Applied Psychology

This programme is subject to validation

Applied Psychology: applying the science of behaviour in practice.

Psychology is a dynamic and versatile field, often serving as a ‘hub’ subject that addresses some of society’s most significant challenges. By systematically analysing and explaining behaviour, psychology contributes to solving real-world problems in areas such as education, health, and community services. With a strong link between theory and empirical data, the insights gained from psychological research can be applied across a wide range of professional contexts, making it a discipline that profoundly impacts experience, thought, and behaviour.

The BSc (Hons) Applied Psychology with Integrated Placement Year programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills that employers value. Throughout the course, students develop expertise in research methods, statistical literacy, evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, and professional communication. These transferable skills prepare graduates for a wide range of careers across sectors such as mental health services, social work, education, human resources, health services, community support services, and other public sector and organisational roles.
A key feature of the programme is the integrated placement year, which takes place between Year 2 and Year 3 of the course. This provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience and apply the knowledge and skills developed during their studies in professional settings. Through our strong partnerships with local employers and organisations, placement opportunities may include roles within local authority services, mental health and wellbeing services, youth justice services, community support projects, and education settings. This experience supports students in developing professional skills, building networks, and gaining insight into potential career pathways.

The degree provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in psychology and related disciplines, including MSc programmes such as Applied Psychology or Mental Health, and prepares graduates for a wide range of careers where an understanding of human behaviour is valuable. The programme follows the recommended curriculum of the British Psychological Society (BPS) but does not offer Graduate Membership (GMBPsS). Graduates wishing to obtain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society and progress towards professional psychology careers such as Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Educational Psychology, Counselling Psychology or Health Psychology would need to complete a psychology conversion Master’s degree before progressing to further specialist training. Graduates working within psychology-related roles may also apply for Associate Membership (AMBPsS) of the British Psychological Society.

Psychology at Grimsby is well established, with a long history of delivering psychology programmes and supporting graduates into a wide range of professional roles. Many of our graduates have progressed into careers both locally and nationally, including roles within mental health and wellbeing services, drug and alcohol services, local authority mental health and youth services, and education settings. We maintain strong links with local employers and organisations, which helps us provide students with valuable placement opportunities, voluntary experience, part-time work alongside their studies, and pathways into graduate employment.

Level 4
Study Skills
Introduction to Psychology
Individual Differences
Research Methods 1
Cognition
Anomalous Psychology
Neuroscience

Level 5
Cyberpsychology
Cognitive Psychology
Environmental Psychology
Developmental and Social Psychology
Research Methods 2
Mental Health
Biopsychology

Level 6 Core
Dissertation
Mental Health and Psychopathology

Level 6 Optional
Addiction
Health and Behaviour Change
Psychology of Work and Leadership
Forensic and Applied Criminal Psychology
Psychology of Wellbeing and Personal Growth
Mindset, Motivation and Sport Performance
Applied Developmental and Educational Psychology

Assessment on the programme is designed to support the development of both academic knowledge and practical skills, enabling students to demonstrate their understanding of psychological theory, research, and its application to real-world contexts. A range of assessment methods are used throughout the programme to allow students to develop and demonstrate key academic, analytical, and professional skills.

Students are assessed through a combination of written coursework, essays, reports, presentations, and research-based assignments. Written assessments provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding of psychological theories and concepts, critically evaluate research evidence, and apply psychological perspectives to contemporary issues. These assessments also help students develop skills in academic writing, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning.

Research methods and statistics modules include assessments that focus on the analysis and interpretation of data, the evaluation of research findings, and the communication of research outcomes. Students may complete research reports or data analysis tasks that require them to demonstrate their understanding of research design, statistical analysis, and the ethical conduct of psychological research.

Students also complete group work, including group presentations and collaborative research activities. These assessments provide opportunities for students to work together to collect data, develop research reports, and present psychological ideas and findings to an audience. This helps students develop teamwork, communication, and organisational skills that are important for both academic study and professional practice.

Students also undertake a work-related learning assignment, where they apply psychological theory and evidence to analyse behaviour within an environment that is familiar to them. This may include a current or previous workplace, a healthcare or community setting, or another everyday environment such as the home. Students produce a report that demonstrates their ability to apply psychological knowledge to real-life contexts.

As part of the placement year, students gain practical experience within a professional setting. Assessment during this year focuses on reflective learning and professional development, and students typically produce a portfolio that documents their experiences, skills development, and reflections on how psychological knowledge can be applied in professional contexts.

In the final stage of the programme, students complete a dissertation, in which they design and conduct an independent research study. This involves developing a research question, reviewing relevant literature, collecting data from participants, analysing findings, and presenting the results in a structured research report.

Overall, the range of assessment methods used across the programme supports the development of independent learning, critical thinking, and professional skills, preparing students for employment or further study in psychology and related fields.