iBSc Psychology

About the course

The course is made up of 120 credits in total: six 15-credit modules and a 30-credit research project. The six optional modules are at Third Year level. A large range of third year modules are available, details of which are provided in advance of the early module registration period.

The research project can usually be carried out in one of the department's laboratories or outside - for example, in a hospital ward or clinic (where in-person data collection is not possible, online alternatives are provided). Each module, apart from the research project, is usually taught in 15 lectures . One hour each week is spent in seminars with other intercalating students. Much of the remaining time is spent following up reading suggested in lectures, in writing essays and in preparing, conducting and analysing the research project.

Every module that students attend will have clearly stated aims and objectives. These will be given with the lecture synopsis and reading lists that accompany the module. The reading lists will distinguish strongly recommended items from those which give background information.

Course structure

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and material in a virtual learning environment. Some modules also involve workshops or practical classes. Typically, each module involves a weekly lecture of one or two hours . You will have one seminar with around 8-9 other students each week, at which you can discuss developments in Psychology and topics covered on the course with an academic. These seminars are not linked to any lectures.

Modules

All modules are optional iBSc students required to choose six for their programme of study. The IBSc tutor will be able to advise on whether a given selection is appropriate. 

Each module is worth 15 credits. 

An example of modules offered (from 2025-26) is given below:

• Social Psychology
• Psychology and Education
• Topics in Clinical Psychology
• Organisational Psychology
• Social Psychology of Risk
• Topics in Developmental Psychology
• Applied Decision Making
• Speech
• Human Learning and Memory
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Brain in Action
• Genes and Behaviour
• Stuttering
• Behaviour Change
• Psychology of Climate Change

Research Project (30 credits)

This is a piece of empirical/experimental research or computer modelling exercise on any broadly psychological topic. The division has teaching staff able to supervise projects in most areas of psychology, so a wide choice of topics is possible. Subjects studied in the past include post traumatic stress disorder, colour-blindness, effects of exercise on mood, satisfaction with obstetric care, dyslexia and complementary medicine, and neural mechanisms of memory.

A list of possible projects will be provided in the induction (usually in May). For some online statistics support that you may find helpful view the Online Stats Book.

Assessment

A range of assessment methods is usually used, including exams, coursework, and project reports. Each module is assessed and examined separately in the same academic year in which you take it.

Careers

The Integrated BSc course aims to introduce students to a wide range of areas in psychological science and give them an understanding of what psychological science can contribute to the theory and practice of medicine. Students will also have the opportunity to gain a range of transferable skills such as an understanding of research methods, ability to express ideas in writing and oral presentations and the ability to effectively find and organise information.

Destinations

Students on the iBSc Psychology are expected to continue their MBBS training to pursue a career in Medicine.

Essential course information

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Brain Sciences

Location: London, Bloomsbury

Contact hours: Typical timetabled contact hours for this iBSc course are approximately 7 hours per week during term time, consisting of 5 hours of lectures, 1 hour of small-group tutorial teaching, and 1 hour of project supervision. In addition, students are expected to undertake independent study throughout the year to support their learning and final project.