Psychology

Psychology - BSc (Hons)
with a Year Abroad

This is an archived course for 2021 entry
2023 courses

Psychology is the study of people – what they do, think, perceive and feel. It helps us to answer many important questions about society by applying scientific principles to human behaviour. On our Psychology with a Year Abroad degree programme, you spend the third year studying at one of our partner universities in Europe.

Overview

Kent is a leading centre for social psychology – the study of human behaviour in a social environment – and we also have strengths in cognitive, forensic and developmental psychology. Passionate about research, our academics are world-leading experts and can inspire you to develop your own ideas and become an independent thinker.

Our Psychology with a Year Abroad degree offers a high level of professional skills and can be the first step to becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

Our degree programme

In the first year you take introductory modules on psychology and optional modules from across the University. You also take a double language module or two modules in European politics, depending on the language of the institution where you are studying in the third year.

The second year broadens your scientific and analytical understanding of psychology, drawing on aspects of biology, computing and philosophy. Modules cover a wide range of topics such as child development, language, mental health, motivation, and forensic psychology.

You can also gain direct experience of research through the:

  • Research Experience Scheme (where you gain hands-on experience of working on a project and a reference at the end).
  • Research Participation Scheme (where you take part in a project as a participant)
  • Work Experience Scheme (where you volunteer with a local organisation – such as a school, college, prison or hospital – and collaborate on a project).

You spend the third year of your degree studying psychology at one of our partner institutions in Europe. You are taught either in English or in the language of the country in which you are studying. The programme is also available without a year abroad. For details, see Psychology BSc (Hons).

The final year of study gives you the chance to develop your own passions and follow special interests. A wide range of options means you can focus on what interests you: areas covered include developmental psychology, social cognition, language and communication, neuroscience, psychoanalysis and people with learning disabilities.

Study resources

The School of Psychology is in a modern building with state-of-the-art teaching facilities and two computer rooms. Our specialised equipment includes:

  • eye-tracker technology
  • electroencephalography (EEG) equipment for monitoring brain function
  • brain stimulation laboratories
  • physiology laboratories
  • child-friendly testing spaces
  • a virtual reality laboratory
  • group dynamics laboratories
  • observation suites.

Extra activities

The Psychology Society is run by Kent students. Previous activities include talks by guest speakers and the chance for students to publish work in the Student Journal of Psychology.

The School of Psychology also puts on many events that you are welcome to attend. These may include:

  • research seminars led by leading psychologists
  • professional development workshops
  • informal staff presentations followed by open discussion.

Featured video

Entry requirements

Please also see our general entry requirements.

  • medal-empty

    A level

    AAB-ABB excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking

  • medal-empty GCSE

    Mathematics grade C or 4

  • medal-empty Access to HE Diploma

    The University will not necessarily make conditional offers to all Access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. 

    If we make you an offer, you will need to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

  • medal-empty BTEC Nationals

    Distinction, Distinction, Merit

  • medal-empty International Baccalaureate

    34 points overall or 17 points at HL with Mathematics 4 at HL or SL 

  • medal-empty International Foundation Programme

    Pass all components of the University of Kent International Foundation Programme with a 60% overall average (plus 50% in LZ013 Maths and Statistics if you do not hold GCSE Maths at 4/C or equivalent).

International students should visit our International Student website for further specific information. International fee-paying students who require a Student visa cannot study part-time due to visa restrictions.

English Language Requirements

Please see our English language entry requirements web page.

If you need to improve your English language standard as a condition of your offer, you can attend one of our pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes before starting your degree programme. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.

Course structure

Duration: 4 years full-time

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

Stage 1

You take all compulsory modules and then take modules in your chosen language (French, German, Italian or Spanish), or if you have registered to spend a year in Netherlands, Poland or Turkey you take electives from across the University.

