Birmingham City University

BSc Psychology with a Foundation Year

Birmingham City University

Course overview

Birmingham City University’s BSc (Hons) Psychology with a Foundation Year is a four-year full-time programme. The first year builds essential academic and interpersonal skills, introducing foundational subjects that prepare you for degree-level study. Remaining years align with the standard BSc (Hons) Psychology course, covering core and specialist topics such as brain functions, contemporary psychological issues, and scientific reasoning.

Students are assessed by a mix of written assignments, exams, practical tasks, group projects, critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and analysis. The course is designed for those who don't initially meet standard entry conditions, offering strong support to help students progress into the accredited Psychology degree.

Entry requirements

Candidates are required to submit a personal statement stating why they are interested in the course, alongside an academic or employer reference. Applicants can also upload a CV to show their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants of the BSc (Hons) Psychology with a Foundation Year from Birmingham City University need to pass relevant level 3 subjects (A‑levels, BTECs) to enter the foundation year.
  • Successful completion of the foundation year allows entry into the BSc (Hons) Psychology course.

English Proficiency:

  • International applicants must demonstrate an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each section.
  • An equivalent Secure English Language Test (SELT) is accepted.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000

  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Postgraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.

    Up to £3,000

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000

  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of this programme are prepared for job roles such as:

  • Clinical Psychologist Assistant
  • Educational or school psychologist support
  • Human resources or training officer
  • Market researcher or consumer behaviour analyst
  • Counselling practitioner
  • Policy maker or community support worker

Cost of study

The Tuition fee for the BSc (Hons) Psychology with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University for international students is £17,690 per year.

Admission

Applicants for this course should visit the school application portal to apply. You can speak to one of our trained advisors for guidance.

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