BSc Psychology
I chose Psychology at Oxford Brookes because
it’s BPS-accredited, which is essential if you want to pursue a career in psychology.
When I attended the Open Day, I was really struck by how passionate the lecturers were - not just about teaching, but about their own research. Hearing them talk about their work made the department feel both approachable and deeply knowledgeable, which was a huge draw for me. Another big factor was the setting. I loved how Oxford Brookes combined modern facilities with the historic charm of Oxford. It felt like the perfect environment to study in for me.
One of the best parts of the course has been
connecting with like-minded people who share the same interests. A standout module for me was Human Factors, where we applied psychology to real-world events like aviation accidents and the Ladbroke Grove train crash. Understanding how these incidents happened , and more importantly, how to prevent them in the future - was fascinating.
I have a great relationship with my Academic Advisor,
and I really appreciate how the Psychology course has smaller advising groups - just 8 to 12 students per advisor, compared to over 20 on other courses. This means we get more one-on-one support when we need it. The department also has open office hours, which makes a huge difference. If I need help with an assignment, I can often book a session for the very next day rather than having to wait until the next lecture.
Don’t stress if you haven’t studied psychology before!
I did, and I was worried the first year would just repeat A-level content - but almost everything was new. At first, starting from scratch might seem daunting, but it keeps the course fresh and exciting. Some of my friends at other universities found their first year repetitive, whereas at Oxford Brookes, we were constantly challenged; even if it feels overwhelming at first, the challenge is what keeps you engaged and helps you develop a real passion for the subject.
Through the course, I’ve learned how to
critically evaluate research, summarise reports, and write my own. We do a lot of group projects and presentations, which have helped me develop teamwork and communication skills while learning from my peers’ perspectives. I recently had the opportunity to observe psychometric testing in Manchester court chambers, where I saw how psychological assessments play a crucial role in ensuring fair trials. I also read psychological reports and assessments, which gave me real insight into the practical side of forensic psychology. Beyond that, I’ve worked in SEN schools, supporting individuals with autism - helping them focus in the classroom and teaching life skills to support their independence.
One of the things I love about psychology is
how many different career paths it opens up. Right now, I’m really interested in music psychology - studying how music affects the brain and influences cognition. I’m also drawn to music therapy, which uses music to help people with neurological conditions like dementia or those recovering from strokes. I’d love to work with individuals in this way, using music as a tool to support their well-being and communication.