Compulsory modules currently include

SP300 is concerned with methodology in psychology, with statistics in psychology, and how they interact. In the lectures, relevant topics in methodology and statistics are introduced over the course of the year (examples are design considerations, counterbalancing, sample versus population, descriptive statistics, histograms, summary statistics, hypothesis testing). There are a number of dedicated lectures looking at how the psychological literature reflects the methodological and statistical issues that have been addressed in the lectures, and how researchers have balanced the requirements of methods, statistics and theory-driven investigation

Find out more about PSYC3000

This module provides students with an introduction to the methods, techniques and issues of cognitive and biological psychology. The module covers the historical development of cognitive psychology as a science, the brain processes which underlie human behaviour and behavioural genetics. The module focuses on the cognitive processes of learning, thought, perception, memory, attention, intelligence, psychopathology and disorders of cognition. Each topic includes a brief overview of its historical development before introducing students to the current theories, methods and issues. The module is taught through lectures and the accompanying psychology specific skills seminars.

Find out more about PSYC3010

This module, along with other Stage 1 psychology modules, provides a foundation for Stages 2 and 3. It will provide students with an introduction to the methods, techniques and issues involved in the study of social psychology and developmental psychology. The emphasis of the module is on theory as the foundation of an empirical discipline and the importance of scientific methodology. It highlights the interplay between theory, research, and application in both social psychology and developmental psychology. In one part of the module, focus is placed on core theories and research in, as well as applications of, social psychology. In the other part of the module, focus is placed on core theories and research in, as well as applications of, developmental psychology. Each part begins with an overview of the historical development of the subject before introducing students to current theories and methods.

Find out more about PSYC3020

The Research Participation Scheme (RPS) enables students commencing their training in Psychology to gain experience with academic research through participation in studies conducted by staff and other students who are more advanced in their studies (i.e., Final Year, MSc, PhD). Students enrolled in the RPS accumulate credits that correspond to the time spent participating in studies. All studies offered via the RPS have received independent ethical approval and comply with the BPS Code of Human Research Ethics.

Find out more about PSYC3130

Optional modules may include

This module is for Post-A-level students and students who have mastered level A2 but not yet B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level B1. The emphasis in this course is on furthering knowledge of the structure of the language as well as vocabulary and cultural insights while further developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about FREN3000

This is an intensive module for absolute beginners, Post-GCSE students and students who have not yet mastered level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level A2. The emphasis in this course is on acquiring a sound knowledge of the structure of the language as well as basic vocabulary and cultural insights while developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about FREN3300

This module is for Post-A-level students and students who have mastered level A2 but not yet B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level B1. The emphasis in this course is on furthering knowledge of the structure of the language as well as vocabulary and cultural insights while further developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about GRMN3010

This is an intensive module for absolute beginners, Post-GCSE students and students who have not yet mastered level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level A2. The emphasis in this course is on acquiring a sound knowledge of the structure of the language as well as basic vocabulary and cultural insights while developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about GRMN3290

This module is for Post-A-level students and students who have mastered level A2 but not yet B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level B1. The emphasis in this course is on furthering knowledge of the structure of the language as well as vocabulary and cultural insights while further developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about HISP3000

This is an intensive module for absolute beginners, Post-GCSE students and students who have not yet mastered level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level A2. The emphasis in this course is on acquiring a sound knowledge of the structure of the language as well as basic vocabulary and cultural insights while developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about HISP3020

This is an intensive module for absolute beginners, Post-GCSE students and students who have not yet mastered level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level A2. The emphasis in this course is on acquiring a sound knowledge of the structure of the language as well as basic vocabulary and cultural insights while developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about ITAL3010

This module is for Post-A-level students and students who have mastered level A2 but not yet B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). On successfully completing the module students will have mastered level B1. The emphasis in this course is on furthering knowledge of the structure of the language as well as vocabulary and cultural insights while further developing the speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Find out more about ITAL3080

This module will introduce students to key topics in Forensic Psychology including the development of offending, the rehabilitation of offenders, the criminal justice system, criminal statistics, policing, and the public response to crime. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important forensic issues, and (2) key research methods common in forensic psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the important forensic psychological issues outlined.

