Course summary

Psychology is a fascinating subject that aims to understand why people behave in the way that they do, by considering the complex interplay between biological, psychological, environmental, cultural, and social influences on behaviour. This academic discipline encompasses a wide range of topics including how changes in the brain influence behaviour, why false memories occur, why people behave differently when they are in a group, how language influences thinking, how we learn to understand other’s intentions, how psychological distress can be alleviated, why we identify with some people and not others, how subconscious processes influence our behaviour, and how our thinking develops as we grow from children to adults. Studying on our BSc (Hons) Psychology at Aston University will provide you with the basis for understanding why people act in certain ways, and insight into methods of changing their behaviour. By choosing to study at Aston you will gain a degree accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), have the opportunity to complete a career-enhancing placement in the UK or internationally, and be taught by leading experts from a range of specialist psychological fields. There is a huge demand across a range of industries for graduates with a specialism in psychology, as it provides a wide range of transferable skills such as the ability to problem solve, answer complex but important questions, communicate effectively, critical analysis, writing, and research. Graduates from across our suite of psychology courses go on to a variety of different careers. Some choose to use their British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation to continue their studies post-graduation, working towards a career in occupational, educational or clinical psychology. Many graduates also go into careers such as human resources, organisational development, marketing, business, or the creative industries. Key course benefits:

• Our courses are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and confer eligibility for the Graduate Chartered Membership (MBPsS) of the BPS, which is vital for students who wish to ultimately train as a professional psychologist (clinical, educational, forensic, occupational etc). It is also the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

• Access a wide range of specialist facilities including an observation suite (with covert audio-visual recording), equipment and tools for psychophysiological measurement, eye tracking and motion capture, dedicated laboratories for cognitive experiments, and larger facilities for focus groups and audience-based research.

• Study for 3 years or the option of an integrated placement year with a 4-year study option. Students have an opportunity to take a placement year (optional)in the UK or abroad, designed to set studies in a real-world context and improve employability.

• 93% of our students felt positive about the academic support provided on their course (Psychology, National Student Survey, 2024)

• Ranked top 13th in the UK for Graduate Prospects – on track (Psychology, Complete University Guide, 2025).

• Our recent graduates have gone on to secure work in organisations such as the NHS, the City Council, the UK police force, and mental health charities.

• You’ll be taught by research-led academics. Our School of Psychology is home to a large range of teaching and research active staff with interests in neuroscience and neurodevelopment, ageing, cognitive and affective neuroscience, neuroimaging (including neuroimaging of clinical populations), health and lifespan development, and sensory and perceptual systems.