BSc Psychological and Behavioural Science

Why do people think and behave the way they do in certain situations? What role does our environment have on decision-making? How does an individual’s behaviour affect wider society? These are all questions explored on our BSc Psychological and Behavioural Science.

This programme is unusual in bringing together psychology and behavioural science in one degree and exploring these subjects from both social science and natural science perspectives. As well as developing your core knowledge, you’ll learn how psychological and behavioural science theories can be applied in the real world to address social issues in areas such as health and education.

You’ll learn how to conduct high-quality empirical research, including research design and qualitative approaches such as interviews and focus groups. You’ll also study statistical analysis and interpretation and learn how to present your findings effectively.

LSE was recently ranked number one in the UK for Psychology in the Good University Guide. Our graduates progress to rewarding and interesting careers in government, NGOs and the private sector – contributing to national and international policy debates.

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

You'll be eligible for Graduate Based Chartered (GBC) Membership if you gain a lower second classification (2:2) overall and pass your independent research project in Year 3.

Whilst studying, you'll also be able to join the British Psychological Society as a student member and take advantage of a range of benefits.

• P O Gray and D F Bjorklund Psychology (7th edition, Worth, 2014)
• M A Hogg and G M Vaughan Social Psychology (7th edition, Pearson, 2013)
• D Kahneman Thinking, Fast and Slow (Penguin, 2012)

The Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science is a growing community of researchers, academics and students who explore the human mind and behaviour in a societal context.

From our early beginnings as a group of researchers studying psychology and society 50 years ago, the department is now home to an interdisciplinary faculty team conducting wide-ranging research.

Today, our research spans:

• social psychology
• behavioural economics
• political psychology
• organisational culture
• consumer behaviour
• public engagement
• community development
• global health, happiness and well-being.

Our research is connected with what is happening in the world today. The outputs impact policy, business and society at large. This focus on real-world issues sets our department, and LSE, apart from other institutions and our students inform and inspire the direction of our work.

We offer various taught programmes and research opportunities, ranging from our BSc in Psychological and Behavioural Science to doctoral training – all with an emphasis on practical, policy-related issues.

By maintaining this focus on real-world issues and societal impact, our department leads the way with innovative research in the field, the lab and everywhere in between.

So, whether you want to study, research or teach, you’ll find a supportive and inspirational community where you can contribute to global debates and change.

Learn more about our programmes and research.

Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science

We consider each application carefully, taking into account all the details you’ve included on your UCAS form, such as:

• academic achievement, including predicted and achieved grades (also see specific information about this programme in the "entry requirements" above)
• subjects and subject combinations (also see specific information about this programme in the "entry requirements" above)
• your personal statement
• your teacher’s reference
• educational circumstances

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency, although this is not needed at the application stage. See our English language requirements page.

We’re looking for students who demonstrate:

• an interest in both psychology and behavioural science
• strong analytical abilities
• high levels of numeracy
• intellectual curiosity
• an ability to evaluate and critically assess complex issues
• an ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity
• attention to detail.

Formative coursework

All taught courses include formative coursework, which is not assessed. This helps prepare you for summative assessment. We use a wide range of formative assessment methods, such as essays, case studies, reports, quizzes and mock exams.

Feedback on coursework is an essential part of the learning experience. Class teachers mark formative coursework and feedback is normally given within two weeks – provided the work is submitted on time.

Summative assessment

This assessment counts towards your final course mark and degree award.

Summative assessment usually involves a written examination for each course at the end of the academic year. Some courses also have written examinations in January while others are assessed partly by essays or other work submitted during the year.

Assessment on individual courses can change from year to year. Read more about the current formative coursework and summative assessment for each course in the relevant course guide.

Find out more about LSE’s teaching and assessment methods.

Likely graduate employment sectors for this programme include communications, public policy, management consultancy, international development, charities and NGOs, organisational development and change, behavioural insights research, teaching, mass media, marketing and finance.

From CV workshops through to careers fairs, LSE offers lots of information and support to help you make that all-important step from education into work.

Many of the UK’s top employers give careers presentations at the School during the year and there are numerous workshops covering topics such as job hunting, managing interviews, writing a cover letter and using LinkedIn.

See LSE Careers for further details.