Find out more about PSYC3060

This module will introduce students to key topics about Psychology in the workplace such as leadership, corporate crime, and workplace motivation – there will be a focus on the application of psychology to real business issues and questions, and lectures will focus on expertise within the School of Psychology at Kent. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important business, work, and organisational issues, and (2) key research methods common in work and organization psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the application of psychology to core work and organisational issues.

Find out more about PSYC3110

This module will introduce students to key topics in Clinical Psychology. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important clinical issues, and (2) key research methods common in clinical psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the important clinical psychological issues outlined.

Find out more about PSYC3140

You have the opportunity to select elective modules in this stage.

Stage 2

You take all core psychology modules required for professional recognition by the British Psychological Society, a double module in Study Skills, and further modules in your chosen language or in another relevant subject.

Compulsory modules currently include

The broad aims of the module are: (a) to provide a continued training in methodological skills appropriate to psychological investigation; (b) to provide advanced training in statistical techniques of the analysis of psychological data; (c) to provide training in computing skills for conducting analysis of psychological data; and (d) to provide direct experience of some of the phenomena encountered in other Stage 2/3 psychology modules.

The practical component of the module consists of a structured course of laboratory classes and non-laboratory sessions during which students work in small supervised groups designing and carrying out four research projects related to themes encountered in the department's other Stage 2/3 modules. A course of statistics lectures and computing workshops is closely linked to the practical classes. Computer–based statistical analysis is illustrated using R, a general-purpose statistical package.

Find out more about PSYC5000

The focus of this module is on understanding how children develop. Understanding something of the processes of developmental change is a central part of any psychology degree, and by the end of this module you should be in a better position to understand the significance of child development for human psychology. As the course progresses we will move from issues germane to early infancy, through childhood and the associated social, cognitive and emotional changes the child experiences during that period, concluding with an overall look at the bigger picture.

Find out more about PSYC5280

The module provides a comprehensive overview of the main theories in personality and differential psychology and introduces a number of key topics in research on personality and individual differences. We will consider what personality is, why it differs between people, and what the impact is of personality on life outcomes. The module introduces students to the basic principles of the scientific study of personality and the major dimensions of personality variation. We examine personality change and stability, the biological bases, and genetic and environmental influences. We will also focus on other important individual differences such as mental abilities (intelligence), political attitudes, religious beliefs and sexuality.

Find out more about PSYC5290

The Research Participation Scheme (RPS) enables students commencing their training in Psychology to gain experience with academic research through participation in studies conducted by staff and other students who are more advanced in their studies (i.e., Final Year, MSc, PhD). Students enrolled in the RPS accumulate credits that correspond to the time spent participating in studies. All studies offered via the RPS have received independent ethical approval and comply with the BPS Code of Human Research Ethics.

Find out more about PSYC5880

This module introduces you to the major orientations and discoveries in the social psychology of group processes. The material covers both behaviour within groups (e.g. group structure, social influence, leadership, and group performance) and behaviour between groups (e.g. intergroup conflict and co-operation, social categorisation and social identity, and prejudice and its reduction). We analyse the basic mechanisms in groups that occupy the same position in the social structure in terms of power, status, and group size, as well as mechanisms that characterize asymmetric groups. There is a strong emphasis on social psychological theory being examined by systematic empirical research. Teaching is by lectures and seminars with additional practical demonstrations from time to time.

Find out more about PSYC6190

This module introduces you to the major theories and research in the social psychology of interpersonal behaviour. The emphasis throughout is on social cognition, and three main areas will be considered: social cognition and the self, attitudes (including attitude-behaviour relations, attitude change and persuasion), and interpersonal relationships. There will be a strong emphasis on social psychological theory and systematic empirical research in both field and laboratory settings.

