Psychology with Neuroscience - BSc (Hons)
Keele University’s Undergraduate Psychology with Neuroscience Programme is a modern, interdisciplinary course that combines the study of human behaviour with an in-depth understanding of brain and nervous system functions.
Students gain a solid theoretical foundation in psychological science, combined with neurobiological knowledge and scientific analysis skills essential for understanding the interplay between cognition, emotion, and brain function.
Key benefits of the programme
Introduction to methods such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and EEG.
A holistic approach to human behaviour, covering both its psychological and biological aspects.
Development of skills in data analysis, scientific reasoning, and research ethics for careers in psychology, neuroscience and neuropsychology.
Participation in psychological and neuroscientific experiments to enhance experiential learning.
Preparation of a research dissertation to enhance scientific independence and analytical skills.
UNIVERSITY
Keele University
DURATION IN YEARS
4 Years (FT)
Language
English/Greek
Study at Keele Greece
Programme Description
Covering a wide range of topics, the programme provides comprehensive training in psychological theory, brain structure and function, and the interactions between psychological functions and neurobiological mechanisms.
Students become familiar with modern research techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalogram (EEG) and other methods of recording brain activity, and hands-on laboratory experience through experiments and practical exercises.
The programme culminates in an independent dissertation, enabling students to design and conduct scientific research while preparing them for postgraduate study or professional careers in areas such as: clinical psychology, neuropsychology, or the broader field of neuroscience and mental health.
MODULES PER YEAR
Year 1 (semester 1)
- Understanding People (annual module – Part A):
Τhis module includes: core topics in developmental and social psychology, as well as individual differences. Students learn how research contributes to understanding human behaviour and thought, through teaching delivered by specialist staff. Indicative topics include cognitive, language, numerical, social, and emotional development, as well as issues of social influence, identity, and group processes. Individual differences are discussed in relation to other areas of psychology, such as cognitive and biological psychology. - First Steps in Becoming a Psychology Researcher (annual module – Part A):
This module includes: Students are introduced to research methods in psychology, including the philosophical foundations of qualitative and quantitative research design, as well as data collection, data analysis, and report writing. . - Introduction to Neuroscience (annual module – Part A):
This module includes: architecture and anatomical subdivisions of the nervous system, development and evolution of the nervous system, structure and function relationships of the nervous system, physiology and neurochemistry of nervous function, main human sensory systems, examples of neurological disorders, analysis and evaluation of experimental studies in neuroscience, laboratory skills and scientific report writing, teamwork, team leadership and team dynamics in the context of research. - Human Physiology and Anatomy (annual module – part A):
This module includes: physiology, anatomy and function of the digestive, nervous and neuromuscular, respiratory and cardiovascular, excretory and immune, reproductive and endocrine systems, regulation of systems by the nervous and endocrine systems (hypothalamus, pituitary gland, glands, sympathetic and parasympathetic), use of special laboratory equipment in the study of physiology, analysis of pathologies affecting organ systems, interventions and treatments, physiological interpretation and imaging, presentation and communication of physiological and anatomical issues - Practical and Academic Skills in Bioscience (annual module – part A):
This module includes: basic practical skills in laboratory environment, maintenance and development of laboratory workbook, recording and analysis of experimental data, safe preparation and use of laboratory equipment, execution of procedures according to scientific protocols, development of assessment skills, strengthening of academic skills of recording, analysis and interpretation of results
Year 1 (semester 2)
- Understanding People (annual module – Part B):
Students focus on biological and cognitive psychology, applying these approaches to the understanding of individual differences. Topics examined include the structure and function of the brain, neural processes, perception, memory, problem solving, and the influence of genes and hormones on behaviour. The module introduces core theoretical concepts and key research findings, while also developing study skills and engagement in asynchronous learning activities. - First Steps in Becoming a Psychology Researcher (annual module – Part B):
