Psychology

The University of St Andrews offers a comprehensive and highly regarded undergraduate degree in Psychology designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical research skills, enabling students to understand the biological, cognitive, social, and developmental aspects of psychology. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics, including cognition, perception, learning, memory, social behavior, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience, among others. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific literacy, preparing graduates for diverse careers in psychology, research, healthcare, education, or further postgraduate study.

Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research projects, gaining valuable experience in designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. The programme emphasizes an evidence-based approach, encouraging students to critically evaluate psychological theories and studies. Small class sizes and close interaction with expert faculty members foster a supportive learning environment that promotes academic growth and inquiry. Additionally, students can benefit from access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources, including laboratories and psychological assessment tools.

The course is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning through optional modules and research projects aligned with their interests. Graduates of the Psychology programme at St Andrews are well-equipped to pursue careers in clinical practice, counseling, academic research, human resources, marketing, and other fields where understanding human behavior is vital. Alternatively, many students choose to continue their education at postgraduate levels, undertaking master's or doctoral studies to specialize further in areas such as clinical psychology, neuroscience, or cognitive science. Overall, the programme aims to develop knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically responsible psychologists who can contribute meaningfully to society and the advancement of psychological science.

• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Research Design and Analysis 1
• Research Design and Analysis 2
• Conceptual Issues and Theoretical Perspectives
• Assessment in Clinical Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience
• Evolutionary and Comparative Psychology
• Perception 
• Cognition 
• Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology
• Psychology Review
• Psychology Project
• Review Essay
• Group Behaviour
• Behavioural Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology and the Emotional Disorders
• Sex Differences and Gender Development
• Psychology of Music
• Psychology of Art: Aesthetics and Individual Differences in Visual Function
• Origins and Evolution of Mind Reading (Theory of Mind)
• Face Perception and Human Attraction
• The Psychology of Dementia
• Communicating Psychology and Neuroscience
• Psychopathology 
• Mechanisms of Behaviour: integrating psychological and neuroscience perspectives
• The Psychology of Terrorism
• Selves and Identities
• Psychology Project 
• Joint Project

Requirements

If you have graduated from high school in Russia with a national school leaving certificate (Certificate of Secondary (Complete) General Education Attestat o Srednem (Polnom) Obshchem Obrazovanii), we would also expect you to have one of the following:

• A recognised foundation programme certificate. The University's Centre for International Foundation Programmes (CIFP) offers a range of programmes providing an excellent preparation for undergraduate academic study and we welcome students with strong Attestat scores.  Find out more about taking a foundation programme at the University of St Andrews.
• At least 3 A Levels
• An IB Diploma
• At least 5 'Group A' advanced placement subjects

If you are studying a foreign language qualification and you wish this to be considered, it should be in a language that is foreign to you and should not be in your first language. You should indicate in your personal statement that the foreign language qualification you are studying is not your first language. If this is not the case your application may be considered less competitive.

• IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component
• TOEFL (IBT) 92 overall with at least 20 in all components
• Pay the required £50 (50 pounds sterling) fee through the University’s online payment service. Please note the order number given to your purchase on your application form so that we can match the payment to your application.
• A personal statement detailing why you are applying for the course. 
• An up-to-date transcript showing the subjects you are taking at high school and your achieved and predicted grades. If your school has a school profile, this should also be included.
• An evaluation of your general character, academic ability and likelihood of success at university level from a teacher or high school counsellor. You should either:
  • Attach your referee’s report in the form of a letter on school stationery, dated and signed by your referee.
  • Or send the name and details of the person who will provide your reference with your application, and use the referee report form (PDF, 599 KB). This must be clearly marked with your name. You can attach this form to your application, send it separately or we can email the referee directly if that is more convenient.

Scholarships

• Global Education
• International Undergraduate Scholarship
• BA International Honours Scholarship
• Students' Association Bursary Fund
• TOEFL Merit Scholarship Programme

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology at the University of St Andrews offers students a comprehensive introduction to the scientific study of the mind and behavior. The program explores a wide range of topics including cognitive processes, developmental psychology, social psychology, biological bases of behavior, and psychological research methods. Students are encouraged to develop strong analytical and research skills through practical laboratory work, statistical analysis, and critical evaluation of contemporary psychological theories. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in both theoretical principles and empirical research, preparing graduates for careers in psychology, healthcare, education, or further postgraduate study. The university emphasizes a research-led teaching approach, involving students in ongoing research projects and encouraging independent inquiry. The program also offers opportunities for specializations through optional modules, internships, and placements, enhancing practical and career-related skills. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, diverse faculty expertise, and a vibrant academic community that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to consider the ethical implications of psychological research and practice. The program culminates in a final-year dissertation, allowing students to conduct original research under supervision. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in clinical, educational, or organizational settings, or continue their studies at postgraduate level in psychology or related fields. The university’s supportive learning environment, combined with its reputation for research excellence, makes it an ideal place for individuals interested in understanding human behavior and applying psychological principles in real-world contexts.