Find out more about PSYC6200

Optional modules may include

This module is an intermediate level module. Its aims are to strengthen and widen the linguistic knowledge provided in FREN3000 (French Lower Intermediate B1), to consolidate students' vocabulary and improve their knowledge of written and spoken French through immersion in a variety of texts, and to practise translation skills both from and into French.

Find out more about FREN6480

This module is the natural follow-on for those who have, in the previous academic year, successfully taken an intensive beginners French course such as FREN3300 (French Beginners A1-A2 (Intensive)), and who have covered the basics of grammar, acquired a stock of high frequency vocabulary and reached a degree of proficiency beyond GCSE and approaching A-level (A2 waystage in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference).

This module is designed to allow students, upon completion, to demonstrate a level of ability up to B2 threshold, turning students into independent users of French in both oral and written contexts. The course is thus also designed to prepare students for their year abroad and independent life in A Francophone country as a foreign country. This module is an intensive course, which develops the student's active and passive aural and written skills.

Find out more about FREN6520

This module is the natural follow-on for those who have, in the previous academic year, successfully taken an intensive beginners German course such as GRMN3290 (German Beginners A1-A2 (Intensive)), and who have covered the basics of grammar, acquired a stock of high frequency vocabulary and reached a degree of proficiency beyond GCSE and approaching A-level (A2 waystage in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference).

This module is designed to allow students, upon completion, to demonstrate a level of ability up to B2 threshold, turning students into independent users of German in both oral and written contexts. The course is thus also designed to prepare students for their year abroad and independent life in Germany or a German-speaking country as a foreign country. This module is an intensive course, which develops the student's active and passive aural and written skills.

Find out more about GRMN5070

This module is the natural follow-on for those who have, in the previous academic year, successfully taken an intensive beginners German course such as GRMN3290 (German Beginners A1-A2 (Intensive)), and who have covered the basics of grammar, acquired a stock of high frequency vocabulary and reached a degree of proficiency beyond GCSE and approaching A-level (A2 waystage in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference).

This module is designed to allow students, upon completion, to demonstrate a level of ability up to B2 threshold, turning students into independent users of German in both oral and written contexts. The course is thus also designed to prepare students for their year abroad and independent life in Germany or a German-speaking country as a foreign country. This module is an intensive course, which develops the student's active and passive aural and written skills.

Find out more about GRMN5160

This module is the natural follow-on for those who have, in the previous academic year, successfully taken an intensive beginners Spanish course such as HISP3020 (Spanish Beginners A1-A2 (Intensive)), and who have covered the basics of grammar, acquired a stock of high frequency vocabulary and reached a degree of proficiency beyond GCSE and approaching A-level (A2 waystage in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference).

This module is designed to allow students, upon completion, to demonstrate a level of ability up to B2 threshold, turning students into independent users of Spanish in both oral and written contexts. The course is thus also designed to prepare students for their year abroad and independent life in A Spanish-speaking country as a foreign country. This module is an intensive course, which develops the student's active and passive aural and written skills.

Find out more about HISP5040

This module is an intermediate level module. Its aims are to strengthen and widen the linguistic knowledge provided in HISP3000 (Spanish Lower Intermediate B1), to consolidate students' vocabulary and improve their knowledge of written and spoken Spanish through immersion in a variety of texts, and to practise translation skills both from and into Spanish.

Find out more about HISP5050

This module is the natural follow-on for those who have, in the previous academic year, successfully taken an intensive beginners Italian course such as ITAL3010 (Italian Beginners A1-A2 (Intensive)), and who have covered the basics of grammar, acquired a stock of high frequency vocabulary and reached a degree of proficiency beyond GCSE and approaching A-level (A2 waystage in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference).

This module is designed to allow students, upon completion, to demonstrate a level of ability up to B2 threshold, turning students into independent users of Italian in both oral and written contexts. The course is thus also designed to prepare students for their year abroad and independent life in Italy as a foreign country. This module is an intensive course, which develops the student's active and passive aural and written skills.

