, effect size, and confidence intervals. Dive further into the world of qualitative analysis, grasping methods like grounded theory, interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), and conversational analysis. 

Optional modules

Environmental Psychology

This module will introduce you to the field of Environmental Psychology, exploring current and seiminal research in key areas of human-environment interrelationships. Topics may include: 

The psychological significance of place; climate change denial and activism; psychologically informed architecture; media, politics and the environment. 

 

Experimental Programming and Data Science

Further unlock the power of programming, as you’re introduced to Python and PsychoPy for designing experiments in Psychology and neuroscience. Develop practical skills in programming, data processing, and visualisation to gain a competitive edge in the job market. 

Experimental Research in Cognitive Psychology

This module expands further on the study of Cognitive Psychology, allowing you to develop knowledge of how to carry out an empirical investigation and gain a critical understanding of the use of equipment to help answer important questions in the field. 

Further Individual Differences

Extending on earlier Individual Differences modules, further advance your understanding of a range of specialist areas and corresponding statistical techniques. These sub-disciplines will provide you with a deep knowledge of how personality develops and manifests across the life span in a range of unique contexts. 

Introduction to Forensic Psychology

This introductory module will allow you to apply previously learned psychological theory to understand criminal behaviour and associated psychological problems associated with offending. Sessions will also provide an insight into investigation processes used by the police, as well as the wider criminal justice system and the role of forensic psychologists and related employment pathways. 

Social Psychology of Everyday Life

This optional module invites students with a passion for Social Psychology to apply their expertise to explore the frontiers of newly emerging theory in this field, to recognise its role in everyday phenomena, to make explicit the impact of others on our behaviour, as well as to consider its expansion to the applied field of Political Psychology. 

States of Consciousness

In this module, you will explore psychologists' understanding of consciousness, with a particular focus on the biological and neuroscientific study of consciousness. You will explore questions such as; What is consciousness? What can changes to conscious states teach us? How can the study of consciousness contribute to the understanding of mental health? And could machines become conscious? 

Year three

Dissertation

You will carry out a large-scale empirical research project on a topic of your choice. The range of skills you develop as you navigate the process of research design, applying for ethical approval, recruiting participants and carrying out your research, performing appropriate analysis, and writing up your work will be invaluable in any workplace. 

Become Unstoppable: Professional Skills

This module will provide students with the skills required to be an effective professional. Students will reflect on their career aspirations, their own wellbeing and that of others within the workplace. 

Optional modules - choose four from the below:

Atypical Child Development

This module explores what it’s like for children growing up with various conditions like autism spectrum disorder, Down’s syndrome, deafness, and developmental language disorder, and well as the impact on development of growing up in adverse environments such as poverty.

Brain and Behaviour

This module examines in detail the relationships between behaviour and the nervous system. You will explore these relationships through the consideration of key topics in the field of neuroscience, including learning, psychopharmacology, brain damage, organic brain disorder and mental health.

Effective and Affective Thinking and Processing

During this module, you will learn to apply theories and methodologies from cognitive psychology to real-world behaviour. You will explore the influence of emotional processing on human cognition and performance and reflect on the optimal conditions for thinking and decision-making.

Educational Psychology

Develops your understanding of the relevance of psychology to education and provides opportunities to apply psychological theory and principles in the field of education and professional practice.

Forensic Psychology

An applied module which will introduce you to offender profiling, lie detection techniques and psychological theories of criminal behaviour; guest speakers have included a serving chief investigating officer, a forensic psychologist and a probation officer.

Media Psychology

This module explores the effects that exposure to media has on people, as well as how people process information from media. It looks at advertisement, persuasion, news journalism, social media and internet use, including the use of metaphors in the media. It also covers conversation analysis and discursive psychology.

Occupational Psychology

A practitioner based module which will provide you with a tour of relevant theories and topics (including stress, selection techniques and change at work), as well as an assessment opportunity to apply these in real-world settings, including your own experience in the workplace.

Psychology and Health

This module aims to introduce you to the concepts, theory, methods and applications of health psychology. It is concerned with the psychological aspects of physical illness, their treatment and management as well as what it is that keeps people healthy and well.

The Psychology of Children in Need

development including autism spectrum disorders; fetal alcohol spectrum disorders; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, etc. It also covers interventions for these disorders.

The Psychology of Extreme Violence

The psychology of serial homicide, mass shooting, and terrorism. The module also explores the neurodevelopmental and psychosocial risk factors in serial killers and mass shooters, the pathway to intended violence in such extreme cases of violence and the neuropsychodynamics of individuals who commit serial homicide and single homicide.

Psychology of Global Issues in the 21st Century

A new module which considers the role of psychology in a global context. You will have the opportunity to use your psychological knowledge to explore the issues of the day.

