Education and PsychologyBSc
Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027/education-and-psychology-bsc Parent: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2027
2027-28 entry
Education and Psychology BSc
School of Education
Learn how education and psychology are deeply intertwined and master the science of human development and learning, all while building robust research skills. You’ll gain the ability to improve wellbeing and launch a meaningful career across diverse clinical, educational and community settings.
- A Levels \ ABB
- UCAS code \ C812
- Duration \ 3 years
- Start date \ September
-
Attendance \ Full-time
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad option
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Course description
Why study this course?
Learn how to apply theory to the real world and improve lives
Learn to apply psychological theory to understand how people learn and develop, gaining the skills to improve lives in educational, clinical and community settings.
Taught by experts
You will be taught by leading experts in the fields of education and psychology, as well as world-renowned innovators in research methods.
Get the skills to kickstart your career
Employability is embedded into the heart of the programme, with dedicated time to develop your skills and knowledge, and give you the edge in a competitive job market.
Develop the knowledge, understanding and experience to tackle the defining challenges of our time, including the mental health crises, educational inequality and the fight for social justice.
This course will empower you to move beyond the classroom and into the community, equipping you with the scientific insight to improve wellbeing for children, young people and adults, and to drive systemic change.
To solve complex problems faced by societies across the globe, you’ll need more than one perspective - our curriculum blends the scientific rigour of psychology with the critical depth of education. You'll explore how we think and learn, and why educational and social systems succeed or fail. You will also investigate how psychological insights can foster sustainable development and inclusive practices in a changing world.
From day one, you'll challenge the status quo. We don’t just teach you the 'what' - we push you to question 'why', 'how' and 'for whom'. You will explore the golden thread of equality, diversity and inclusion that runs through every module, examining how culture, history and philosophy shape our understanding of human behaviour.
You’ll develop a comprehensive knowledge of major theories, historical developments and current research across key areas of psychology and education. You will also gain advanced skills to systematically evaluate complex theories, design and conduct independent research projects, and apply theoretical knowledge to propose evidence-based solutions for real-world challenges.
In a complex professional landscape, you will stand out as someone who can translate deep theoretical knowledge into strategies for solving real-world problems.
Accreditation
Application for accreditation submitted to the British Psychological Society.
Modules
This is a new course. We’re in the process of confirming the modules. The information on this page gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover. There may be changes before you begin your studies. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details of the core and optional modules available to you.
Title: Education and Psychology BSc\ UCAS code: C812\ Years: 2027
First year
Second year
Third year
First year
Core modules:
What is Psychology? : This module will introduce you to the foundational principles of psychology as a scientific discipline, including its historical development, research methods, and ethical considerations. \ \ You will also explore alternative and contemporary perspectives within psychology, such as critical psychology, indigenous psychologies, and post-structuralist approaches, fostering a nuanced understanding of the field's diversity. \ \
**20 credits**
Unpacking Education : This module will introduce you to the core concepts and foundational theories of education as an academic field. You'll explore the historical evolution of educational thought, from ancient philosophies to contemporary approaches, and examine the sociological aspects of education, including its role in socialisation, inequality, and social change.\ \ The module also investigates the philosophical underpinnings of education, prompting you to consider different aims, values, and approaches to teaching and learning. By the end of the course, you'll be able to critically understand contemporary educational issues by placing them within their broader historical, sociological, and philosophical contexts.
**20 credits**
Unlocking Research : This module introduces you to the essential principles of research in education and psychology and shows how these ideas connect to real-life issues. You'll explore both qualitative and quantitative approaches—for example, how surveys can reveal patterns in student wellbeing or how classroom observations can shed light on teaching practices. Along the way, you'll gain practical skills in finding and evaluating academic sources, and learn how to apply ethical principles when working with people and sensitive topics. The module also highlights how research contributes to tackling global challenges such as inequality, climate change, and mental health through the lens of Education for Sustainable Development. By the end, you'll understand how research is not only about generating knowledge, but also about shaping positive change in society.
**20 credits**
Professional Skills for Education and Psychology : This employability module is designed to help you develop and apply key professional skills. The module is structured in three phases: Foundational Skills, Application and Exploration, and Integration and Future Planning.\ \ The first three weeks focus on foundational skills - core, transferable skills essential for any profession. Topics covered include self-awareness and goal setting, where you will complete a SWOT analysis and create a personal mission statement. The module also emphasizes communication and collaboration as well as problem-solving and critical thinking using structured models to produce solutions to case-studies.\ \ The module then transitions from theory to practice, helping you apply foundational skills in real-world contexts relevant to education and psychology. The content includes an exploration of professional boundaries, confidentiality, and ethical codes. You will participate in a 'mock ethics committee' activity to debate challenging ethical dilemmas. To connect students with the professional world, the module features a guest speaker series with professionals from diverse fields. The final part of this phase includes a mock interview session to practice different interview techniques.\ \ The final part of the module brings all the elements together, encouraging you to think about your career pathway and take concrete steps toward your goals. The key component of this section is a real-world, project-based learning challenge. The module concludes with a final group presentation of the project. You will also review your personal development throughout the course and create a tangible action plan for your future.