Find out more about ITAL5080

This module is an intermediate level module. Its aims are to strengthen and widen the linguistic knowledge provided in ITAL3080, to consolidate students' vocabulary and improve their knowledge of written and spoken Italian through immersion in a variety of texts, and to practise translation skills both from and into Italian.

Find out more about ITAL5630

You have the opportunity to select elective modules in this stage.

Year abroad

Going abroad as part of your degree is an amazing experience and a chance to develop personally, academically and professionally.  You experience a different culture, gain a new academic perspective, establish international contacts and enhance your employability.

You spend a year degree between Stages 2 and 3 studying at one of our partner universities in Europe. 

You are expected to adhere to any academic progression requirements in Stages 1 and 2 to proceed to the year abroad. If the requirement is not met, you are transferred to the equivalent three-year programme. The year abroad is assessed on a pass/fail basis and will not count towards your final degree classification.

Compulsory modules currently include

This year will be spent in university study at one of the School's exchange partners. The curriculum will vary according to the partner institutions.

Find out more about PSYC6060

This year will be spent in university study at one of the School's exchange partners. The curriculum will vary according to the partner institutions.

Find out more about PSYC6070

Stage 3

You carry out a research project in psychology as well as all other compulsory psychology modules. You also choose two optional modules in psychology, allowing you to follow specialist interests and benefit from staff research expertise.

Compulsory modules currently include

All students are required to carry out a piece of psychological research on a specific topic, and to then present it as a report that adheres to the conventions of academic Psychology.

Find out more about PSYC6002

This module focuses on the study of the biological bases of human behaviour, relating actions and experiences to genetics and physiology. The study of brain functioning is central to this module. It will address questions such as: How do genes, drugs and hormones influence behaviour? Why do we sleep? What causes behaviour? How are memories stored in the brain? What is the role of bodily reactions in emotion? Is schizophrenia a disorder of the brain? In addition, the module will focus on the methods that are used to answer these questions, such as the recording of physiological signals, brain-imaging techniques, and the study of brain-damaged patients.

Find out more about PSYC6040

The module gives a grounding in methods, techniques and issues of cognitive psychology and allied disciplines. Focusing on vision, memory, higher-levels of cognition concerned with language and cognitive control, and methodology, it examines how cognitive processes are instantiated in mind and brain. It also provides an historical overview of the schools of thought that led to the inception of cognitive psychology as a distinct academic discipline.

Find out more about PSYC6050

This module complements the focus of BSc degree on basic (fundamental) psychological research by providing training in applied psychology. The module equips students with an understanding of what is meant by applied psychology, of the domains in which psychology can be applied (e.g., in business, education, health, and the law), and decision rules governing applied psychology such as the balance between the cost and risks inherent in an intervention with its benefits. It would also introduce students to ethical, logistical, and methodological challenges in applied psychology. Students are also introduced to the history and philosophy of applied psychology, for example contrasting humanistic and behaviourist approaches to intervention, and a consideration of the role of socially constructed "value" in the application of science (for example, how prejudice versus homosexuality have waxed and waned as “problems” warranting psychological intervention according to prevailing social values).

Find out more about PSYC6330

Optional modules may include

This module tackles a variety of hot and/or critical topics in cognitive psychology, building upon the theories and research assimilated at Stages 1 and 2. The goal of the lecturers, both experts on their topics, is to bring students to a more advanced level, where they can start to evaluate pieces of research in terms of their findings, conceptual underpinnings and/or methodological choices. The overarching theme focuses on free will and metacognition, looking in particular at the extent to which we control, or feel we control, our cognitive processes and behaviour in areas such as decision making, imitation and memory. We will discuss research that has used a variety of methods, including behavioural, animal and neuroimaging techniques. Practical applications and relevance to a general understanding of behaviour will be emphasised throughout.

