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LOCATION
Stratford Campus
Location Fees and Funding
Here's the fees and funding information for each year of this course
Overview
This course is ideal if you're committed to living or working away from our School of Psychology in east London. Wherever you're based, our academic and administrative teams will support you. They're highly experienced in supporting distance learners.
The key advantages of this new course are that you have the flexibility of choosing when you can study and access to your own personal tutor as well as online forums. It follows the format of our highly successful campus-based degree, which has been developed within our highly respected School of Psychology over a period of more than 50 years.
While other universities may require some attendance, this course is delivered entirely online through our virtual learning environment, UELDirect. There's no requirement for attendance in any of your modules. But this course requires a lot of self-discipline and time management is the key.
"About a third of our students are in London, and a third live in the UK," says Course Leader Dr Anna Stone. "We have others in countries across the world, including Thailand, Guatemala and all across Africa."
Whether you're working, or you have children to look after, or you're simply looking to keep your mind active - this course is perfect for you.
What makes this course different
100% Student satisfaction
An incredible endorsement from our own students, and shows they love studying our Distance Learning course - and we have no doubt you will love us too. (NSS, 2018)
Mirrors our on campus course
As a distance learner you'll cover the same material, and the same amount of material, as if you were doing the BSc (Hons) Psychology course on campus. This is very rare for Distance Learning courses in the UK and we're one of the very few universities in the UK to offer this.
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS)
This accreditation is a mark of quality that students and employers understand and value. Studying a BPS accredited course will give you the opportunity to gain graduate or chartered membership of the Society.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
As a distance learner you'll cover the same material, and the same amount of material, as if you were doing the BSc (Hons) Psychology course on campus.
Our psychology degree will give you a broad knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of modern psychology. You will develop a good knowledge of the influences on and factors involved in human functioning in all the core areas of psychology:
- Biological foundations
- Cognitive psychology
- Social psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Individual differences
- Conceptual and historical issues in psychology
- Research methods
You will also develop detailed knowledge of several specialised areas through option choice, develop knowledge of research paradigms, methods and measurement techniques, of real life applications of theory to behaviour and experience, and knowledge of how behaviour and experience can be affected by physical and mental illness. This knowledge will be backed up by subject-based practical skills such as the ability to design and conduct research, to analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data, and awareness of ethical issues and principles in research on human behaviour.
Key to many careers and employers - you will also develop thinking skills, including analysis and interpretation of evidence, scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and appreciation of multiple perspectives and approaches. Furthermore, other skills for life and work including communication, computer literacy (word processing, statistical software), interpersonal and group skills, numeracy and statistical competence, self-knowledge and reflexivity, and planning and time-management.
We consistently review our courses to ensure we are up to date with industry changes and requirements from our graduates. As a result, our modules are subject to change.
DOWNLOAD COURSE SPECIFICATIONS
MODULES
- Core Modules
Thinking Like a Psychologist (Mental Wealth) CloseThinking Like a Psychologist (Mental Wealth)
The aim of the module is to support students in their transition to Degree level study of Psychology, introducing them to new ways of thinking that have psychology at the core. Students will learn about psychological principles that have value in everyday life and learning. They will be supported in the development of critical thinking skills, prized by graduate employers. In addition, students will learn how to present psychological concepts to members of the general public, and to use on-line presentation software to facilitate such work.
Introduction to Biological and Social and Individual Differences CloseIntroduction to Biological and Social and Individual Differences
The main aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the core fields of Social and Biological Psychology and Individual Differences and a foundation for understanding and evaluating these approaches within the discipline of Psychology and an understanding of historical, social and cultural influences. Students will also develop a knowledge of relevant key concepts and theories, providing a grounding for level 5 study of applied topics in these fields.
Introduction to Cognitive and Developmental Psychology CloseIntroduction to Cognitive and Developmental Psychology
In this module, we explore the mechanisms that process information about the world (such as perception, memory, and attention) and by which we develop our responses to it (e.g., by thinking, communicating, and the shaping of behaviour by our learning). In doing so, this module introduces core topics in cognitive psychology (which seeks to scientifically model how the mind functions) and developmental psychology (which seeks to understand change through the lifespan).
Psychology in Applied Contexts ClosePsychology in Applied Contexts
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the ways in which psychology is used in professional roles and graduate level employment. Module content will include an introduction to the core professional division of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and, beyond this, to the diverse ways in which psychology is used within 'real-world' settings, including well-established and new emerging career opportunities. The module will provide a foundation for understanding, reflecting on and developing graduate employability which will be built on at level 5.
Researching with Small Samples CloseResearching with Small Samples
To introduce students to key approaches to research in Psychology, including research design, data analysis, evaluating and writing up research. This module will focus on research methods appropriate to questions relating to smaller sample sizes.
