STUDY
| Course options: | Professional Placement, Study Abroad |
|---|---|
| Institution code: | S82 |
| UCAS code: | CB89 |
| Start date: | September 2026 |
| Duration: | Three years full-time. |
| Location: | Ipswich |
| Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level). |
| Course options: | Professional Placement, Study Abroad |
|---|---|
| Institution code: | S82 |
| UCAS code: | CB89 |
| Start date: | September 2026 |
| Duration: | Three years full-time. |
|---|---|
| Location: | Ipswich |
| Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level). |
Overview
Psychology enables you to study the workings of the human mind and how this is revealed in human behaviour, both consciously and unconsciously. As a psychology student, you will be introduced to psychological theories and will learn to critically evaluate them so that you can reach your own well-informed conclusions about the nature and origins of human and non-human behaviour. Counselling is the process of assisting someone to resolve psychological issues or difficulties, so understanding why humans behave as they do is critical to the efficacy of any intervention.
You’ll have access to excellent facilities and equipment. We have recently invested £320k in new hardware and software for our psychology laboratories and we also have a laboratory in the new £13m state-of-the-art Health and Wellbeing Building officially opened in June 2023.
Studying psychology enables you to develop a diverse range of transferable skills which are valued highly by employers. We are proud to be ranked 1st in the UK for graduates in career 15 months after graduation for Psychology (Guardian University Guide, 2023).
On this course, you will be equipped with a thorough grounding in each of the major fields in psychology: social psychology; developmental psychology; biological psychology; and cognitive psychology. In addition, you will explore abnormal psychology, contemporary and historic issues in psychology and individual differences. This will be underpinned by thorough training in research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, and exploration of the scientific method. You will be encouraged to evaluate a range of theories and research evidence, helping you to become a critical thinker whilst encouraging you to reach your own informed conclusions. In addition, you will also explore the skills required to be a counsellor, the use of theory in a counselling context, humanistic and psychodynamic perspectives, and will have an introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) which means that on successful completion of your degree, you will be eligible for graduate based chartership (GBC) of the BPS. GBC of the BPS is a mandatory requirement for access to practitioner psychology training programmes including postgraduate clinical and counselling psychology courses. The BSc Psychology and Counselling degree does not confer a counselling qualification but provides the foundational knowledge and skills for further study, including our MSc in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Counselling, that can help build a career in counselling as well as other professions in health care, social care and industry.
Placement year and study abroad options
Students on this course have the option of adding an additional year as either a Placement Year or Study Abroad. The University encourages all students to enhance their employability with professional experience. Opportunities to study abroad will be discussed with interested students once on the course and are subject to the availability of spaces with international partners.
Further information about the University's relationship with the British Psychological Society (BPS) is available in the PSRB register.

Psychology at the University of Suffolk
Course Modules
Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' - more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.
Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.
Psychological Research and Skills introduces you to the core methods and academic skills that underpin successful study in psychology. The module explores both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, examining how studies are designed, conducted and interpreted, alongside key ethical considerations. You will develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated and evaluated, building confidence in engaging with research literature. Alongside this, the module supports the development of essential academic skills, including critical thinking, academic writing, referencing and independent learning. By integrating research training with study skills, you gain essential research and analytical skills to progress confidently through the degree.
Psychological Approaches introduces you to the core perspectives that underpin the study of mind and behaviour. Bringing together biological, cognitive, social and developmental approaches, the module provides a holistic foundation for understanding how psychologists explain human thought and action. You will explore the key theories, concepts and research associated with each perspective, as well as their historical development and ongoing influence within the discipline. The module also highlights the diversity of psychological approaches, encouraging students to consider how different perspectives offer complementary or competing explanations. By engaging with both classic and contemporary research, you will develop the ability to evaluate evidence critically providing essential knowledge for further study in psychology.
Foundations of Counselling Theory introduces you to the major theoretical approaches underpinning counselling, including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, and transactional frameworks. The module explores the principles, concepts, and methodologies within these approaches and examines how they inform understanding of the therapeutic relationship. You will develop critical awareness of key ideas such as self-concept, ego states, transference, and cognition-emotion-behaviour interactions. Through analysis and discussion, you evaluate the theoretical foundations of counselling and their implications for professional understanding, developing the ability to articulate the relationship between theory and counselling concepts. The module provides a comprehensive introduction to the intellectual frameworks of counselling, enabling you to understand and critically assess how different theoretical models shape the study of human behaviour, relationships, and psychological wellbeing.