Find out more about PSYC5660

Developmental psychology aims to understand the developmental trajectory of psychological processes involved in human thought, action, behaviour and emotion. The underlying premise of this field is that a fuller understanding of any psychological phenomena becomes available once we explain when and how it develops. The main purpose of this module is to critically review recent research into key topics within advanced developmental psychology (e.g. social development, the development of prejudice, children as witnesses, the development of mindreading and learning from others). Through such an examination we will be a good position to understand the questions, issues and controversies that are at the forefront of research in developmental psychology

Find out more about PSYC5800

This module provides an introduction to important issues in learning disabilities. It examines definitions and attitudes to people with for example, Down's Syndrome. It explores a number of particular difficulties which people with learning disabilities experience, including communicating, establishing social and sexual relationships, and some of the resultant problems, such as sexual abuse and challenging behaviour. Finally, the most recent social policy initiatives are considered with a focus on how services might implement policy objectives (such as social inclusion and adult protection).

Find out more about PSYC6010

This module involves students in a project based on interviews with people with learning disabilities. There will be teaching sessions on research, interview construction, recording and analysis. Practical work will involve visiting a person with learning disabilities at their place of work and conducting a recorded interview with due regard to ethical and consent issues. A series of clinics designed to assist students in analysis, interpretation and presentation of the project work will follow. The module will conclude with students doing a group presentation of their findings to people with learning disabilities, staff in learning disability services and other invited guests.

Find out more about PSYC6020

This module offers an exciting opportunity to learn more about cutting-edge research into groups.

You will understand and apply group research to social policy, business, politics, marketing, etc. and get the chance to consider current affairs and personal experiences with the opportunity for small group discussions and team work. Example topics: alcohol and group processes, leadership, organisational identity, improving cooperation in groups.

Find out more about PSYC6030

This module provides an opportunity to study the literature on motivation, inspired by a wide range of psychological perspectives (e.g., Evolutionary Psychology, Social Psychology, and Existential Experimental Psychology). In this, we will consider what motivates human cognition and behaviour. Specifically we will consider; (a) General Theories of Human Evolution & Motivation(b) Biological Perspectives (c) The self and Self-regulation (d) Human Mating Strategies, (e) Embodiment, (f) Threat Management, (g) Emotion, (h) Religion and Illusion, (i) The Modern Unconscious (j).. Moreover, the module will introduce students to experimental methods and measures applied in the field of research on human motivation. Finally, applications of theory and findings on human motivation to applied settings (e.g., daily life) are discussed

Find out more about PSYC6080

This module will build upon the cognitive theories and research methods explored at stages 1 and 2. It will focus on several forms of neurological deficit each of which affects a different domain of cognition. Students will learn about how different strands of neuroscientific research, relating to behaviour, cognition, anatomy, and physiology, have both advanced our understanding of human neuropsychology, and informed on the design of relevant intervention strategies.

Find out more about PSYC6110

The module will systematically explore common logical and psychological barriers to understanding and critically analysing empirical research. Major topics to be considered include common fallacies of deductive and inductive reasoning, judgmental heuristics relevant to evaluating empirical research claims, essentials of a scientific method, misleading statistical and graphical techniques, establishing genuine associations, the role of inferential statistics for identifying illusory associations, essentials of causal inference, threats to the validity of experimental and non experimental research.

Find out more about PSYC6360

This module will provide students with an in-depth examination of the theoretical and applied aspects of Forensic Psychology. It will include the development of laws and the principles on which the judicial system is founded, offending by specific sections of the community including street gangs and career criminals, Criminal Justice responses to offending by the police and forensic profilers, the role and credibility of eyewitnesses and the interview processes employed with suspects, the role of juries, how sentences are compiled for convicted offenders, the aims of punishment and how prisoners respond to imprisonment, theoretical perspectives of rehabilitation and an examination of the implementation of the sex offender treatment programme. The module will focus on the in-depth application of forensic psychology to the justice system, its role in identifying and ameliorating offending behaviour. In particular it will evaluate the role of psychology in criminal justice: systems, policies and practices by presenting and critically evaluating research and research methods within forensic psychology. Students will be encouraged to develop skills to critique the literature and methodologies to further their understanding of the core forensic issues the course presents.