**20 credits**
Mind, Metrics and More : This module will introduce you to the core psychological concepts of personality and intelligence. You'll get an overview of different approaches to psychological assessment, including psychometrics and IQ testing, while also critically examining their historical context, development, and limitations. The course will address critical perspectives on individual differences, including issues of bias, cultural relevance, and social justice. Finally, you will explore the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and consider how an understanding of individual differences can help inform the creation of more inclusive and equitable educational and social systems.
**20 credits**
Development across the lifespan : This module provides an in-depth exploration of human development from a combined psychological and educational viewpoint, spanning from childhood through to old age. It integrates key theories and research from developmental psychology with an understanding of educational contexts and practices across the lifespan. The module will examine the biological, cognitive, and socio-emotional changes that occur throughout life, considering how these changes are influenced by and, in turn, influence learning, teaching, and educational policy.
**20 credits**
Second year
Core modules:
Psychology and Learning Communities : This module explores learning as conceptualised by different approaches within the broad umbrella of psychology. It examines how and why these different approaches emerged, how they compare to one another, and how they have come to inform different understandings of what learning is, how it happens and how it might be facilitated. It also explores how these different conceptualisations have come to impact individual learners, and particular learning communities. Critical attention is drawn to the way in which language facilitates social practices including those involved in the construction of different kinds of knowledge. In this sense, knowledge relates to formal conceptualisations of learning provided by developments in scientific disciplines (e.g. psychology) and the social sciences (e.g. education and sociology). It is also concerned with informal understandings such as the continual constitution of learner's identities through social engagement. The module aims to challenge notions of learning as an individual enterprise and to support students in critical reflection upon their own learning experiences in connection to the approaches discussed.
**20 credits**
Research Toolkit for Education and Psychology : This module is designed to develop your understanding of fundamental research techniques in education and psychology, covering both quantitative and qualitative approaches. You will learn the principles of statistics necessary to analyze and interpret data. The course also explores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in research, focusing on its use in data processing and analysis while addressing important ethical implications and potential biases.\ \ You will also be introduced to participatory methods, highlighting collaborative approaches and the importance of community and participant voice in research. By the end of the module, you'll be equipped with the practical skills to conduct basic studies and analyze data. The module will integrate Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles by showing how these research methods can be applied to study and promote sustainable behaviors and societal change.
**20 credits**
The Social Self : This module will introduce you to core theories and research in Social Psychology, focusing on how people think about, influence, and relate to one another. You'll examine key phenomena such as attitudes, stereotypes, prejudice, group dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. You will also explore the Sociology of Education and how this intersects with these psychological phenomena.\ \ The module will consider interaction in education and will explore how diverse social and cultural contexts influence human interaction. It will also develop your ability to critically analyze social behavior and its implications in real-world and online settings. Finally, the module integrates Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles by showing how social psychology can be used to inform interventions that promote pro-social and sustainable behaviors, address social inequalities, and encourage collective action for global challenges.
**20 credits**
Pathways to Adulthood : This module will deepen your understanding of developmental psychology, focusing on diverse pathways across the entire lifespan. You will explore major theories and research methods, including longitudinal and cross-sectional approaches. The module examines how biological, cognitive, and socio-cultural factors influence development, and considers the impact of diverse cultural contexts on developmental theories. You will also explore how theoretical knowledge influences educational practices/systems e.g. how does our understanding of developmental psychology underpin (or not) education systems.\ \ The course also addresses the complexities of atypical development and both developmental and acquired disorders, fostering a more inclusive understanding. Finally, you will explore Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles by considering how developmental principles can be used to create resilient, equitable, and sustainable communities, particularly for children and future generations.
**20 credits**
Neuroscience Explained: Brain Behaviour and Genes : This module provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of biological psychology and neuroscience, exploring the relationship between brain structure, function, and behavior. You will examine the basic anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, from individual neurons to major brain regions. The course also explores the biological underpinnings of key psychological processes such as sensation, perception, learning, memory, and emotion.\ \ You will be introduced to the role of genetics in shaping brain development and behavior, which lays a foundation for understanding individual differences. The module also fosters a critical understanding of research methods used in biological psychology and neuroscience, including neuroimaging techniques. Finally, it integrates Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles by considering the responsible use of neuroscience and genetic knowledge for human well-being and by critically examining historical and cultural biases in neuroscience research.
**20 credits**
It's All In The Mind : This module will introduce you to the core theories and findings of cognitive psychology, focusing on fundamental mental processes. You will explore the psychological mechanisms behind perception, examining how sensory information is organized and interpreted. The module also delves into the multifaceted nature of memory, from encoding to retrieval, and investigates different forms of learning, including classical and operant conditioning. In addition you will explore sociocultural theories and perspectives that view cognition as a collaborative process.\ \ You will develop the ability to critically evaluate cognitive models and research methodologies, particularly experimental design. The module integrates principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) by exploring how understanding cognitive processes can inform effective communication about sustainability and promote learning for behavioral change. It also encourages a critical examination of how cognitive theories have been influenced by Western perspectives and explores how diverse cultural contexts may influence these processes.