Professional and Reflective Practice in Counselling examines the key ethical, legal, and professional dimensions of the counselling profession. The module focuses on understanding frameworks such as professional codes of ethics, safeguarding, and relevant legislation, and considers how societal values, diversity, and difference shape professional discourse. You reflect on your own perspectives, values, and emotional responses to develop critical insight into professional roles and responsibilities. Through analysis of case studies, professional debates, and contemporary issues in counselling, you explore challenges and complexities within the profession. The module emphasises the development of analytical, reflective, and interpersonal skills relevant to understanding the counselling field, equipping you with a theoretical and ethical foundation for studying professional roles and the broader social, cultural, and organisational contexts of counselling.
Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.
This module applies the principles of biological and cognitive psychology to quantitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as memory, perception, emotion, language, and decision-making, while developing practical skills in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Emphasis is placed on ethical research practice, reliability and validity, and the interpretation of findings using statistical software. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied quantitative methods, you gain the skills to design, conduct, and report quantitative studies, critically evaluate methods and findings, and communicate results in line with professional scientific standards.
This module applies social and developmental psychology to qualitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as social influence, stereotyping, aggression, life-span development, and developmental social psychology. Emphasis is placed on qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, visual data, and social media analysis, alongside ethical and reflexive considerations. You gain practical experience using analytical software to interpret data, and develop skills in designing, conducting, and reporting research. By integrating theory with applied qualitative methods, the module equips you to critically evaluate evidence, communicate findings effectively, and undertake rigorous research in social and developmental psychology.
Psychodynamic Perspectives in Counselling examines the psychodynamic approach to understanding human behaviour and emotional life, emphasising the influence of early formative experiences. Building on foundational counselling theory, the module explores key concepts from Attachment Theory, the British Object Relations School, and post-Freudian psychodynamic thinkers. You critically analyse how unconscious processes, relational patterns, and developmental experiences shape emotional responses, personality, and interpersonal dynamics. The module encourages reflection on the self and personal perspectives, fostering insight into the complexity, ambiguity, and limits of psychodynamic knowledge. Through theoretical analysis, case studies, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate psychodynamic concepts, communicate key ideas effectively, and integrate diverse psychodynamic perspectives into a coherent conceptual understanding of human behaviour and psychological development.
Humanistic Perspectives in Counselling explores the humanistic tradition in counselling, examining major theoretical approaches and their contributions to understanding human experience and relational dynamics. Building on foundational counselling theory, the module focuses on concepts such as self-actualisation, personal growth, and transpersonal consciousness, alongside the development of relational and interpersonal understanding. You critically analyse how humanistic ideas inform perspectives on emotional life, personality development, and the formation of meaning. Reflection on self and others is encouraged to deepen theoretical insight and foster a nuanced appreciation of human behaviour. Through engagement with case studies, theoretical debates, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate key humanistic concepts, consider their epistemological limits, and communicate complex ideas effectively within a coherent conceptual framework.
Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.
Psychology Project enables you to plan, conduct, and report an independent empirical research project, integrating the skills and knowledge gained from previous modules. The module develops advanced competence in research design, methodology, data analysis, and ethical practice, while fostering autonomy, project management, and critical reflection. You communicate your findings through a structured research report and a poster presentation, building professional and transferable skills in scientific communication. By undertaking a substantial project, you enhance your ability to formulate research questions, synthesise literature, select appropriate methods, analyse data rigorously, and evaluate findings in the context of theory and practice, preparing them for postgraduate study and research-focused careers.
Pathways to Psychopathology introduces you to the theories, research, and assessment methods used to understand and classify human characteristics and behaviour. The module critically examines the distinction between “normal” and “abnormal” traits, exploring historical and contemporary perspectives on the origins of psychopathology, individual differences, and the effectiveness of specific interventions. You engage with psychometric testing, theoretical paradigms, and research evidence to evaluate how human behaviour is conceptualised, measured, and applied in real-world contexts. Through critical reflection, you develop the ability to analyse and interpret theoretical and empirical developments, considering the ethical, scientific, and practical implications for individuals and society.
Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy provides an in-depth exploration of the theoretical foundations and conceptual frameworks that underpin CBT. The module examines the relationship between cognition, behaviour, emotion, and context in understanding psychological distress and human experience. You critically analyse the historical development of CBT, key cognitive and behavioural models, and the scientific evidence supporting its principles. The module also considers contemporary debates and adaptations within the field, encouraging you to reflect on how theory informs conceptual understanding rather than direct therapeutic application. Through engagement with theoretical texts, case studies, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate and communicate core CBT concepts, critically discuss the assumptions and limitations of different models, and integrate these perspectives to enhance insight into human psychological functioning.
