BSc (Hons) Psychology with integrated Foundation (3-year degree)
Our BSc Psychology with foundation is designed for students who may need additional preparation prior to their undergraduate level psychology study.
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Course overview
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18 January 2025
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Jan 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Classic Studies in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Data Analysis in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Foundations in Biological Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Psychology: From Theory to Practice | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Biopsychosocial Aspects of Human Behaviour | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Positive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Psychological Processes | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Research Methods and Statistics | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Skills For Psychologists | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Biological Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Developmental Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Individual Differences | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Psychology of Emotion | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Qualitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Social Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Health Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Research Project | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Animal Behaviour | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Clinical Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Creative Performance and Expertise | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cyberpsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Educational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Forensic Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Occupational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Sports & Exercise Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
Sep 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Classic Studies in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Data Analysis in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Foundations in Biological Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Psychology: From Theory to Practice | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Biopsychosocial Aspects of Human Behaviour | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Positive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Psychological Processes | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Research Methods and Statistics | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Skills For Psychologists | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Biological Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Developmental Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Individual Differences | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Psychology of Emotion | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Qualitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Social Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Health Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Research Project | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Animal Behaviour | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Clinical Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Creative Performance and Expertise | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cyberpsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Educational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Forensic Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Occupational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Sports & Exercise Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
Jan 2026 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Classic Studies in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Data Analysis in Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Foundations in Biological Psychology | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Psychology: From Theory to Practice | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Biopsychosocial Aspects of Human Behaviour | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Positive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Psychological Processes | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Research Methods and Statistics | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Skills For Psychologists | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Biological Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Developmental Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Individual Differences | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Psychology of Emotion | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Qualitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods & Analysis in Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Social Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Health Psychology | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Research Project | Core | 30.00 | 6 |
| Animal Behaviour | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Clinical Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Creative Performance and Expertise | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Cyberpsychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Educational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Forensic Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Occupational Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Sports & Exercise Psychology | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
The three-year BSc (Hons) Psychology with foundation is designed for students who need additional preparation prior to the undergraduate level study. The first year of the programme is intended to provide a foundation in both knowledge and academic skills for the more specialist subjects in years two and three. When you apply for this programme, we will be able to advise whether this three-year (BA/BSc with integrated Foundation) option or our two-year Psychology degree is the best option for you.
As a student, you will learn core theory and have the opportunity to study the eight areas of practitioner psychology, enabling you to make an informed choice on your future career as a psychologist. In addition, we have modules in distinct areas of study such as creativity and cyberpsychology.
The BSc (Hons) Psychology with foundation programme at Buckingham has been designed to integrate the unique Buckingham tutorial teaching model into the teaching of psychological science. The programme is based on three core elements. First, covering the core theoretical content required for British Psychological Society accreditation meaning that the degree has both national and international recognition. Second, strong research methods and analysis skills embedded within the programme so that Buckingham graduates have begun to develop a range of highly employable skills.
Third, optional modules in all areas of practitioner psychology recognized by the BPS and HCPC as well as other areas of applied psychology so that graduates can make fully informed choices about their postgraduate pathway.
Entry Requirements
Typical offers
Applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9, including English and Maths, or their international equivalents. In addition, applicants must have one of the following qualifications or their international equivalents:
- A Levels with minimum grades of DD
- BTEC National Diploma with minimum grades of MPP
- Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to at least 48 UCAS points
International Applicants: We welcome equivalent qualifications from around the world. However, you must also demonstrate your English language proficiency by achieving an IELTS score of 6 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component, or another approved language test.
Home student/School leaver under 21
The standard entry requirements are DD at A-level, IB 25 or other equivalent alternative qualifications. Applicants should have satisfactory completion of grade 12 plus GCSE English and Maths at Grade C / Grade 4, or above, plus evidence of genuine intellectual capacity.
Mature Home student (over 21)
The age range of our student body varies from those who have recently completed A-levels (or equivalent) to more mature students. Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from mature students. Your experience in the world of work will be considered alongside any qualifications you hold.
International student
We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country. For countries not listed, we will use ECCTIS to establish the equivalence of your qualifications to entry requirements. A recognised formal English language test will be required.
English Language Requirements
If your first language is not English, you will also need an IELTS score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each component. (Other recognised English test are listed here https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/international/english-language-requirements). There may also be an interview assessment. If your English language level is below the entry requirements you will be expected to complete our pre-sessional English language programme. You do not need to apply separately for this programme, your offer will include the necessary pre-sessional English term(s).