Researching with Larger Samples CloseResearching with Larger Samples
To introduce students to key approaches to research in Psychology, including research design, data analysis, evaluating and writing up research. This module will focus on research methods appropriate to questions relating to larger sample sizes.
- Core Modules
Individual Differences and Diversity CloseIndividual Differences and Diversity
This module has three principle aims: (i) to develop a critical and historical awareness of theories of, and issues relating to, individual differences (ii) to instil understanding of, and foster respect for, diversity; (iii) to encourage students to be insightful and reflective about their own and others' behaviour and mental processes. An ongoing theme of the module will be to consider the implications of the knowledge imparted for real-life events and the development of professional practice. These aims are intended to help students develop into psychologically literate citizens.
Psychological Research Methods ClosePsychological Research Methods
The aim of the module is to build on material delivered in the level 4 research method modules and provide a preparation for the independent research project at level 6. The module will: present more advanced statistical methods used to analyse quantitative data from designs with one and more than one IV/factor; to ensure awareness of a range of experimental and non-experimental quantitative designs (including real-world research) and a range of qualitative designs; consider issues of internal and external validity; further consider epistemological and methodological issues, reflexivity, ethics and practicalities of conducting qualitative research; and provide students with opportunities to gain further experience designing, executing and writing quantitive and qualitative research studies.
Topics in Cognitive and Developmental Psychology CloseTopics in Cognitive and Developmental Psychology
The module builds on students' learning at level 4 and explores a range of current issues and topics in cognitive and developmental psychology in greater depth. Students will learn about appropriate ways to analyse and interpret findings in these core areas of psychology. The module's aim is to encourage a more evaluative and analytical approach than at level 4 coverage of these areas of psychology.
Applications of Psychobiology and Social Psychology CloseApplications of Psychobiology and Social Psychology
The module will build upon knowledge of the psychobiology and social psychological approaches that were introduced at Level 4. The aim of the module is to develop students' knowledge and critical awareness of these major theoretical perspectives for understanding human behaviour. Current issues as well as historical debates in these two areas will be explored. Considerable focus will be placed upon the real-world application and utility of theories falling within each approach.
Work-Based Learning in Psychology (Mental Wealth) CloseWork-Based Learning in Psychology (Mental Wealth)
The module is designed to further develop students' awareness of the range of careers, work and volunteering opportunities open to psychology graduates and to support their engagement with personal and professional development strategies. Based on a short period of work-experience, arranged by students and completed as part of the module's student learning time, students will be able to learn about organisations and make use of networking opportunities. They will have an opportunity to integrate psychological theory with practice and to clarify their interests and goals.
Optional ModulesThe Psychology of Sleep and Dreaming CloseThe Psychology of Sleep and Dreaming
In this module, you will find out what sleep and dreaming are and why they are of interest to psychologists, and you will study the psychology of sleep and dreaming via a number of different psychological approaches (e.g. cognitive, social, developmental, biological, clinical and research methods).
During the course of the module, as well as learning about the theory and practice of the psychology of sleep and dreaming, you will have an opportunity to critically discuss the lecture material through in-depth seminars and get hands-on experience of polysomnography via practical classes held in the University of East London Sleep and Dreams Laboratory.
Research Skills in Cognitive Neuroscience CloseResearch Skills in Cognitive Neuroscience
This option module introduces the students to the theoretical underpinnings of cognitive neuroscience, and to the practical skills necessary to conduct research in cognitive neuroscience. In the first part of the module, the students will be introduced to cognitive neuroscience literature that utilises specific technologies (e.g, electrophysiology or eye-tracking). In the second part of the module, the students will be asked to pick a certain technology and will be guided in groups to develop and analyse an experiment that uses that technology.
Introduction to Forensic Psychology CloseIntroduction to Forensic Psychology
The main aims of this module are:
- To introduce concepts and issues in forensic and criminological psychology.
- To provide an overview of the historical, current and potential future relationships between psychology and the criminal justice system.
- To provide a clear overview of how psychology has been used, and can further be used, to inform practical problems arising in the criminal justice system.
Psychology, Identity and Society ClosePsychology, Identity and Society
Students will be introduced to the range of debates that have led to a move away from 'positivistic' psychology and towards what is now known as critical social psychology or, 'societal' psychology. The module will introduce a variety of critical approaches and explore limitations and constraints of individualistic, reductionist and essentialist analyses of the individual and the social in psychology. The module will foster an awareness of the importance of the 'social locatedness' (historical, community, philosophical, etc.) of psychological knowledge and 'realities' and will explore subjectivity and identity, social-relations, broader cultural formations (than traditionally allowed by positivistic social psychology) and collective sense-making across a range of theories, methods and topic areas.
