Psychology courses study the mind, focussing on emotions, motivations and human choices through research, data analysis and case studies. If you want to study psychology in the UK, you will need an IELTS score of at least 6.0 and A-levels in a science subject such as chemistry, physics or maths.
Psychology graduates can progress into various career opportunities, including but not limited to clinical, educational, and forensic psychology. Do you want to study at one of the best psychology colleges in the world? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today to start your application and learn more about why the UK is the best country to study psychology.
10 Best Universities to Study Psychology in the UK
Below is the list of the top ten universities in the UK to study psychology, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. University of St Andrews
The School of Psychology & Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews has a long, distinguished history and excellent modern facilities. Undergraduate courses such as BSc (Hons) Psychology are top-rated amongst students looking for good psychology colleges to study for a bachelor’s degree.
The standard of research at the School has been rated as consistently excellent, and they have been placed in the top category in every research assessment exercise undertaken, an achievement held by only three other psychology departments in the UK. St Andrews is one of the oldest universities in the world (founded in 1413) and the best-ranked UK university in Scotland.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: 36 (HL 6,6,5). A-level: AAB
- International fee: £30,160
2. University of Cambridge
The Department of Psychology at the University of Cambridge has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It was formally established in 1912 with the opening of a purpose-built Psychological Laboratory. Over the years, the department has evolved, merging with other disciplines to form a unified Department of Psychology.
The department is renowned for its world-class research and teaching and consistently ranks top globally. Its multidisciplinary approach promotes collaboration and innovation, with research outcomes significantly contributing to psychology and beyond.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Psychological & Behavioural Sciences
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*A*A. IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
- International fee: £39,162
3. University of Oxford
At Oxford, psychology is a rigorous scientific discipline focused on experimentation and observation rather than introspection, integrating data science and coding into student training. The Experimental Psychology Department is esteemed nationally, with strong research groups in cognitive processes, neuroscience, language, development, social psychology, and psychological disorders.
In addition, Oxford's Philosophy Faculty, a top-ranked department globally, specialises in language, logic, mind, and science philosophy, encouraging collaborations with neuroscience and psychology researchers for interdisciplinary insights.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Psychology & Philosophy
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL. A-level: A*AA.
- International fee: £48,620
4. University of Glasgow
The Psychology BSc programme at the University of Glasgow offers a thorough study of experimental psychology, cognitive science, and cognitive neuroscience to advance understanding of human and animal behaviour. Accredited by the British Psychological Society, graduates can attain the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, a crucial step toward becoming a Chartered Psychologist.
The programme integrates core psychology areas such as cognitive, social, developmental, and physiological psychology alongside individual differences and research methods. Active social engagement through the Psychology Society enhances the student experience with various events and team-building activities.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: AAABB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer. IB: 36 (6,6,5).
- International fee: £30,240
5. University of Bath
The University of Bath’s psychology department is world-renowned for its excellence in both teaching and research. Bath is in the top ten best UK psychology universities (Guardian University Guide 2024) and the top five for Graduate Prospects (Times & Sunday Times University Guide).
The Department of Psychology offers diverse undergraduate courses covering cognitive, health, social, and clinical psychology, facilitating interdisciplinary understanding. Taught postgraduate options at the master's level provide further specialisation opportunities.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 36 points overall and 7, 6, 6 in three Higher Level subjects.
- International fee: £28,800
6. Ulster University
The School of Psychology at Ulster University offers flexible and engaging undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, promoting student-centred learning and collaboration. Optional placement schemes enhance students' employability with practical experience. Doctoral programmes focus on psychology's applications in health and social issues.
Prominent researchers deliver teaching supported by collaborative partnerships with leading centres of excellence. The school's commitment to gender equality is recognised with the Athena Swan Silver Award. Located at Ulster University's Coleraine campus, it comprises 33 academics, including 9 professors, dedicated to advancing knowledge and benefiting society.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: Overall profile is at least 25 points (including 12 at higher level). A-level: BBC.
- International fee: £11,650
7. University of York
The Department of Psychology at the University of York, established in 1974, is a major research and teaching institution situated on the Heslington West Campus. With a faculty of 45 members and growing, supported by dedicated technical and administrative staff, the department has an active community of graduate students and post-doctoral fellows. The department prioritises research excellence by offering undergraduate programmes with an intake of approximately 260 students annually and three MSc courses catering to around 50 taught postgraduates.
Notably, the York Neuroimaging Centre (YNiC) provides cutting-edge research facilities for cognitive neuroscience studies. Led by award-winning researcher Peter Venables, the department emphasises the biological basis of psychology and behaviour, contributing to its recognition as a top ten institution for research excellence in the UK.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 36 points, including one Higher Level science subject, which may include Psychology.
- International fee: £28,800
8. King's College London
Since its establishment in 1950, Kings College London’s Department of Psychology has upheld a distinguished research, teaching, and clinical practice record, closely linked with the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. Merging with psychology sections from prestigious medical schools in 2004, it became one of the world's largest hubs for clinical and health psychologists.
Today, as part of the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, it offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including renowned clinical training courses supported by expert faculty and strong partnerships with NHS trusts.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 35 points, including 766 at Higher Level.
- International fee: £37,368
9. University of Exeter
The University of Exeter's Psychology department ranks among the top 75 worldwide, emphasising exceptional learning experiences, high-quality research, and advancement in psychological practice. With a supportive environment and renowned faculty leading innovative programmes, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and unique NHS collaborations.
The department has a stellar reputation, with 92% of research classified as world-leading or internationally excellent. Annual external research funding averages around £1.5 million, highlighting its significant contributions to advancing psychological knowledge and practice.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: A-Level- AAA. A*AA (with Professional Placement). A in a Science subject.
- International fee: £29,700
10. University College London
The UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, part of the Faculty of Brain Sciences, ranks fourth globally for psychology, leading UK universities in research power. Focusing on mind, behaviour, and language fosters a collaborative community of academics, researchers, students, and support staff.
A leader in interdisciplinary research and teaching, the department addresses pressing global challenges such as climate change and mental health. The last Research Excellence Framework produced world-leading and internationally excellent research, attracting top-class talent worldwide.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Psychology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 39 points. A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects to include grade 6 in one subject, but preferably two, from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology
- International fee: £37,500
Study Psychology in the UK
If you wish to study at the best university for psychology in the UK, arrange a free consultation in India today. Our UK university application experts will ensure your application is ready and submitted without any errors.
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