Find out more about PSYC6370

This module will provide students with theoretical instruction and opportunities for critical evaluation in abnormal psychology. It will examine the origins and identification of different forms of atypical cognitions and behaviours and investigate the psychological and social impact for patients. It will cover some of the major mental health disorders, focusing primarily on what research has to say about their social/cognitive/biological bases and the implications they have for treatment. In addition, the module will describe several methodological approaches, ask fundamental questions about the meaning of normality. The historical developments in this field will be examined and current interventions and treatments will feature highly in this module.

Find out more about PSYC6410

This module focuses on practical aspects of applying psychology to work and organisations. The module combines teaching of conceptual frameworks with opportunities to engage in evidence-based practice through case studies, project work and/or participation in peer mentoring.

Find out more about PSYC6520

This module is concerned with contemporary concepts, theories and findings in the social psychology of justice and morality. We will consider how social psychology has been applied to understand the basis of our sense of morality and justice, with a particular focus on how these theories can help us understand contemporary real-world ethical debates and be applied with benefits for individuals, groups and society. In doing so, we will see how the empirical methods of psychology can be joined with philosophical and political concepts of justice and morality, and better understand how individuals develop and use moral concepts to navigate the social world and guide their behaviour.

Find out more about PSYC6530

Fees

The 2021/22 annual tuition fees for this programme are:

  • Home full-time £9,250
  • EU full-time £15,400
  • International full-time £20,500

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* 

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.

Fees for Year in Industry

Fees for Home undergraduates are £1,385.

Fees for Year Abroad

Fees for Home undergraduates are £1,385.

Students studying abroad for less than one academic year will pay full fees according to their fee status. 

Additional costs

General additional costs

Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.

Funding

We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.

Search scholarships

University funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details. 

Government funding

You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.

Scholarships

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence. 

The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of A*AA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.

Teaching and assessment

Modules are taught by weekly lectures, workshops, small group seminars and project supervision. The Psychology Statistics and Practical modules include laboratory practical sessions, statistics classes, computing classes and lectures in statistics and methodology.

Most modules are assessed by examination and coursework in equal measure. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks and, where appropriate, the marks for your year abroad or placement count towards your final degree result.

Contact hours

For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours.  The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules.  Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules.  Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

  • meet the needs of those contemplating a career in the psychological professions, as well as those motivated by an intellectual interest in psychology
  • attract candidates from a variety of educational backgrounds
  • provide an understanding of the principal perspective in psychology (for example, social, cognitive, and biological)
  • introduce students to a range of theoretical and methodological approaches
  • enable students to study chosen areas of psychology in depth
  • cover the foundations of psychology to provide entry into the British Psychological Society
  • provide teaching which is informed by current research and scholarship and engages with work at the frontiers of knowledge
  • enable students to manage their own learning and carry out independent research
  • develop critical, analytical and problem-solving skills that can be applied within non-applied psychological and extra-psychological settings
  • develop skills appropriate for graduate employment, both in the psychology professions and other fields
  • extend students' knowledge and experience of psychology within the context of another university and country.

The French, German, Italian or Spanish tier of the programme aims to:

  • provide students with sufficient fluency in French, German, Italian or Spanish to study psychology at another European university.

The English tier of the programme aims to:

  • provide students with knowledge of Europe to enhance their studies at another European university.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

  • psychology statistics, practical experimentation and research
  • cognitive and social development
  • interpersonal and group behaviour
  • cognition and cognitive neuropsychology
  • personality and individual differences
  • philosophical and theoretical issues in psychology
  • the relationship between psychology and allied disciplines
  • different frameworks in psychology and levels of description and explanation
  • psychology in a European context 
  • linguistic expertise if taking the French, German, Italian or Spanish tier of the programme.