The Psychology of Mental Health

You will explore conceptualisations of mental health, explanations of mental health, legal and social ramifications of mental ill health, the range of conditions treated within psychiatry, and therapeutic modalities and agencies. You will also think about the language used in the field, such as the shift from talking about ‘abnormal psychology’ to less stigmatising terms, and also the linguistic origins of the terms used to describe mental health conditions.

Work Placement

You have the opportunity to undertake a work placement where you will be able to put what you've learnt into practice.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

75%

Coursework

25%

Exams

Teaching

Throughout your course, you’ll be supported by expert and award-winning staff, including authors of books and papers in a range of specialisms, some of whom have appeared on national television and radio and have been nominated for University of Salford teaching awards.

The psychology team are research active and have been recognised at both national and international levels and for work on driving, media, child development, addictions, clinical and health psychology, occupational stress, emotional intelligence and terrorism. We aim to engage with students in a variety of ways, including through the use of new technologies. The team are proud of the quality of psychology courses we deliver and are committed to providing stimulating and rewarding opportunities to study psychology – either as a single discipline or in combination with counselling or criminology.

Assessment

Assessment methods will vary depending on the modules you choose to study, you can expect:

  • Exams 25%
  • Research report 25%
  • Essays 25%

The remaining 25% will be split between:

  • Assignments
  • Practical reports
  • Group work
  • Presentations

School of Health and Society

We are focused on enhancing the health and wellbeing of patients, service users and athletes and our commitment to public involvement helps us retain our strong focus on real-world issues.

Facilities

We provide a comfortable and friendly environment for you to carry out a wide range of psychological testing. These include:

  • Eye-tracker laboratory – we have Tobii T120 and Tobii X2-60 eye-trackers to monitor conscious and unconscious gaze movements from a range of displays including smartphones and tablets.
  • Observation suite - with a two-way mirror, this laboratory allows for the observation of behaviour in adults and children.
  • Psychophysiology laboratory – includes functional near-infrared spectroscopy brain imaging equipment, heart rate monitors, and galvanic skin response recorders.
  • A dedicated computer suite that allows access to a range of psychological programs such as ERTSLab and E-Prime.
  • You will also have access to Psychology laboratory cubicles, Private interview rooms and a Social learning space.

For more details on the facilities available at Salford City College, please visit their website.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

You will be equipped to work in a number of environments, such as health and social care, business and education. You will also be able to continue your study at postgraduate level. If you go on to become a chartered psychologist, you may specialise in clinical, forensic, educational, health or occupational psychology.

Our graduates have taken a range of jobs within a variety of fields. Following graduation, you may decide to continue your studies with us on the MSc Applied Psychology (Therapies), MSc Applied Psychology (Addictions), MSc Media Psychology or a vocational course such as MA Social Work.

Some graduates have gained employment as an assistant psychologist, mental health support worker or within drug and alcohol services or have gone on to pursue a career as a chartered psychologist. Alternatively, you may take a role within advertising, marketing or retail. Whatever direction you choose, the key skills within this degree ensure that you will be both accomplished and imaginative in your career.

A taste of what you could become

A chartered psychologist

A mental health support worker

A forensic psychologist

A teacher

A clinical psychologist

And much more...

Career Links

The British Psychological Society (BPS) accredits this course - if you achieve a lower second-class degree or above, a Graduate Basis for Registration is awarded. This is the first step to becoming a chartered psychologist.

FURTHER STUDY

Requirements

What you need to know

This course isn’t suitable for international students. If you are an international student and interested in studying a foundation year, please visit our International Foundation Year course page.

The first year of this course is taught at Salford City College. Please check their website for details of upcoming Open Days.

Applicant profile

Your application will demonstrate a good understanding of the discipline of psychology. You will have strong written skills and an aptitude for research, together with a desire to explore all areas of psychology and enthusiasm to discover more about the range of human behaviours.

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

GCSE subjects at grade C/grade 4 or above, including maths and English. 

UCAS Tariff points

104 UCAS Tariff points.

A level

BBC

BTEC National Diploma

DMM

T-Level

T Level - Merit.

Access to HE

45 credits at level 3 (30 at merit) and level 2 in numeracy.

AVCE Double Award

BB and A level C, plus GCSE in maths, English and science.

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We welcome applications from those who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate. 

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test. 

How much?

These are the fees you will pay whilst studying at the college, you will pay the standard tuition fees for the period when you are studying at the main University of Salford campus.

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2025/26 £7,500.00per year

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. 

Apply now

All set? Let's apply?

Still have some questions? Register for one of our Open Days or contact us:

By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk

By phone: +44 (0)161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

September 2025

UCAS information

Course ID C803

Institution S03