BSc Single Honours Psychology and Childhood Studies (with Foundation Year) (full-time)
Undergraduate
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Discover how children and young people experience the world through a psychological lens. The Psychology and Childhood Studies BSc (Hons) at Birmingham Newman University offers a thoughtful and inclusive route into understanding behaviour, development and wellbeing. Whether you're interested in education, youth work, social care or professional psychology, this degree equips you with the insight, flexibility and support to grow as a reflective and capable practitioner. You’ll join a learning community that values your perspective and encourages you to make a meaningful difference.
Foundation Year at Birmingham Newman University
Start with confidence. Progress with purpose.
The Foundation Year is the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at Birmingham Newman University. It offers a flexible route into higher education for students who may not meet standard entry requirements or who are returning to study after time away. Whether you are exploring a new direction or looking to strengthen your academic foundations, this additional year of study provides the structure, support and space to help you succeed.
You’ll apply through UCAS for your chosen degree with Foundation Year. Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression criteria, you’ll move into Year 1 of your undergraduate course.
Who is the Foundation Year for?
• This route is designed for students who:
• Are returning to education after a break
• Do not currently hold the qualifications for direct entry onto a three-year degree
• Want to build confidence and academic skills before starting undergraduate study
• Are seeking a structured and supportive introduction to university life
You’ll be part of a learning community that recognises your potential and supports your development from the very beginning. The Foundation Year is not just a pathway into university. It is a purposeful and personalised start to your academic journey.
What Will I Study?
The Foundation Year focuses on helping you become a confident, reflective and independent learner. You’ll begin by exploring how you learn and identifying strategies that work for you. You’ll also engage with wider themes such as identity, inequality and the human experience in a digital world. These topics encourage critical thinking and personal insight, while connecting across subject areas.
You’ll develop core academic skills including writing, research, digital literacy and communication. These are taught through seminars, workshops, online activities and one-to-one support. The aim is not only to prepare you for your chosen subject, but to help you feel connected to your learning and to the university community.
‘For someone returning to education after a hiatus, this foundation (year) was essential in helping me regain my academic footing and feel prepared for the challenges ahead.’ – Alix Wyatt, Birmingham Newman University Alumna
What Happens After the Foundation Year?
Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression requirements, you’ll begin Year 1 of your undergraduate degree. You’ll already be familiar with the university environment, your subject area and the expectations of academic study, giving you a strong foundation to build on.
Why Study This Course?
Studying Psychology and Childhood Studies at Birmingham Newman University offers a clear and empowering route into understanding how psychological theory and childhood experiences shape lives and communities. You’ll explore the science of the mind alongside the social, emotional and developmental needs of children and young people. With a strong focus on ethical practice, applied learning and inclusive approaches, the course supports your growth as a socially aware and professionally confident graduate.
Explore Psychology and Childhood Through Inclusive and Applied Practice
Psychology and childhood studies are deeply connected through the exploration of thought, behaviour and social context. This course helps you investigate how these elements influence development and wellbeing. You’ll study topics such as biopsychology, safeguarding and childhood participation, supported by case studies and practical projects. Many students find that the course not only builds professional skills but also deepens their understanding of how psychology can support inclusive and ethical practice with children and families.
Supportive and Personalised Learning
At Birmingham Newman, you’ll be part of a close-knit academic community that values your development and supports your progress. Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars, one-to-one tutorials and collaborative activities. You’ll benefit from regular feedback and personalised guidance from staff with expertise in psychology and childhood studies. Whether you’re joining from school or returning to education, you’ll find an inclusive environment that helps you grow in confidence and take ownership of your learning journey.

Got a question you’d like to ask?
Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025 entry: 48 UCAS points Those with significant work and life experience of a complexity that demonstrates an aptitude to study at degree level, but with no formal qualifications, will also be favourably considered. Different degree pathway options available at the end of the foundation year may have different additional entry requirements. If you require any further information or clarification of entry requirements please contact our friendly, helpful Admissions department, who will be happy to help.
The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535
Additional Costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Where This Course Can Take You.
Graduates leave with a strong foundation in psychological theory and a deep understanding of childhood experiences, alongside transferable skills in communication, analysis and inclusive practice. The course is accredited by the BPS, meaning students who achieve at least a Lower Second Class Honours are eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership. This opens pathways into educational, clinical and counselling psychology, as well as careers in youth services, education, social work, human resources and more. Many students also progress to postgraduate study, including Birmingham Newman’s MSc Clinical Applications of Psychology.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Graduates who achieve at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree qualify for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, which is a key requirement for most BPS-accredited postgraduate training routes.
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