This module introduces students to qualitative and quantitative research methods in psychology. It covers the philosophical foundations of qualitative and quantitative research designs, as well as data collection, data analysis, and research report writing. Teaching combines in-person and online active learning, complemented by weekly two-hour, in-person laboratory sessions. The laboratories aim to apply research concepts in practice, providing students with a deeper understanding of how qualitative and quantitative research operates (e.g. developing appropriate research questions, applying ethical principles in different contexts, collecting, preparing, and analysing various types of data). - Introduction to Neuroscience (annual Module – Part B):
This module includes: architecture and physiology of the nervous system, development and evolution of the nervous system, structure and function relationships, physiology and neurochemistry of nervous function, main sensory systems, examples of human nervous system disorders, analysis and evaluation of experimental studies in neuroscience, graphical representation of scientific data, drafting laboratory reports using appropriate terminology, development of teamwork, leadership and collaborative learning skills - Human Physiology and Anatomy (annual module – part B):
This module includes: digestive, nervous, neuromuscular, respiratory, cardiovascular, excretory, immune, reproductive and endocrine systems regulation by the nervous and endocrine systems (hypothalamus, pituitary, glands, sympathetic/parasympathetic), use of special lab equipment and techniques for practical study of physiology, pathologies affecting the functioning and anatomical organisation of systems, interventions and treatments, analysis and interpretation of physiological data, presentation and communication of scientific issues with multimedia tools (video) - Practical and Academic Skills in Bioscience (annual module – part B):
This module includes: basic laboratory and field skills, maintenance of laboratory/field workbook, data recording and analysis, safe use of laboratory equipment, protocol-based standard laboratory procedures, development of professional accuracy and reliability skills, participation in organised practical sessions, and preparation for practical evaluation
Year 2 (semester 3)
- Next Steps in Becoming a Psychology Researcher (annual module – Part A):
This module includes: widely used advanced research methods in psychology, ranging from classical tests to state-of-the-art statistical techniques at the forefront of psychological research. These include factorial ANOVA, regression analysis, and an introduction to Bayesian analysis. The module develops statistical understanding that is vital for interpreting and conducting research in psychology. The logical and numerical skills developed are useful across psychology, other disciplines, and professional activities, and are highly valued by prospective employers. - Understanding People in Depth (annual module – Part A):
This module includes: It enables students to deepen their knowledge and reflective skills across a range of topics in biological and cognitive psychology, with a focus on current understanding in the field. It also helps students develop an appreciation of how cultural and individual differences can influence issues, theories, and research perspectives in psychology. Typical cognitive topics may include perception, attention and inhibitory control, human learning and memory, and mental imagery. Biological topics relate to the central nervous system in both typical and pathological states, highlighting the neural substrates that underpin mental processes and behaviour. - Cyberpsychology: The Psychology of the Internet and Technology
This module includes: Theoretical foundations of cyberpsychology; psychological effects of internet use; reliance on technology and online behaviours; online dating and interpersonal relationships; social media use and influence; online advertising and consumer behaviour; modes of online interaction and communication; and contemporary research through journal articles in cyberpsychology - Neurodevelopment
This module includes: development and organization of the nervous system from conception to adulthood; embryonic tissue organisation and formation of neural structures; genealogy and fate of nervous system cells; mechanisms of neuronal migration and pathway configuration; examples of prenatal and postnatal plasticity; genetic and environmental influences on development; laboratory approaches to studying neurodevelopment; and analysis and preparation of research and practical reports
Year 2 (semester 4)
- Next Steps in Becoming a Psychology Researcher (annual module – Part B):
This module includes: it builds on the content of the first year, further developing students’ understanding and skills in the principles and techniques of qualitative research methods in psychology, such as interviews, focus groups, the World Café method, and others, as well as qualitative analysis techniques including thematic analysis, discourse analysis, and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Students undertake guided weekly independent study and complete activities prior to the weekly laboratory sessions. During the laboratory classes, students gain hands-on experience across all aspects of qualitative research design, with particular emphasis on conducting qualitative analytical techniques such as thematic analysis. - Understanding People in Depth (annual module – Part B):
