For all we know about the human mind, there is still so much we are continuing to discover. Psychology is one of the most fascinating areas of study, helping us understand how people think, feel and behave.
A career in psychology involves exploring cognitive, emotional and social processes to better understand human behaviour. It can lead to a range of professional opportunities, including areas such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, occupational psychology, forensic psychology and research.
However, becoming a psychologist is a highly specialised career path that requires significant education and professional training. If you are interested in psychology but do not currently have the qualifications needed to apply to university, there are alternative routes available.
Is a Psychology Degree right for you?
While it may seem obvious to need a psychology degree in order to work in psychology, the reality is more complex.
Psychology is a broad field and there are many careers that involve supporting people, understanding behaviour or improving wellbeing.
However, if you want to become a registered psychologist in the UK, you will need to complete the required academic and professional training for your chosen area of psychology.
Psychologist is a protected title in the UK, meaning you must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practise in certain professional psychology roles, including clinical, counselling, educational and forensic psychology.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, for example, is a talking therapy that helps individuals manage challenges such as anxiety and depression.
While CBT practitioners require appropriate training and qualifications, not all roles involving mental health support require someone to become a psychologist.
Similarly, mental health nurses aren’t necessarily qualified psychologists. And they don’t have to be either.
Mental health nurses, counsellors, therapists and support workers all play important roles within mental health services, but they follow different training pathways from psychologists.
If, however, you want to become a registered psychologist then you will need to follow the appropriate route.
For many psychology careers, this begins with completing a psychology degree that is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), followed by further postgraduate training in your chosen specialism.
The exact pathway depends on the area of psychology you want to specialise in, as different roles have different requirements.
Psychology at Degree Level
Psychology is a complex subject that combines theories of human behaviour with scientific research methods.
This means if your qualifications lie elsewhere you may need to develop your understanding of the subject before progressing to university-level study.
A strong foundation in psychology can help you build confidence with key theories, research methods and academic skills before starting a degree.
Stonebridge College’s Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology) is designed to help prepare adult learners for university by developing their understanding of key psychological concepts alongside essential academic study skills.
Throughout the course, you will explore a wide range of psychological concepts, including different perspectives in psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social interaction and the relationship between the brain and behaviour.
You will also examine specialist areas such as psychological disorders and therapeutic approaches, health psychology, intelligence, aggression and forensic psychology, including psychological profiling and the role of psychology within criminal investigations.
Alongside your subject studies, you will develop important academic skills through modules covering academic writing, reading and note-making, helping you build confidence for higher education.
This broad introduction to psychology allows you to explore different areas of the subject while gaining the knowledge and skills needed to progress towards a psychology degree.
If you already have an idea of which universities you would like to apply to in the future, check their entry requirements carefully.
Universities set their own admissions criteria, so it is important to confirm that your chosen Access to Higher Education Diploma meets the requirements for your intended degree course.
Covering the basics
If you are beginning your psychology studies completely fresh, it can feel daunting.
There are many theorists, approaches and concepts to understand, from early psychological theories through to modern research.
Developing your knowledge before starting your qualification can help you feel more prepared and confident as you begin your studies.
Recommended introductory reading can include:
Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behaviour by Richard Gross provides an introduction to key psychological concepts and theories.
Cognitive Psychology: A Student’s Handbook by Michael W. Eysenck explores important areas of cognitive psychology and human thought processes.
For learners considering A Level Psychology, resources such as The Complete Companions: AQA Psychology Year 1 and AS Student Book by Mike Cardwell can also provide useful background knowledge, although the content may not directly match an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
Study Psychology Online with Stonebridge College
Stonebridge College offers the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology), designed to help adult learners gain the qualifications and confidence needed to progress towards university.
With 100% online study, qualified tutor support and flexible subscription-based learning, you can work towards your qualification around your existing commitments.
Whether you are returning to education, changing careers or working towards your future degree, online learning gives you the flexibility to study in a way that suits your lifestyle.
Begin your journey towards higher education today by exploring Stonebridge College’s Access to Higher Education Diploma courses.
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