Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour, examining how we perceive, think, feel, remember, and relate to one another, and how these processes can go wrong in ways that cause distress. It draws on both the natural sciences and the social sciences, using experimental methods to build a rigorous understanding of human experience alongside broader theoretical and applied perspectives. A degree in psychology develops not only subject knowledge but genuine scientific literacy: the ability to design studies, analyse data, evaluate evidence, and think critically about claims about human behaviour.

At Teesside University this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, providing a supported entry route for students who need additional academic preparation before beginning degree-level study. The foundation year introduces you to the social sciences, including psychology, helping you understand how disciplines compare and how interdisciplinary research works. You will develop academic standards, ethical awareness, research skills, and the study and personal development habits that carry you through the main degree.

Once you progress to the psychology degree, you will cover the core areas of the discipline, developing your understanding of cognitive, social, developmental, biological, and clinical psychology, alongside the research methods and statistical skills that are fundamental to psychological science.

Graduates of psychology programmes move into a wide range of careers, including mental health services, human resources, education, research, social work, and many other fields where understanding of human behaviour is relevant. Those who wish to practise as professional psychologists, in clinical, educational, forensic, or occupational areas, will need to continue to postgraduate study and supervised practice after graduation.