This module includes: it develops an advanced understanding of key areas in developmental and social psychology, as well as the ability to critically evaluate theories and research. It also extends the material taught in Year 1 and integrates it with new themes from developmental psychology and adult social psychology. Indicative topics include peer relationships, gender development, social identities, and motor/perceptual development - Learning and Memory
This module includes: Types of learning and memory (declarative, non-declarative, short-term, long-term, working memory); physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory; synaptic plasticity and processes of integration, retention, and recall; brain systems for fear, spatial memory, and motor skills; effects of neurological disorders on learning and memory; critical analysis of primary research articles; and communication of knowledge through textbook writing - Fundamentals of Health Psychology
This module includes: history and evolution of health psychology; basic health theories and models; research methodologies in health psychology; inequalities and social determinants of health; health psychology and underrepresented groups; development and evaluation of health interventions; critical analysis of campaigns and prevention programs
Year 3 (semester 5)
- Neurophysiology
This module includes: properties of neural membranes and ion channels; action potentials and mechanisms of neural communication; sensory transduction and information processing; synaptic transmission and excitation–inhibition balance; mechanisms of synaptic plasticity; neural coding within functional networks; the role of neurophysiology in memory and learning; dynamics of neural networks and their contribution to overall brain function; and communication and presentation of neurophysiological principles to diverse audiences - Psychopathology
This module includes: basic psychopathological conditions (autism, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia), clinical, cognitive and biological approaches to psychopathology, neurobiological and cognitive causes of mental disorders, contemporary research and literature analysis in mental health, diagnostic frameworks and DSM-5, cultural and social dimensions of psychopathology, synthesis and writing of academic papers on mental health issues, skills in critical assessment of research papers - Behavioural Neuroscience
This module includes: neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuroendocrinology and behavioural neuropharmacology, mechanisms of sleep and biological rhythms, neurobiology of sexual behaviour and homeostasis, attention, language, ageing, motivation-pleasure-pain-reward systems, role of the amygdala in regulating emotions and mediating fear, stress and psychopathology of behavioural disorders, teamwork and critical evaluation of research data - Gender Identity and Sexuality
This module includes: psychological approaches to gender identity and sexuality, inequalities and barriers related to different identities, stereotypes and social representations, health issues, social, cultural and political contexts of gender and sexuality, the role of community and intersectionality, critical evaluation of theory and research, contemporary issues and future directions in the study of gender and sexuality
Year 3 (semester 6)
- Neuropharmacology
This module includes: basic principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics; mechanisms regulating drug-mediated neurotransmission; major drug classes for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders; therapeutic ranges and side effects; drug effects on mood, behaviour, and addiction; processes of drug discovery and development from research to clinical trials; and emerging approaches to the treatment and management of neuropsychiatric diseases - Child Psychology in Practice
This module includes: fundamental principles of designing and evaluating interventions for children; research methods in child psychology; applications of psychology to children’s learning; healthy and unhealthy childhood relationships; special educational needs and disabilities (SEND); theoretical frameworks for child development; practical approaches to applied child psychology - Contemporary Research Topics in Neuroscience
This module includes: current research areas in neuroscience; analysis and interpretation of scientific articles; research methodologies and emerging findings; future directions of the field; reflection on progress and ethical dilemmas; and development of skills for presenting and summarising research topics - Ethics, Justice and Society: Approaches to Ethics and Social Psychology
This module includes: contemporary theories of moral psychology; psychological mechanisms of justice and social order; factors of trust and cooperation; processes of responsibility and accountability; research findings on ethics and justice; contemporary controversies and issues in social psychology of ethics; application of theories in real social contexts;, critical evaluation of research data and development of reasoned research proposals
Year 4 (semester 7)
- Dissertation (annual module – part 1)
This module includes: design and development of psychological research; ethical principles and approval by an ethics board; literature search and critical evaluation; formulation of research questions and hypotheses; development of materials and data collection tools; data collection and analysis using quantitative and qualitative methods; interpretation of results and discussion of implications; writing research reports in accordance with APA standards; preparation and presentation of posters and viva; and development of professional skills with responsible adherence to research practices - Neuropathology