Issues in the Counselling Room explores key theoretical, ethical, and professional issues within counselling, building on the conceptual foundations developed earlier within the degree. The module encourages you to critically reflect on human behaviour, psychological functioning, and the role of individual difference in relational contexts. It examines ethical dilemmas, professional responsibilities, and the significance of self-awareness and reflexivity in understanding relationships and human interactions. Through engagement with case studies, reflective exercises, and critical evaluation of theoretical frameworks, you develop the ability to analyse complex scenarios, interpret patterns of human experience, and discuss ethical and professional considerations. The module emphasises the integration of theory and reflection to enhance insight into human behaviour and interpersonal dynamics.
Course Modules
Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' - more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.
Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.
Psychological Research and Skills introduces you to the core methods and academic skills that underpin successful study in psychology. The module explores both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, examining how studies are designed, conducted and interpreted, alongside key ethical considerations. You will develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated and evaluated, building confidence in engaging with research literature. Alongside this, the module supports the development of essential academic skills, including critical thinking, academic writing, referencing and independent learning. By integrating research training with study skills, you gain essential research and analytical skills to progress confidently through the degree.
Psychological Approaches introduces you to the core perspectives that underpin the study of mind and behaviour. Bringing together biological, cognitive, social and developmental approaches, the module provides a holistic foundation for understanding how psychologists explain human thought and action. You will explore the key theories, concepts and research associated with each perspective, as well as their historical development and ongoing influence within the discipline. The module also highlights the diversity of psychological approaches, encouraging students to consider how different perspectives offer complementary or competing explanations. By engaging with both classic and contemporary research, you will develop the ability to evaluate evidence critically providing essential knowledge for further study in psychology.
Foundations of Counselling Theory introduces you to the major theoretical approaches underpinning counselling, including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, and transactional frameworks. The module explores the principles, concepts, and methodologies within these approaches and examines how they inform understanding of the therapeutic relationship. You will develop critical awareness of key ideas such as self-concept, ego states, transference, and cognition-emotion-behaviour interactions. Through analysis and discussion, you evaluate the theoretical foundations of counselling and their implications for professional understanding, developing the ability to articulate the relationship between theory and counselling concepts. The module provides a comprehensive introduction to the intellectual frameworks of counselling, enabling you to understand and critically assess how different theoretical models shape the study of human behaviour, relationships, and psychological wellbeing.
Professional and Reflective Practice in Counselling examines the key ethical, legal, and professional dimensions of the counselling profession. The module focuses on understanding frameworks such as professional codes of ethics, safeguarding, and relevant legislation, and considers how societal values, diversity, and difference shape professional discourse. You reflect on your own perspectives, values, and emotional responses to develop critical insight into professional roles and responsibilities. Through analysis of case studies, professional debates, and contemporary issues in counselling, you explore challenges and complexities within the profession. The module emphasises the development of analytical, reflective, and interpersonal skills relevant to understanding the counselling field, equipping you with a theoretical and ethical foundation for studying professional roles and the broader social, cultural, and organisational contexts of counselling.
Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.
This module applies the principles of biological and cognitive psychology to quantitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as memory, perception, emotion, language, and decision-making, while developing practical skills in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Emphasis is placed on ethical research practice, reliability and validity, and the interpretation of findings using statistical software. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied quantitative methods, you gain the skills to design, conduct, and report quantitative studies, critically evaluate methods and findings, and communicate results in line with professional scientific standards.
This module applies social and developmental psychology to qualitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as social influence, stereotyping, aggression, life-span development, and developmental social psychology. Emphasis is placed on qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, visual data, and social media analysis, alongside ethical and reflexive considerations. You gain practical experience using analytical software to interpret data, and develop skills in designing, conducting, and reporting research. By integrating theory with applied qualitative methods, the module equips you to critically evaluate evidence, communicate findings effectively, and undertake rigorous research in social and developmental psychology
Psychodynamic Perspectives in Counselling examines the psychodynamic approach to understanding human behaviour and emotional life, emphasising the influence of early formative experiences. Building on foundational counselling theory, the module explores key concepts from Attachment Theory, the British Object Relations School, and post-Freudian psychodynamic thinkers. You critically analyse how unconscious processes, relational patterns, and developmental experiences shape emotional responses, personality, and interpersonal dynamics. The module encourages reflection on the self and personal perspectives, fostering insight into the complexity, ambiguity, and limits of psychodynamic knowledge. Through theoretical analysis, case studies, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate psychodynamic concepts, communicate key ideas effectively, and integrate diverse psychodynamic perspectives into a coherent conceptual understanding of human behaviour and psychological development.
