BA(Hons) Psychology with Sociology

Summary: This programme explores psychological and sociological theories and current debates and applies them to social structures and concepts








Course description: Psychology is the science of how people think, feel and behave. In this course you will investigate emotions, mental health, relationships, social behaviour and optimal functioning and ask how we can apply this understanding to improve people’s lives. The companion Sociology modules focus on how society functions and changes. 
All of City College Norwich’s Degree programmes are validated by the UEA, meaning that the quality of the awards you get is assured by a world renowned Higher Education organisation. The UEA is a UK top 20 and world top 150 university.
Teaching is usually over two semesters of twelve weeks each and you will be expected to come into college for a minimum of two days a week. You will normally study three modules (worth 20 credits each) in a semester. Teaching will involve lectures, guest speakers, small group sessions or seminars, tutorials, workshops, visits to conferences and field trips.
The course scheme is based on 20 credit modules, the majority of which are taught over one semester, and also the Dissertation module worth 40 credits.
Year 1 (level 4) modules

The sociological imagination. An introduction to sociology

Data analysis. How to work with data

Self and society. How we behave and feel in groups

Cognitive and developmental psychology (option). How we think and process information and child development

Culture and representation. An introduction to the interpretation of culture in a range of media

Higher learning skills. An introduction to the skills needed for study at degree level
Year 2 (level 5) modules

Data and research methods. Developing critical understanding of data analysis

Applied social psychology. Looking at how social psychology has contributed to understanding human behaviour

Sociology of education. Looking at key sociological perspectives on schooling and education

The individual in society. Looking at the role of the individual within society

Health psychology and behavioural change. Covers mental health

Preparation for work and research. Developing the skills required for future employment and academic research
Year 3 (level 6) modules

Relationships and evolutionary psychology. Covers attraction and sexual relationships

Clinical and forensic psychology. Covers depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions alongside different forms of therapy and treatment

Language and communication. An advanced cognitive psychology module

Good and evil. A sociology module on the nature of social and anti-social behaviour

Dissertation. At present, students choose a subject on which to collect data or write a report with extensive preparation and supervision









Entry requirements: We attract students from varied backgrounds and encourage them to reach their full potential. A minimum  of 160 tariff points is usually required but we have no standard offer as we take into account your reference, motivation and commitment to the course, as well as any projected or actual A level grades or other qualifications. We welcome students from Access Diplomas and applicants may be invited to interview. Please note that you must apply for this course through UCAS.
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading), the required minimum is:

IELTS (SELT): 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)

Or GCSE English A*-C

Or equivalent qualification. Please contact the Advice Shop for advice and guidance 
International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the International Students webpage. 









Learning outcome: The programme seeks to ensure that on graduation you should be able to:

Work with confidence both independently and as a member of a group or team.

Demonstrate a capacity for systematic, conceptual and critical thinking.

Show flexible and creative approaches to problem solving.

Communicate clearly and appropriately, demonstrating a sense of audience.

Manage information effectively in a range of media.

Act in an ethical manner demonstrating political, social and cultural awareness.

Produce output that is literate, numerate and coherent.









Objective: On this course you will acquire knowledge of psychological and sociological theories and approaches, but you will also develop your analytical abilities and techniques for the acquisition, presentation and understanding of data. You will learn to communicate effectively, use IT, and work individually and in groups to solve problems. These are all skills that are valued by employers.









Assessment: All modules are assessed at the end of the semester and some modules have additional mid semester assignments. We use various assessment methods, including examinations, essays, reports, presentations, portfolios, dissertations and projects.









Academic progression: Graduates of this course might wish to go on to further study which could include MA or PhD research. At the end of this programme students are in a very good position to sit the qualifying exams for British Psychological Society accreditation. 









Career progression: Graduates might seek to follow a career in social services, education, youth work, mental health, psychology, the probation service, general management or human resources.









Course fee per year: £7 500.00








Costs: Please see our Higher Education funding page for details of support available. 
For international students, please contact our International Student Adviser  in the first instance. We also recommend you take a look at our International Students webpage.