Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes, examining how people think, feel, perceive, and act, both individually and in social contexts. It is a discipline that combines laboratory science with the observation of real behaviour, and that draws on philosophy, biology, social science, and clinical practice to build a rigorous understanding of the mind. Studying psychology develops the ability to read and evaluate research critically, to understand the experimental and statistical methods on which psychological knowledge is based, and to think clearly about how people make decisions, form relationships, experience distress, and change over time.

At Teesside University, this part-time programme develops the skills you need to read and evaluate psychological information, theories, and research papers. A significant focus is on cognitive biases and the common errors that people make when assessing arguments and evaluating evidence, understanding why these errors occur and how to overcome them. This critical thinking dimension is not peripheral to psychology but central to it: the discipline progresses by subjecting its own claims to the same scrutiny it applies to the world.

You will explore the major areas of psychological science, including social psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, biological psychology, and the psychology of individual differences. The part-time structure gives you the flexibility to study alongside work, caring responsibilities, or other commitments, allowing you to develop a rigorous academic qualification at a pace that fits your life.

Graduates from psychology degrees move into a wide range of careers. Those who wish to work as professional psychologists, whether in clinical, educational, occupational, or forensic settings, typically complete further postgraduate training. Others apply their psychological knowledge in health and social care, human resources, market research, education, communication, and public policy.

The critical thinking, research, and data skills developed through the degree are valued across many professional contexts.