Humanistic Perspectives in Counselling explores the humanistic tradition in counselling, examining major theoretical approaches and their contributions to understanding human experience and relational dynamics. Building on foundational counselling theory, the module focuses on concepts such as self-actualisation, personal growth, and transpersonal consciousness, alongside the development of relational and interpersonal understanding. You critically analyse how humanistic ideas inform perspectives on emotional life, personality development, and the formation of meaning. Reflection on self and others is encouraged to deepen theoretical insight and foster a nuanced appreciation of human behaviour. Through engagement with case studies, theoretical debates, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate key humanistic concepts, consider their epistemological limits, and communicate complex ideas effectively within a coherent conceptual framework.
Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.
Psychology Project enables you to plan, conduct, and report an independent empirical research project, integrating the skills and knowledge gained from previous modules. The module develops advanced competence in research design, methodology, data analysis, and ethical practice, while fostering autonomy, project management, and critical reflection. You communicate your findings through a structured research report and a poster presentation, building professional and transferable skills in scientific communication. By undertaking a substantial project, you enhance your ability to formulate research questions, synthesise literature, select appropriate methods, analyse data rigorously, and evaluate findings in the context of theory and practice, preparing them for postgraduate study and research-focused careers.
Pathways to Psychopathology introduces you to the theories, research, and assessment methods used to understand and classify human characteristics and behaviour. The module critically examines the distinction between “normal” and “abnormal” traits, exploring historical and contemporary perspectives on the origins of psychopathology, individual differences, and the effectiveness of specific interventions. You engage with psychometric testing, theoretical paradigms, and research evidence to evaluate how human behaviour is conceptualised, measured, and applied in real-world contexts. Through critical reflection, you develop the ability to analyse and interpret theoretical and empirical developments, considering the ethical, scientific, and practical implications for individuals and society.
Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy provides an in-depth exploration of the theoretical foundations and conceptual frameworks that underpin CBT. The module examines the relationship between cognition, behaviour, emotion, and context in understanding psychological distress and human experience. You critically analyse the historical development of CBT, key cognitive and behavioural models, and the scientific evidence supporting its principles. The module also considers contemporary debates and adaptations within the field, encouraging you to reflect on how theory informs conceptual understanding rather than direct therapeutic application. Through engagement with theoretical texts, case studies, and reflective exercises, you develop the ability to evaluate and communicate core CBT concepts, critically discuss the assumptions and limitations of different models, and integrate these perspectives to enhance insight into human psychological functioning.
Issues in the Counselling Room explores key theoretical, ethical, and professional issues within counselling, building on the conceptual foundations developed earlier within the degree. The module encourages you to critically reflect on human behaviour, psychological functioning, and the role of individual difference in relational contexts. It examines ethical dilemmas, professional responsibilities, and the significance of self-awareness and reflexivity in understanding relationships and human interactions. Through engagement with case studies, reflective exercises, and critical evaluation of theoretical frameworks, you develop the ability to analyse complex scenarios, interpret patterns of human experience, and discuss ethical and professional considerations. The module emphasises the integration of theory and reflection to enhance insight into human behaviour and interpersonal dynamics.
WHY SUFFOLK
1st University of the Year
WhatUni Student Choice Awards 20252nd Teaching Satisfaction
Guardian University Guide 20262nd Student Experience
Good University Guide
Entry Requirements
Career Opportunities
There are many opportunities open to psychology degree holders including, and not limited to:
- Psychologist
- Psychotherapist
- Social Worker
- Counsellor
- Educational Psychologist
- Human Resource Manager
- Teacher
- Research roles
- Media roles
Graduates combining psychology and counselling are well placed to pursue careers in mental health and therapeutic settings. Potential roles include:
- Counsellor (working in schools, clinics, or private practice)
- Psychotherapist
- Mental health support worker
- Wellbeing or wellness coordinator
- Guidance advisor or career counsellor
- Specialist roles in addictions, trauma, or bereavement support
- Community support worker in voluntary or charity sectors
These roles benefit from strong interpersonal, communication, and reflective skills developed throughout the degree, and many will require additional professional training or accreditation.
Our Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team are here to support you, not only whilst you complete your studies, but after you graduate and beyond.
To find out more about our range of services and support, please visit our Careers, Employability and Enterprise page.
Facilities and Resources
Whatever you choose to study, you will learn in state-of-the-art surroundings. We have invested across the University to create an environment showcasing the latest teaching facilities enabling you to achieve great things.
We have recently invested £320k in new hardware and software for our psychology laboratories which includes new electroencephalography (EEG) and eye tracking equipment. In our new larger laboratory, we have laptops for student use that have all the software installed that psychologists would use to investigate human behaviour.
Teaching takes place in our new laboratory and in other lecture rooms across campus. All of our research methods seminars are supported in an IT room, encouraging students to have hands-on practical experience of research design, data collection, data analysis and report writing whilst being supported by an academic.