Psychology

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive foundation in the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. This undergraduate programme is designed to equip students with a broad understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive processes, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative skills, and ethical considerations crucial for responsible practice in various fields related to psychology. Students also engage in empirical research, learning how to design, conduct, analyze, and interpret psychological studies. The programme fosters an environment of inquiry and debate, encouraging students to apply psychological principles to real-world issues such as mental health, education, workplace dynamics, and community development. In addition to classroom instruction, students have opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, fieldwork, and collaborative research projects with faculty members. The B.A. in Psychology prepares graduates for diverse career paths including clinical practice, counselling, human resource management, research, and further postgraduate studies. The programme also aims to develop graduates' communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, essential for effective engagement in multidisciplinary environments. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society by understanding and influencing human behaviour positively. The University of Cape Town’s psychology programme is characterized by its research excellence and commitment to social impact, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of contemporary psychological practice and research.

• PSY4000W HONOURS IN PSYCHOLOGY  
• PSY5002W MASTER IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY: COURSEWORK PART 1  
• PSY5003W MASTER IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (DISSERTATION)  
• PSY5015W MINOR DISSERTATION  
• PSY5016F PROGRAMME EVALUATION  
• PSY5019W MINOR DISSERTATION IN PSYCHOLOGY  
• PSY5022F INTRODUCTION TO NEUROPSYCHOLOGY  
• PSY5023S NEUROPSYCHOLOGY DISORDERS  
• PSY5025W CLINICAL PRACTICALS  
• PSY5026W RESEARCH DESIGN  
• PSY5027W PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH COURSEWORK  
• PSY5028W NEUROANATOMY AND NEUROPATHOLOGY  

• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Cape Town is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the scientific principles underlying human behavior and mental processes. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Students are encouraged to engage in rigorous theoretical learning as well as practical research methodologies, equipping them with essential skills for both further academic pursuits and diverse career opportunities.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in innovative research projects, working closely with faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing graduates to apply psychological theories to real-world problems. Practical training may include fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and internships, fostering experiential learning and professional development.

The program's structure typically spans three years for a full-time bachelor's degree, with options to specialize or pursue further postgraduate studies in psychology or closely related disciplines. Admission requirements include meeting the university's academic standards, with a focus on mathematics and science subjects at the secondary education level. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in mental health services, human resource management, education, research, policy development, and more.

In addition to core courses, students are encouraged to undertake electives that develop skills in areas such as statistics, research methods, and communication. The university also promotes an inclusive and diverse learning environment, fostering scholarly exchange among students from varied backgrounds. The faculty is committed to high-quality education, supported by modern facilities and access to extensive resources, including libraries, laboratories, and online platforms.

Post-graduation pathways often involve further specialization through honours, master's, or doctoral degrees, enabling students to engage in advanced research or clinical practice. Throughout the program, students gain competencies that are valuable not only within psychology but also across numerous professional fields requiring analytical and interpersonal skills. The University of Cape Town’s Psychology program thus offers a robust academic experience, aligning with international standards and contributing to the development of informed, skilled professionals in psychology and related disciplines.