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Psychology for returning learners and support workers for mental health, HR, education and social care careers

A four-year foundation route into mental health support, social services, HR and educational psychology for applicants without traditional A-Levels. Coursework-based, designed for returners to education and those switching into people-focused careers.

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BSc (Hons)

BSc (Hons) Psychology with Foundation Year

This route can be pursued with Student Finance when you meet the official criteria.

Review the funding guide, download the UniStart app to chat with real advisors, or return to all courses if you need a different campus or schedule.

Course Description

This 4-year BSc (Hons) Psychology degree, including a Foundation Year, provides a comprehensive introduction to psychological theory, research, and application. Whether you are returning to education or do not meet traditional entry requirements, the Foundation Year builds your academic confidence and prepares you for degree-level study.As you progress through the programme, you will explore cognitive, biological, developmental, and social psychology alongside research methodologies and applied practice.By graduation, you will be equipped to pursue careers in mental health, human resources, education, research, and social services.

What You'll Learn

Student Finance Available

Foundation Year Included

Blended Learning

4-Year Programme

3 Campus Locations

Course Structure

Foundation Year
  • Human Sciences I (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Healthcare (20 credits)
  • Personal and Professional Development (20 credits)
  • Foundation Year Extended Project (40 credits)
  • Human Sciences II (20 credits)
  • Foundations of Psychology, Counselling and Mental Health (20 credits)
Year 1
  • Quantitative Research Methods (30 credits)
  • Applying Psychology (30 credits)
  • Conceptual and Historical Perspectives (30 credits)
  • Introduction to Learning Theory (30 credits)
  • Cyberpsychology (30 credits)
  • Introduction to Research Methods (30 credits)
Year 2
  • Developmental Psychology (30 credits)
  • Social Psychology (30 credits)
  • Biological Psychology (30 credits)
  • Applied Psychological Skills (30 credits)
  • Cognitive Psychology (30 credits)
  • Research Methods (30 credits)
Year 3
  • Individual Differences (30 credits)
  • Working with Teams (30 credits)
  • Cognitive Neuroscience (30 credits)
  • Contemporary Issues in Psychology (30 credits)
  • Clinical Psychology (30 credits)
  • Positive Psychology (30 credits)
  • Psychology Placement (30 credits)
  • Dissertation (40 credits)

Entry Requirements

Foundation Year: Two A-Levels at grade DD or equivalent, OR an Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Diploma (minimum 58 credits), OR qualifications totalling 32 UCAS points minimum. Non-academic route available via a Prepare For Foundation assessment day with minimum two years post-GCSE study or experience.

Don't have A-levels? No problem.

We accept equivalent European qualifications: Diploma de Bacalaureat (Romania), Matura (Poland), Abitur (Germany), Baccalaureat (France), and more. Career changers and mature students with relevant UK work experience are also welcome.

Job Prospects

Graduates pursue careers in mental health support, human resources, education, research, and social services. Common roles include Mental Health Support Worker, HR Officer, Research Assistant, Educational Psychologist, and Social Worker.

Tuition Fees & Funding

Total available per year

up to £23,297

Tuition £9,535 + Maintenance up to £13,762. You pay nothing upfront.

Don't worry about fees. Your advisor will check your eligibility and help you apply for full funding, including any additional grants you may qualify for.

Estimate your funding →

Career Prospects

Graduates go on to work in high-demand roles across the UK:

Mental Health Support Worker £22-32k
Human Resources Officer £25-40k
Educational Psychologist £38-52k
Research Assistant £24-35k
Social Worker £30-42k

Salary ranges are indicative based on UK market data. Actual salaries depend on location, experience, and employer.

How You'll Learn

Awarded by HSU University. Blended learning combining on-campus sessions with flexible online study. Delivered across three campuses: Manchester, Derby, and Sunderland.

Assessment Methods

Essays, reports, laboratory projects, presentations, portfolios, online tests, case studies, and dissertation research.

Schedule

Subject to approval

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Frequently Asked

Is funding really 100% covered?
Yes, eligible students can receive full funding covering tuition fees and living costs through Student Finance England.
How long does the application take?
Most applications can be completed in 15-30 minutes using our streamlined process and expert guidance.
Can I study part-time?
Many courses offer flexible study options including part-time, evening, and weekend classes to fit your schedule.

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