BSc Honours Psychology Degree

Overview & facilities

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and the human mind. On the BSc Psychology course, you will receive a solid grounding in modern psychology - a body of theoretical and practical knowledge concerning human behaviour and experiences. Here at Middlesex you will be using some of the UK's best facilities: psycho-physiology, social observation, virtual reality and auditory cognition laboratories, and a video editing suite. 

The Psychology Degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). You will also have the opportunity to combine your studies with Criminology and Counselling, which will give you a diversity of skills preparing you for wide range of careers.

Why study Psychology at Middlesex

• We offer work placements.
• 150 PCs and Macs for experiments and tutorials set up for psychology students.
• Specific options confer eligibility for the British Psychological Society graduate registration, which is necessary for a career in educational, clinical, counselling, occupational or forensic psychology
• State-or-the-art facilities for teaching and research in the UK, including psychophysiology laboratory, social observation laboratories, video editing suite, virtual reality laboratory, auditory cognition laboratory, testing cubicles
  

Content & modules

This programme is based at our flagship Hendon campus.

Modules

• Year 1

  Foundation Psychology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module provides a basic general introduction to developmental, cognitive, biological, individual differences and social psychology. The characteristic approaches adopted within these areas of psychology are explored and students are encouraged to adopt a reflective and critical perspective on the subject matter covered.

  Psychology Practice Context (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module explores the relevance and impact of psychology in context and practice. In the Autumn term it aims to demonstrate both the historical roots of psychology and the interface between psychology and present day issues. In the Spring term it aims to provide students with a detailed understanding of what they can do with a BPS accredited degree and to facilitate the development of career a plan.

  Psychology Skills and Methods (60 Credits) - Compulsory

  Module aims: to develop essential academic and IT skills, and to introduce students to the principles and practice of psychological research. Experience will be given in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data, together with opportunities for developing skills in the dissemination of such results with the conventions, styles and critical approach of academic work.

• Year 2

  Biological Cognitive Psychology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  Module aims: to give students an overview of the biological bases of behaviour and the cognitive approach to psychology. After initial study of the anatomy physiology of the nervous system, attention is focused on aspects of behaviour that have a clear biological component. Through a series of practical laboratory sessions students will investigate specific central and peripheral nervous system variables and their relation to behaviour. In the second half of the module, the nature of the cognitivist approach to psychology will be outlined and key theories relating to major cognitive faculties explored. Understanding of these is enhanced through a series of interactive seminars.

  Research Methods and Ethics in Psychology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module enables students to understand evaluate psychological research to understand how research design relates to research questions. It provides students with skills in a variety of statistical analyses and enables them to conduct ethical psychological research utilising quantitative and qualitative methods. It provides the foundation for interpretation critical discussion of published psychological research.

• Year 3

  Affective Science and Neuropsychology (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module offers advanced level study of topics in the psychology of emotion affective science , and neuropsychology. The module is designed to measure a variety of learning outcomes and to facilitate students development of critical thinking, independent learning, and research planning.

  Applied Social Psychology (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to explore the application of psychology to social problems in the areas of crime, conflict and violence, taking into account individual, group and social factors. It considers how individuals and groups become involved in, and perpetuate, these problematic behaviours, and also considers the consequences for victims, government and justice responses, and approaches to prevention. The module aims a to extend students understanding of social psychology through its application to social problems facing modern societies; b to develop students aptitudes for identifying pathways for social change through the understanding the psychological processes implicated in social problems.

  Business Psychology (30 Credits) - Optional

  The aim of this module is to build upon the knowledge and skills gained from the successful completion of one or more core level two psychology modules to study advanced areas in psychology. Business psychology focuses upon the analytical and managerial skills required in the area of human organisational behaviour whilst also providing students with knowledge and insight into personnel psychology.