Intellectual skills

You develop intellectual skills in:

  • critical reflection
  • oral discussion
  • written analysis and interpretation
  • critical evaluation and exposition of ideas
  • development of writing and reading skills
  • time management and preparation
  • self-reflection and development, responding to feedback from different sources (for example staff and peers, information technology)
  • clarity in thinking, critical thinking, problem identification.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in:

  • conducting an empirical study, under supervision
  • the design and conduct of psychological research
  • evaluating and selecting frameworks and methodologies for exploring issues in psychology
  • using the major analytic techniques employed by psychologists
  • employing the inferential method of science (deductive methods, single case methods, semiotics)
  • psychological statistical methods and their interpretation
  • the use of psychology-oriented software applications (for example, database programmes, experiment generators, statistical packages)
  • disseminating psychological information to appropriate bodies.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in:

  • communication – how to organise information clearly; respond to written sources; present information orally; adapt style for different audiences; use images as a communication tool
  • numeracy – how to make sense of statistical materials; integrate numerical and non-numerical information; understand the limits and potentialities of arguments based on quantitative information
  • information technology – how to produce written documents; undertake online research; communicate using email; process information using databases
  • working with others – how to define and review the work of others; work co-operatively on group tasks; understand how groups function
  • improving own learning – how to explore personal strengths and weaknesses; time management; review your working environment (especially the student-staff relationship); develop specialist learning skills (for example by taking a foreign language); develop autonomy in learning
  • problem solving – how to identify and define problems; explore alternative solutions and discriminate between them.

Independent rankings

Psychology at Kent scored 93% overall and was ranked 5th for research intensity and 7th for graduate prospects in The Complete University Guide 2021.

Of Psychology graduates who responded to the most recent national survey of graduate destinations, over 97% were in professional work or further study within six months (DLHE, 2017).

Careers

Graduate destinations

Our graduates have gone on to work in:

  • government administration
  • social welfare
  • the Home Office
  • the probation service
  • teaching
  • special needs work
  • NHS and health charities
  • social work
  • public relations
  • marketing
  • publishing.

Many continue their studies at postgraduate level to qualify as a:

  • clinical psychologist
  • educational psychologist
  • forensic psychologist
  • neuropsychologist
  • occupational psychologist.

Help finding a job

The University has a friendly Careers and Employability Service, which can give you advice on how to:

  • apply for jobs
  • write a good CV
  • perform well in interviews.

Work experience

The School of Psychology has valuable links with educational establishments, hospitals and prisons in the area, offering you the possibility of both visits and work placements. We also offer a Research Experience Scheme that gives you a taste of working within a research environment.

Career-enhancing skills

Studying for a degree is not just about mastering your subject area. Employers also look for a range of key transferable skills, which you develop as part of your degree.

These include:

  • computing skills
  • writing and presentation skills
  • analytical and problem-solving skills
  • the ability to respond to challenges.

You can also gain extra skills by signing up for our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.

Professional recognition

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society as conferring eligibility for Graduate Membership with Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (provided you graduate with at least second class honours and pass your final-year research project). 

This is the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist, which is important if you want to work within the NHS or a local education authority.

Apply for Psychology with a Year Abroad - BSc (Hons)

This course page is for the 2021/22 academic year. Please visit the current online prospectus for a list of undergraduate courses we offer.

Contact us

bubble-text

United Kingdom/EU enquiries

Enquire online for full-time study

T: +44 (0)1227 768896

earth

International student enquiries

Enquire online

T: +44 (0)1227 823254
E: internationalstudent@kent.ac.uk

network

School website

School of Psychology

Discover Uni information

Discover Uni is designed to support prospective students in deciding whether, where and what to study. The site replaces Unistats from September 2019.

Discover Uni is jointly owned by the Office for Students, the Department for the Economy Northern Ireland, the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales and the Scottish Funding Council.

It includes:

  • Information and guidance about higher education
  • Information about courses
  • Information about providers

Find out more about the Unistats dataset on the Higher Education Statistics Agency website.