**20 credits**
Third year
Core: - Research Dissemination in the Social Sciences - Perspectives on Mental Health and Wellbeing - Dissertation in Psychology and Education Optional: - Reading Development and Disorders - What is Learning? - Evaluating Complex Interventions - Globalising Education
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You’ll learn through a diverse range of teaching methods. This will help you develop into a confident, independent researcher and professional.
You will acquire foundational knowledge in lectures, and engage with core content and cutting-edge research delivered by experts. Your theoretical understanding will be challenged in seminars, which are designed for in-depth discussion, critical analysis of core topics and group problem solving. You will develop your critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills.
Practical sessions will give you hands-on training in research techniques, statistical software and quantitative/qualitative data analysis. This allows you to acquire the technical proficiency needed to conduct rigorous research, and develop both academic theory and highly valued professional skills.
Throughout your studies, key academic and employability skills are embedded across all modules. You'll be supported through regular feedback designed to help you build on your knowledge and achieve your full potential. We connect the curriculum directly to the professional world through our programme of guest speakers, giving you unique access to professional insights that significantly expand your career awareness.
Independent study will develop your self-reliance and time management skills. In your final year you'll have dedicated one-to-one supervision for your independent research project. Individual mentoring ensures you have the support needed to fully demonstrate your capacity to become an outstanding, independent researcher, ready for your next step.
We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.
Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.
Learning support facilities and library opening hours
You will be taught by world-leading experts in education and psychology, whose research spans vital areas from educational and child psychology to disability studies and digital literacies. Our academics are active researchers and innovators. This ensures that your learning is informed by the very latest discoveries and critical thinking in the field.
Assessment
You will complete a range of assessments such as essays, reports, presentations, creation of non-academic materials, to ensure you gain both deep knowledge and a robust portfolio of transferable skills essential for career success.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
- Standard offer
- Access Sheffield offer
Standard offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ ABB
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : BBB + A in the EPQ; BBB + B in Core Maths
International Baccalaureate : 33; 32, with B in the Extended Essay
BTEC Extended Diploma : DDD
BTEC Diploma : DD + B at A Level
Scottish Highers : AAABB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + AB
Access to HE Diploma : The award of the Access to HE Diploma in Social Sciences, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
Other requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 4/C
Access Sheffield offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ BBB
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : BBB + A in the EPQ; BBB + B in Core Maths
International Baccalaureate : 32
BTEC Extended Diploma : DDM
BTEC Diploma : DD + B at A Level
Scottish Highers : AABBB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + BB
Access to HE Diploma : The award of the Access to HE Diploma in Social Sciences, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction and 21 at Merit
Other requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 4/C
English language requirements |
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
Pathway programme for international students
If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Graduate careers
Your degree is a gateway to a diverse range of rewarding professions. Because you will graduate with a deep understanding of human behavior and development, you will be uniquely positioned for careers that make a tangible difference in people's lives.
As one of our graduates, you could pursue a range of careers including Educational and Clinical Psychology, Primary Teaching, Research, or Consultancy. You could also leverage your transferable skills to thrive in the corporate world. While specialised pathways like Chartered Psychology require further study, this programme provides the robust academic foundation and competitive edge you need to succeed at the postgraduate level.
You’ll also develop the Sheffield Graduate Attributes - a combination of academic, personal and professional skills designed to support your learning, wellbeing and future career success.
Education and Psychology are two of the most powerful tools we have for societal change. By bringing them together in our BSc Education and Psychology BSc, we are equipping you with a versatile skill set that is in high demand. Whether your ambition is to support child development, shape policy, or innovate in the classroom, this programme gives you the foundation to make a tangible difference.
Dr Anna Weighall
Programme Lead
School of Education
Joint 1st in the UK for education research impact
Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF2021)
We're proud to welcome a vibrant and diverse community, with students based locally, nationally and internationally. Our research has a direct impact on educational theory, policy and practice; we're supporting the development of children, families, schools and learning communities.
Our team of tutors at the School of Education comprises of experts in early childhood education, policy and practice, psychological theory of education, and languages and education. Many of our academic staff are internationally recognised in their specialist areas.
University rankings
A world top-100 university\ QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)\ National Student Survey 2025
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent\ Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year for Student Experience\ The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Number one Students' Union in the UK\ Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union\ StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards
20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26\ High Fliers 2026
Student profiles
Explore student profiles in the School of Education.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Examples of what’s included and excluded
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
£2,500 per year scholarships for international students
We're offering automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000 to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.
Placements and study abroad
Placement
You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year.
A placement year will help you to:
- gain an insight into possible careers
- develop a range of transferable skills
- build a professional network
- get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
- add valuable work experience to your CV
- gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
- apply elements of academic learning in the workplace
Study abroad
Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.
You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Contact us
Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.
Contacts for prospective students
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer
2027-2028
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Learn how education and psychology are deeply intertwined and master the science of human development and learning, all while building robust research skills. You’ll gain the ability to improve wellbeing and launch a meaningful career across diverse clinical, educational and community settings.
No No No No Course description Modules Learning and assessment Entry requirements Graduate careers Department University rankings Student profiles Fees and funding Placements and study abroad Extra info box