BSc (Hons) Psychology with Foundation Year

Year 1

 Social and Developmental Psychology (20 credits)

This module introduces students to basic terminology and theory used in social and developmental psychology. The module contains a variety of topics which will be pursued in more detail at Honours level. Social psychology will examine the impact of social influences on human behaviour. Developmental psychology will evaluate changes in the psychology and behaviour of the individual as their age changes. 

 Academic Study Skills (20 credits)

This module encourages students to develop the academic skills necessary in preparation for undergraduate study. This will include a firm grounding in generic and subject specific writing skills and transferable skills to enhance personal development and employability. 

 Introduction to Research Methods (40 credits)

This module is a basic guided introduction to the research methods and quantitative data analysis used in psychology. Students will be guided through a range of methods and develop their skills and awareness of the usefulness and limitations of these approaches. Students will gain theoretical understanding and practical skills in qualitative and quantitative methods and data analysis. 

 Essential Psychology (20 credits)

This module introduces students to a broad foundation of knowledge in the core areas of cognitive psychology, bio-psychology and basic neurochemistry essential to understanding brain and behaviour. Cognitive psychology will introduce students to fundamental theories that influence brain and behaviour, biological psychology will introduce students to the structure of the nervous system and discuss hormonal processes relative to behaviour and psychological wellbeing 

 Exploring Psychology in Groups (20 credits)

Psychological theory is underpinned by research carried out by key historical and contemporary figures. Students will work in groups to explore a famous historical study with contemporary ethical considerations and then present their work. 

Year 2

 Fundamentals in Psychology 1 (40 credits)

This module introduces key theories, research, applications and conceptual and historical issues relating to developmental psychology, social psychology and individual differences. 

 Psychological Research and Design (20 credits)

This module helps you understand, design and develop research in psychology, with an understanding of the main qualitative and quantitative research methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and areas of application. You will gain skills in writing (scientific) proposals and using the library and online resources for scientific research, plus an understanding of the ethical issues related to conducting research in psychology. 

 Fundamentals in Psychology 2 (40 credits)

This module introduces further theories, research, applications and conceptual and historical issues relating to cognitive psychology, psychobiology and individual differences. 

 Psychological Practicals and Statistics (20 credits)

This module provides the skills to answer basic psychological research questions. You will learn how to analyse data using qualitative and quantitative methods, and how to write-up research in the appropriate format. 

Year 3

 Processes in Psychology (20 credits)

This module strengthens your critical understanding and application of cognitive psychology, psychobiology and neuroscience – as well as physiological and genetic approaches to individual differences. You will explore a diverse range of research, evaluating the application of theories on the basis of relevant empirical evidence. 

 Psychology in Context (20 credits) 

This module strengthens your critical understanding and application of key theories in social psychology, developmental psychology and individual differences.    

 Research Methods Training (20 credits)

This module extends research design, quantitative and statistical analytical knowledge – providing the skills to undertake more advanced psychological research designs, including competence in using statistical software. You will develop competence in qualitative research approaches and data analysis using a range of different methodologies and methods, engaging in reflective practice and considering the researcher’s role in conducting high quality, ethically sound research. 

 Applying Psychology (60 credits)

This module provides significant employer interaction and associated learning. You will immerse in work-integrated learning (WIL) projects co-created with external organisations. 

Year 4

 Inclusive and Ethical Practice in Psychology (20 credits)

This module supports you to develop into a fully ethically aware psychology student – ready to design and carry out psychology projects with the potential for real positive impact. The skills and attributes you’ll develop here will help you prepare for your future career. 

 The Psychology of Trauma (40 credits)

This module takes a multi-perspective and inter-disciplinary approach to the psychology of trauma. You will explore traumatic experiences from the perspective of the individual experiencing trauma, trauma survivors, family, community and professionals.   

 Health Psychology (20 credits)

This module introduces psychological theories of health, illness and healthcare – including how individual behaviour, health-related cognitions and wider practices in healthcare delivery may impact on health and wellbeing. You will also explore the link between psychological knowledge and its application to people’s health and wellbeing.? 

 Psychology Research Project (40 credits)

This module engages in an extensive and independent psychology research project – applying your knowledge and skills to ethics procedures and the production of a substantial written report. The project typically involves the collection of primary, empirical data from participants or equivalent alternatives. 

Practical Work

 A core aspect of the Foundation Year in psychology is the provision of the core module Introduction to Research Methods. Teaching and practical activities within workshops aim to introduce students to fundamental topics in psychology. Students will have the opportunity to engage in practical workshops and make use of dedicated laboratory space.

On successful completion of the Foundation Year, students will progress to the BSc (Hons) Psychology degree delivered at the University Campus Oldham, where they will continue to receive tailored personal and academic support. 

Our BSc (Hons) Psychology degree will develop the knowledge, professional skills and abilities that are in demand from employers. Employers in the general employment sector value the academic characteristics of a psychology degree, such as understanding of human behaviour, sense of citizenship, effective communication, good skills in critical evaluation and research, analysing and presenting information. Psychological literacy provides graduates with a range of professional and transferable skills that are valuable in many sectors such as public relations, personnel, marketing, retail, teaching, social work, finance, politics and sports. 

Companies employing our graduates in recent years include: 

32 UCAS tariff points 

From a combination of qualifications, which may include AS levels and EPQ. 

The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Foundation Year at the University Campus Oldham is designed for applicants who are from a variety of vocational, academic and non-academic backgrounds. The Foundation Year provides students with non-standard entry qualifications with a thorough and supportive academic preparation for successful degree level study. 

The Foundation year is also a time to achieve Maths GCSE at grade C or above and English GCSE grade C or above whilst studying if either or both have not yet been achieved.