Top UK Universities For Psychology - Rankings And League Table
Check out our full guide on the top universities offering psychology degrees to study at in the UK. We’ve also curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Psychology.
Table of Contents
What Do You Study In Psychology?
In psychology degrees, students study a wide range of topics related to the understanding of human behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in fields such as clinical psychology, counseling, human resources, research, education, and healthcare, among others.
Career Options For Psychology Graduates
Graduates with psychology degrees can pursue diverse career paths in fields such as clinical psychology, counselling, human resources, research, education, and healthcare, among others. These degrees also serve as a strong foundation for further specialisation or advanced degrees in psychology or related fields.
UK University League Table For Psychology (Updated 2024 Rankings)
The University League Table for Psychology shows some of the top ranking universities to study Psychology in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, sorted by UK and global ranking as well as entry requirements.
Top UK Universities for Psychology League Table
Recommended UK Universities for Psychology League Table
Top Psychology Schools In The UK
Coming in at number 4 is none other than Scotland’s University of St. Andrews. With a long history of academic excellence and northern charm, it makes a prime choice for students who want to experience the coastal city of Fife.
A notable mention, the University of Bath sits among top universities like Oxford and Cambridge (who rank number 2 and number 1, respectively). Bath ranks at number 5 in the subject rankings for Psychology in the UK . The course is a 3-year programme designed to equip you with everything you need to become a fully certified psychologist.
If you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city, check out University College London and experience studying and making connections in this well-known metropolis, also a melting pot of cultures from different walks of life.
Recommended Psychology Courses In The UK
Loughborough University is in the top 20 for Psychology in the UK which also offers a work placement year in another country for those interested in travelling and experiencing different cultures. The extra work placement year is a paid employment and earns the Diploma in International Studies (DIntS) which is an additional qualification to the final degree.
Located in the historic Durham City, Durham University‘s psychology course ranked as the 7th best in the 2024 UK rankings. Studying there also means you get to experience a rich cultural environment filled with history and lush, beautiful landscapes.
At number 14, the University of Exeter offers a distinguished yet affordable psychology degree for hopeful students. The campus comes equipped with specialist learning and research facilities include the Mood Disorders Centre, labs for studying animal learning, and equipment for measuring eye movement and brain activity.
Another option, Lancaster University is ranked 24th in the UK with a relatively lower entry requirement (AAB / 38 IB). While studying there, you can spend time exploring lush surrounding outdoors and forests, as well as the sights and sounds of the ancient city of Lancaster. It’s location in the centre of UK makes it the perfect location hub for visiting the rest of Great Britain. It’s also one of the more affordable options out here.
How To Apply To Study Psychology In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparation
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five preferred universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.
UK Psychology University Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Psychology.
- English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
- Health checks.
- Entrance interviews.
- Personal statement. This is a supporting document an part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
The number 1 university for psychology in the UK is currently the University of Cambridge, as of 2024.
The common entry requirements for studying psychology in the UK include: English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The fees for psychology degrees in UK depends on the university, but can range anywhere between £27,000 to £43,000 per annum for international students. Rankings and location of a university might also affect the price.
For most psychology degrees, it is best to apply before 15 of January of the year of admission. Take note that if you are applying for most courses in Oxford and Cambridge University, you need to apply before 15 of October.
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