This module includes: pathophysiology of cellular and molecular mechanisms in neurological, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders; clinical features and diagnosis of conditions such as schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, meningitis, hydrocephalus, and brain tumours; effects of perinatal disorders (e.g., Down syndrome) on neurodevelopment; research advances in prevention and treatment of neuropathologies; epidemiology and social/health implications; case study analysis; and development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills - Psychology in Education
This module includes: application of psychological theories in primary, secondary and higher education; bullying and psychological interventions; social skills development and training; management and promotion of diversity in the classroom; psychometric assessment and evaluation of students; factors affecting learning and performance; design and evaluation of educational interventions; psychological support of the school community and promotion of children’s well-being; development of cooperation skills and independent study to address educational challenges - Investigative Forensic Psychology
This module includes: eyewitness testimony and credibility; cognitive memory and suspect recognition processes; psychological factors influencing testimony accuracy; the role of social, developmental, and cognitive psychology in forensic contexts; technological methods to improve identification and testimony; media representations of crime; and application of alternative psychological approaches to forensic investigations
Year 4 (semester 8)
- Dissertation (annual module – part 2)
This module includes: design of empirical research in accordance with ethical requirements; review and critical evaluation of relevant literature; formulation of research hypotheses and development of research materials; data collection and analysis using appropriate methods; presentation and communication of results to the scientific community; writing of research papers following APA guidelines; critical evaluation of research quality and limitations; and application of professional skills throughout the preparation and completion of the dissertation - Big Challenges in Psychology
This module includes: consciousness and thinking in humans and non-human species; psychology of manipulation and control; community action and social change; the replication crisis and open science; conflicts and entrenched beliefs; social ecology and sustainability; psychology in criminal justice; myths and misconceptions about psychology; and the value and role of psychology graduates in modern society - Employability and Communication Skills in Bioscience
This module includes: science communication strategies for diverse audiences (e.g., funding bodies, European stakeholders, educational contexts); development of presentation and written communication skills; analysis and evaluation of scientific literature; enhancement of professional skills and employability competencies; and mapping potential career paths in research, education, and related fields - Neurodiversity in Society
This module includes: concept and theoretical frameworks of neurodiversity; variations in cognitive processing and social preferences; examples of neurodiversity (e.g., autism, dyslexia, sensory processing differences, gender diversity); behavioural expressions and neurobiological bases; media representations of neurodiversity; social misunderstandings and stereotypes; interaction between academic knowledge and societal understanding; critical assessment of impacts on social inclusion and inclusion policies; and communication of complex ideas to non-specialist audiences
Career Prospects
Graduates of the programme may pursue careers in:
Clinical or Counselling Psychology (with additional postgraduate training)
Research in Cognitive Neurosciences and Neuropsychology
Rehabilitation Centres and Mental Health and Support Services
Educational Psychology or Special Education
Data Analysis and Applied Research
Postgraduate Studies
Graduates of the Psychology with Neuroscience- BSc (Hons) Programme have the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in leading programmes in Greece or abroad.
Admission Requirements
Supporting Documents
• High School degree with a minimum grade of 12 and a grade mark of 14
in Biology or Chemistry, in second or third grade of High School
• An average grade in the four nationally examined subjects that is equal to or higher than the minimum admission grade (The minimum admission grade is calculated as 80% of the lowest average grade across all examined subjects within the relevant scientific field for the year in which the student sat the exams.)
• Letters of Recommendation
• Copy of Identity Card
• Passport photos
• Keele Greece Enrolment Application
The evaluation of the supporting documents is complemented by a personal interview with the candidates.
• Equivalent Level 4 secondary education qualifications, as well as international baccalaureates granting access to universities in the country of graduation, are also accepted.
• For graduates before 2021–2022 or holders of A’ cycle degrees, the criteria of the parent institution apply.