Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour, examining how people think, feel, perceive, develop, and relate to one another. It is a discipline that combines rigorous empirical methods with questions of genuine human significance, and its applications span healthcare, education, organisations, sport, law, and public policy. Studying psychology provides both a fascinating body of knowledge and a set of analytical and research skills that are valued across an extraordinarily wide range of careers.
This part-time distance learning programme at the Open University makes psychology accessible to students who cannot commit to full-time campus study. The Open University's approach is built around high-quality study materials, online resources, and structured tutor support, and it has a long track record of producing graduates who are fully equipped for further study and professional practice. You will study the core areas recognised by the British Psychological Society: biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and individual differences.
Research methods and statistics are central to the curriculum, because psychology is an evidence-based science and the ability to design, interpret, and evaluate research is fundamental to the discipline. The flexibility of the distance learning format means you can study at a pace that suits your life, though the Open University's structured programme provides a clear pathway from start to finish.
Psychology graduates from the Open University, as from any BPS-accredited programme, are well placed for further training in clinical, counselling, educational, occupational, or forensic psychology. Many graduates are already working in healthcare, education, or social care when they study, and the degree consolidates and extends knowledge they apply in their roles. Others go on to roles in mental health services, research, human resources, and the wide range of other fields where psychological understanding is valued.
Postgraduate options include conversion courses, master's degrees, and doctoral training programmes.