Psychology delves into the complexities of the human mind, examining behaviour, cognition, and emotions.
Studying psychology opens doors to many different career opportunities. From clinical psychologists providing therapeutic support, to industrial-organisational psychologists shaping workplace dynamics, this subject offers the chance for understanding and improving all kinds of aspects of human life.
Psychology is also transferable to other exciting careers such as marketing, human resources, and healthcare, making it a versatile foundation for personal and professional growth. Whether you choose to pursue counselling, research, or organisational development, a background in psychology gives you valuable insights into human behaviour and the skills to make a positive impact on both individuals and communities.
The impact you could make
- Help tackle stigmas, such as mental health, by completing research that influences effective interventions.
- Promote individual wellbeing and develop enhanced self-awareness.
- Influence workplace dynamics or educational settings to promote healthier and more productive environments.
What you could study
- Applied psychology
- Child psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Educational psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Sport psychology
- Experimental psychology
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Chat to a current psychology student
Chat to a current psychology student using UniBuddy.
Some conversation starters for you:
- Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
- Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
- Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
- Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
- Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
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Example module
Example project
Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Some psychology courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
At least one from chemistry, physics, biology or maths
Sociology
Geography
Anthropology
Economics
Politics
Philosophy
History
Literature
Hard skills you'll develop
- Enhanced research skills
- Data and statistical analysis
- Application of therapeutic techniques
- Evaluation of cognitive functions
Soft skills you'll develop
- Attentive and active listening
- Empathising with others
- Ability to adapt to new information
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Careers: Where it can take you
Find out more about your career prospects from studying psychology. The following information is based on a typical clinical psychologist role.
Average salary
Available jobs
Career options
Medicine, dentistry, and nursing
Marketing and sales
What is a… behavioural design consultant?
Imagine stepping into the world of behavioural design where you’d collaborate with businesses and organisations to create user-friendly products, services, and environments. Using psychological principles, you enhance user experiences, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to the design of spaces that positively influence behaviour. From designing intuitive mobile apps to crafting employee engagement programs, understanding psychology is a key asset in creating solutions that seamlessly align with the way people think and interact.
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study psychology at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from psychology applicants.
A levels
Scottish Highers
Vocational
Care services apprenticeships
Check out our industry guide to help you decide if a care services apprenticeship might be the right choice for you.
A degree in psychology offers not only a pathway to becoming a psychologist, but also the knowledge and skills that you can apply in a wide range of careers.
Other subjects you may be interested in
Considering an apprenticeship?
Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:-
1
Deadline
Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer. -
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Where to apply
You apply directly through the employer. -
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No limits
You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like. -
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Apply to university and apprenticeships
There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies. -
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Find out more
Explore further
Go deeper into topics around psychology with the following:-
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The Psychology Podcast
Listen to inspiring scientists, thinkers, and other self-actualised individuals who will give you a greater understanding of yourself, others, and the world we live in. -
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TED talks – The psychology of your future self
Hear research on a phenomenon where we somehow imagine that the person we are right now is the person we'll be for the rest of time. Hint: that's not the case. -
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Keep up-to-date
You'll find all the latest news and research on the UK’s voice and home of psychology, the British Psychological Society website.
Application advice
Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your psychology journey.
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Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
Skills, experiences and interests to mention
- Have you got a curious mind?
- Are you fascinated by the way people think and behave?
- Have you studied psychology before or maybe a subject that’s closely linked?
- Do you consider yourself self-motivated? Demonstrating your ability to study independently is a great skill for psychology students.
- How are your communication skills and are you good at collaborating with different stakeholders?
- How passionate are you? Find a way to talk about why you love psychology and the route you’d like explore from a career perspective.