  Dissertation (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  Students pursue independent study with a designated supervisor on a topic not offered in-depth among the normal range of modules. The student will be expected to carry out an original investigation using a recognised psychology or cognitive science research method, and produce a dissertation based on that research. The title and methodology of this dissertation must be agreed with the supervisor in advance. Undertaking this module will enable participants to develop their methodological and statistical knowledge acquired through previous research methods training; it will develop their competence in the production of coherent written reports which are clearly presented and which have an analytic and critical orientation, and it will provide the opportunity for final year students to become competent and self-sufficient researchers.

  Health, Exercise Sport Psychology (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module introduces students to the ways in which psychological theories and methods contribute to our understanding of physical health and illness, exercise, and sport performance. It will enable students to understand the psychological, behavioural and social determinants of health and illness, exercise and sporting performance. Recent research, including both quantitative and qualitative research methods, will be examined and evaluated. The applications of health psychology to clinical practice and the applications of sport psychology to working with skilled performers will be illustrated.

  Lifespan Development (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to explore the psychology of lifespan development using theoretical and research orientated approaches. It considers how psychological knowledge of ways in which development over the lifespan can be investigated and observed using research can be undertaken from a variety of perspective, s as well as how it can be understood using models of cognitive, biological, socio-ecological, psychodynamic and developmental psychology. The module aims a to develop students understanding of how theoretical, empirical and personal examples arising in the fields of academia, research and clinical practice contribute to understanding of each topic and b to encourage students to think reflectively about the relevance of these to their own life, experience and learning.

  Mental Health, Well Being and Consciousness (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module explores relationships between mind and body, conscious and unconscious mental life, the potential of psychology to help people to become more creative and fulfilled, and aims to develop students understanding of mental health issues and the clinical/therapeutic debates in this field.

  Psychoanalysis in Context (30 Credits) - Optional

  The aim of this module is to provide final year undergraduate students with knowledge and understanding of the history of psychoanalysis and its status today, as well as an understanding of its application. It will equip students with knowledge about the history and development of psychoanalysis and the ways in which it has impacted on a range of disciplines and on contemporary society. The module will consider how the conceptual tools of psychoanalysis have been applied across the arts, feminism, postcolonial studies, psychology and critical theories. Students will be invited to pursue their own particular interests, evaluating how psychoanalytic theory might inform and resolve theoretical impasses and those of everyday life. The module provides an introduction to the major figures in the history of psychoanalysis, and its key theoretical and clinical concepts and an investigation into its contemporary applications by drawing on the expertise and research interests of members of the Centre for Psychoanalysis at Middlesex University. A variety of teaching methods and assessment are employed to present and encourage the understanding of human development from different perspectives. The module aims to inspire and challenge each student whilst promoting independent learning and critical thinking to conduct meaningful research. It will draw on theoretical, empirical and personal examples arising in the fields of academia, research and clinical practice to illustrate each topic.

  Psychology of Language, Communication and Literacy (30 Credits) - Optional

  1 To provide an introduction to key themes, theories, empirical studies methods to understand processes underlying human communicative systems, in particular language, the acquisition of literacy, and aspects of musical communication. 2 To guide students towards the identification of key topics and a selected range of problems and questions related with the study of language and communication, and some of its applied implications. 3 To foster student s ability to design study plans or research strategies to deal with them, both individually and jointly with peers and tutors, to develop the ability to extend their studies of language and communication in academic or professional contexts.

Download the course specification

Entry & applying

We normally make offers on 300 UCAS tariff points and above , plus GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C. BTEC National Diploma/International Baccalaureate/Advanced Progression Diplomas at equivalent tariff. Access to HE - Pass. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience. Additionally overseas students whose first language is not English will need a qualification that demonstrates competence in English, IELTS 6.5 with a minimum 6.0 in all four components

Entry requirements

Apply now

Qualifications accepted

For a comprehensive list of qualifications accepted by Middlesex, see further information under entry requirements

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL internet based 72 (with at least 17 in listening & writing, 20 in speaking and 18 in reading).

Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk. 