Childhood: Difficulties and Differences across Development CloseChildhood: Difficulties and Differences across Development
The aim of the module is to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of theoretical accounts and key research findings on difficulties and differences that begin or are first observed in childhood, building on and adding to the developmental psychology modules taken at levels 4 and 5. The module will aim to develop students’ abilities to evaluate research on atypical development and explore how research findings have relevance to the real world.
- Core Modules
Psychology in Communication and Social Engagement (Mental Wealth) ClosePsychology in Communication and Social Engagement (Mental Wealth)
This module will develop students' understanding of the range of theories and techniques involved in psychologies of social engagement. Examples include the communication of psychological knowledge to external audiences and the use of psychological knowledge to address real world issues and problems. These examples will be contextualised with reference to conceptual and historical issues in psychology. Students will be invited to develop a broad understanding of psychology and their psychological knowledge as it is relevant to the wider world, including local communities, businesses, politics and policy.
Psychology Research Project ClosePsychology Research Project
- To improve student's awareness of the issues involved in the formulation, execution and reporting of psychological research and theory.
- To facilitate students' application of their skills and psychological knowledge to conduct and report an independent piece of empirical research.
The Psychology of Mental Health CloseThe Psychology of Mental Health
This module introduces students to a psychological understanding of the multiple factors involved in the causes of mental health difficulties in adulthood. Conceptual and historical contexts are considered. As well considering the role of psychological factors in mental ill-health, the module also considers the relative role played by social (for example, occupation, and socioeconomic status) and biological factors (for example, aspects of neurology, physiology and genetic disposition). Thereby, the module examines the relative contribution of nature and nurture in the genesis of human misery. Implications for mental health promotion are considered.
Optional ModulesDrugs and Addictive Behaviours CloseDrugs and Addictive Behaviours
The aims of the module are to explore the effects of both recreational and dependent (illicit and non-illicit) psychoactive drugs on the brain and behaviour; to looks at the type of addictive behaviours (both drug and non-drug) there are and the theories/models accounting for different addictive behaviours and potential treatments available for some of these addictive behaviours.
Cyberpsychology CloseCyberpsychology
This module aims to provide a broad introduction to the field of cyberpsychology; a subject that examines all aspects of psychology in the context of technology. Broadly speaking the module aims to: 1) Introduce students to the topic of cyberpsychology and its associated research methods; 2) Outline some of the topics and applications of cyberpsychology; 3) Develop a critical faculty whereby students consider the implications of their existing knowledge of psychology to contemporary technology.
Advanced Forensic Psychology CloseAdvanced Forensic Psychology
The aims of the module are to educate students into the complexity of behaviour that is considered criminological; to examine psychological theory and research concerning different types of offending behaviour and for students to develop an appreciation of the role that psychologists can play in rehabilitation and desistance from offending behaviour.
Health Psychology CloseHealth Psychology
The module describes and evaluates biopsychosocial approaches to health and illness. It examines social and psychological processes which contribute to the occurrence of various physical health outcomes and to the maintenance of health. It discusses the role of psychosocial processes in the experience and progression of health and illness. Specifically, it examines biopsychosocial precursors and consequences which are identifiable empirically in the aetiology and progression of a variety of health phenomena. Such precursors include the role of social support, social cognitions, individual differences in coping and personality, life change events and psycho-neuro-immunological, endocrine and other physiological processes. In summary, this module explores how psychological and social factors impact out health. Implications for prevention of illness and promotion of health are considered.
Advanced Developmental Psychology CloseAdvanced Developmental Psychology
This module will provide students with an opportunity to examine and evaluate in-depth key and current methods and findings in developmental psychology. The aim is to investigate the main factors that shape development in a variety of domains (social, emotional, cognitive) and across ages, in a manner that will help students to develop the skills required to be able to critically analyse research in this area. The module will also give students the opportunity to consolidate and to explore in more depth some of the concepts previously introduced at levels 4 and 5.
Psychology of Choice ClosePsychology of Choice
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the main concepts and theories in research on preference choices, risk perception and communication, and judgement and decision making. Students will be able to describe and evaluate research findings on how people assess risks (major hazards, terrorism etc.) and which psychological factors determine the choices and preferences made by individuals and experts.
Cognitive Neuropsychology CloseCognitive Neuropsychology
This module provides a broad insight into the area of cognitive neuropsychology, i.e. we try to show how the study of brain injury informs, and is informed, by normal theories of cognition. The module outlines the aims and methodology of cognitive neuropsychology, the nature of brain injury and plasticity, different neuropsychological disorders and neuropsychological perspectives on subjects such as intelligence and emotion. This module also considers the future of neuropsychological and rehabilitation.