The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.
Programme progression
Please note that the first nine months of this programme constitute the Foundation stage. Students are expected to pass in all the Foundation modules with an overall average of 60% in order to progress to the second year stage of the course.
UCAS applications
You may apply either through the national UCAS university admissions system or at any time directly to the University using our own online application form. Our UCAS code is B90.
Selection process
Each application is considered on its own merit. You may be invited for an informal interview. If you are an international student the informal interview will be held on Microsoft Teams.
Our Admissions Team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Call us on +44 (0)1280 820227 or get in touch via our contact form.
Student Contract for prospective students
When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the student contract between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the student contract in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the student contract contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting an offer. Read the Student Contract.
Teaching & Assessment
Quality teaching
We offer high quality teaching using our unique tutorial teaching model. Buckingham degrees are recognised around the world. You will have lectures with your whole cohort, seminars of varying sizes and weekly tutorials with a maximum of seven students in total.
High calibre staff
Our academic staff will teach three terms out of four, with the remaining term used for research and scholarly activity. Because of this, we have no difficulty in attracting high calibre, highly respected lecturers. University of Buckingham lecturers enjoy spending time with students because they all teach within our tutorial teaching model. It is also the philosophy of Buckingham’s staff to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Teaching methods
Teaching is carried out through a combination of lectures supported by seminars and tutorials. A key feature of the Buckingham teaching method is the use of small tutorial groups which provide the most effective means of ensuring that the students benefit from the academic expertise at their disposal. It is also the philosophy of Buckingham’s faculty to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Assessment methods
The assessment of individual modules within each course varies according to the subject. Assessment is usually by examination, assessed coursework, or a combination of the two. Please check module information for more details.
Preparation for work
All our degree courses combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. Many of our more vocationally-focused degrees offer the opportunity of work placements and experience in industry.
After Your Course
Graduate employment
Our graduates have gone on to further study at most of the world’s leading universities, including Harvard, London, Oxford and Cambridge and secured jobs in senior positions around the world. Among our alumni we have a graduate who became the head of his country’s civil service and one who became a leading Formula One motor-racing driver. Another secured a position as the Minister of Sabah and one female law graduate became the first British lawyer to become a French Advocate.
Fees & Scholarships
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | First Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £12,333 | £37,000 |
| INT | £19,733 | £59,200 | |
Sep 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 | |
Jan 2026 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £12,333 | £37,000 |
| INT | £19,733 | £59,200 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships & Bursaries
Details can be found on our main Bursaries and Scholarships page.
Accommodation
On-campus accommodation
We guarantee on-campus accommodation to all new students for their first four terms of study, as long as it is booked and paid for in good time, so you’re assured of a safe and secure home from home when you arrive at the University. Most new students choose this option.
Living on campus enables you to become involved in University activities, make friends, and integrate with the University community. For some of you this will be your first time in the UK; for others it will be the first time living away from home – and independence brings its challenges as well as its excitements. Whatever your circumstances, we know how important it is for you to feel comfortable in your accommodation.
What’s included?
All our study bedrooms are fully furnished, centrally heated, and connected to the internet. With few exceptions they have a wash basin and small refrigerator. We have a large number of ensuite rooms, and are upgrading more rooms each year. There are shared kitchens for when you wish to cook for yourself.
Find out more
If you’d like to find out more, visit our Accommodation pages or get in touch with our Accommodation Team.
We recommend that all prospective students visit our campus if they are able to, at one of our open days or a Campus Tour, campus tours include a typical student room.
How To Apply
We welcome applications in two different ways – directly via our online application form or through UCAS.
Apply directly
Apply online via our course pages:
- Most flexible option
- Apply until shortly before the course starts
- No application fees
- You can apply to us as an extra option alongside your UCAS choices
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘apply’ button at the bottom of the course page.
Apply via UCAS
You can easily make Buckingham one of your UCAS choices:
- You can apply to up to 5 choices
- The application and decision deadlines are set by UCAS
- There is an application fee to UCAS
Our UCAS code is B90.
If you’re interested in transferring to Buckingham from another university then please get in touch to talk through your options.