Entry into year two or three (transfer students)

If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex course in year two or three. For full details of how this works see transfer students

UK/EU applicants with existing higher education qualifications

If you have already been awarded a qualification at the same level as the course you are applying for, you may not be eligible for a tuition fee loan, see fees and funding for more information.

Applying

Applications for UK and EU students should be made to UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. The institution code for Middlesex is M80, and the code name is MIDDX. You also need the code for the course you wish to apply for – this is found in the 'at a glance' box above.

International students from outside the EU can make a direct application.  We have a network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.  They have worked with people from your region coming to Middlesex before and can help. Read more on international applications

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for UK/EU students is £9,000.
The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for International students is £10,400.

Click here to find out more about fees, funding and our scholarships in 2012.

Careers & placements

Graduates  of Psychology are attractive to many employers because of their detailed knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and communication.

Graduates also become chartered psychologists in a range of areas. Others have trained as Counsellors, Social Workers and Academics.

Where do our graduates go?
Based on the data from respondents of the 2009-10 Destination of Leavers in Higher Education survey, six months after graduating:

• 92% of Middlesex BSc Psychology graduates were in employment or further study 
• 8% were unemployed or doing something else, such as travelling

Middlesex graduates from this group have been successful at gaining employment in the following roles:

Student Counsellor, Assistant Psychologist, Resettlement Manager, Witness Care Officer, Teaching Assistant etc.

For companies such as:

NHS East London, HMP Holloway, Parenting Profiles, Othman, Cygnet.

Placements

Placements at Middlesex University date back to 1968, and since then have played a significant role in providing relevant work experience to complement the academic training gained at university, thus enhancing employment opportunities. Indeed the placement course has also played an essential role in providing the experience required for those students wishing to continue at postgraduate level in areas such as Educational, Clinical, Forensic, Health and Occupational Psychology.
 
Procedure and duration
The Placement is normally for one academic year (33 weeks), and in most cases is based at an established organisation within the UK. In some cases there have been a number of overseas placements in USA and Canada, and more recently there are plans for internal placements within the Psychology Department.

At the beginning of each academic year the students enrolled for the Sandwich Degree register with the Placement Officer and are introduced to the Psychology Placement coordinator. This it to ensure that they receive full support in their preparation for, and placement at their chosen organisation.

The placement year commences after students have successfully completed their second year of BSc studies at University. Each student will then be assigned an academic member of the Psychology Department to act as their visiting tutor.  The visiting tutor’s role is to liaise with the organisation regarding the student’s progress and fulfilment of the placement requirements.
 
Types of placements and requirements of the placement year
A wide range of influential and established organisations are involved with the placement course, for example Great Ormond Hospital School, St Georges Hospital, Priory Hospital, Institute of Psychiatry, Institute of Education, University College London, Holloway Prison, and the Metropolitan Police. Students’ involvement in such organisations includes engaging in everyday activities for example classroom education within the hospital school and running of anger management courses for the prison inmates. In addition, placement students have been engaged in a wide range of clinical and educational research, for example eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, autism and stuttering, and investigating the psychological factors in relation to male and female rape.

During the placement year, students are required to keep a log-book for each week’s activity, to produce a critical review of their placement year and to make a presentation to the university organised placement conference.

Furthermore, the placement year is expected to provide an excellent opportunity for the students to develop and complete a scientifically based project in line with their placement experience, and submit as their final year BSc dissertation.
 
Benefits of the placement year
It has generally been demonstrated that students who successfully completed their placement year benefited greatly in practical experience in relation to the application of theoretical concepts gained at university, showed a greater sense of maturity and self confidence, developed an insight into their strengths and weaknesses, developed an appreciation of the reality of work and organisation and, most importantly, enhanced their career prospects. Indeed a number of our BSc graduates in Psychology are now in positions of full-time employment with their placement organisation, for example the Metropolitan Police, Priory Hospital, Institute of Psychiatry, Institute of Education and St Georges Hospital.