Psychology of Belief ClosePsychology of Belief
The aims of the module are to assist students in developing; their skills and competencies in critical thinking and the evaluation of information; their ability to understand behaviours motivated by different values and different cultural perspectives; and their ability to understand the causes of beliefs which they do not themselves ascribe to.
Students will explore the various factors (e.g., social, developmental, cognitive, cultural, and biopsychological) that contribute to unsubstantiated beliefs, look at various theories of religious belief, and explore the psychology of moral values and political affiliation.
Occupational Psychology CloseOccupational Psychology
The module aims to introduce students to the main areas of occupational and organisational psychology and providing a critical understanding of the various ways in which contemporary psychological knowledge is applied to workplace behaviour of people and to business management. It elucidates multiple aspects of human performance at work and ways to optimise them, considering their individual, group and organisational contexts.
Counselling Psychology CloseCounselling Psychology
HOW YOU'LL LEARN
We encourage an educational experience that is active, social, collaborative, engaging and student-owned. You will have access to a variety of resources ensuring your learning experience goes beyond the classroom.
We are investing in key areas beyond your studies including our career services, library and well-being, to be available both face-to-face on campus and online with many of these available 24/7. We have new, modern library facilities on both campuses offering inspirational environments for study and research. Libraries contain resources in print and digital formats, a range of study spaces and a dedicated librarian who can assist with your learning.
Students are supported with any academic or subject related queries by an Academic Advisor, module leaders, former and current UEL students.
If you need a bit of extra help with certain skills such as academic writing, English, maths or statistics, our Academic Tutors offer workshops, drop-in sessions and one-to-one appointments to help our students achieve their potential. You can receive advice and guidance on all aspects of the IT systems provided by the University from our IT Service Desks located on all three campuses.
Our Student Support hubs in Docklands and Stratford feature centralised helpdesks to cater for your every need. UEL provides also support and advice for disabled students and those with specific learning difficulties (SPDs).
Your overall workload consists of class and online tutor-led sessions, individual learning, practical activities. The size of classes can vary depending on the nature of the course, module and activity. This can range from large groups in a lecture theatre setting to smaller groups taking part in seminars and collaborative work. You will receive your personalised timetable at the beginning of the academic year dependent on your course.
The approximate percentages for this course are:
Year 1: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours.
Year 2: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours.
Year 3: scheduled teaching - 300 hours; guided independent study - 900 hours
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally attracts 100 - 120 students a year. Lecture sizes are normally 100 plus students.
In the seminars, you will be taught in groups of 18–20 students. However, this can vary by academic year.
HOW YOU'LL BE ASSESSED
Assessment tasks are mainly spread across the year to make the workload manageable. Assessment methods include group works, exams and individual work including essays, presentations, case studies, professional development and practical activities depending on the nature of the course. All grades count towards your module mark. More details will be included in the student handbook and module guides.
Feedback is provided within 15 working days in line with UEL's assessment and feedback policy.
CAMPUS and FACILITIES
Stratford Campus, Water Lane, Stratford
WHO TEACHES THIS COURSE
The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers. Full details of the academics will be provided in the student handbook and module guides.
Antonio Fidalgo
Antonio is a neurobehavioural researcher interested in social cognition and health.
See full profile
Dr Anna Stone
Dr Stone is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychology. She is Programme Leader for the BSc Psychology by Distance Learning course.
See full profile
The technology used in the presentations has made the distance learning experience almost as real as being on campus. Support for distance learning students has been well planned and I've never felt left out."
Dimitris Flamouris
Psychology by Distance Learning, BSc (Hons)
What we're researching
At the University of East London we are working on the some of the big issues that will define our future; from sustainable architecture and ethical AI, to health inequality and breaking down barriers in the creative industries.
Our students and academics are more critically engaged and socially conscious than ever before. Discover some of the positive changes our students, alumni and academics are making in the world.
YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Employers value psychology graduates because they believe they have a better understanding of human behaviour. Your understanding of how people work within organisations will be a real selling point when you apply for any managerial appointment.
On average, 80 per cent of University of East London psychology graduates pursue careers outside academia.
Many are now employed in social welfare, sport and leisure, education, human resource management, consumer research and advertising, media, market research and community work.
Your training in data collection and analysis, report writing and IT skills will also be useful in a range of jobs not directly related to psychology.
If you are in the 20 per cent of graduates wanting to continue your studies, a BSc Psychology degree is the first step towards becoming a professional psychologist, whether it is in the field of clinical, educational, occupational, counselling, health or forensic psychology.
Your next step will be further study at master's or doctorate level.
"Some people do a distance-learning degree so they can further their careers," says Course Leader Dr Anna Stone. "Some people want to keep mentally agile, and there's nothing better than study to keep the mind active. Some of our students are in their 70s."
Explore the different career options you can pursue with this degree and see the median salaries of the sector on our Career Coach portal.
