Foundation Degree in Psychology

About this course

Psychology is an exciting, real-world science and this course provides a unique insight into how we behave. Many jobs put psychology into practice; from management and human resources to managing a factory shop floor, or running a business.

The only one of its kind in the region, this course combines academic study with work placements designed to highlight the range of different careers available. You will also have the opportunity to try out specialist equipment and scientific software, and attend guest sessions at the University of South Wales’s Pontypridd Campus.

Completion of the first year leads to a Cert HE, completion of both years means students are eligible to top up to a full degree by joining the second year of the BSc Psychology course at the University of South Wales.

How to Apply: You apply for this course via UCAS. The ‘Apply Now’ button will take you to the UCAS course page.
You will need the following details:
Course Code – GP01, Institution Code – C16, Campus Code - B, Campus Name – Barry Campus
For further information visit Completing your UCAS application.

What you will study

This course will teach you about different psychological approaches, help you to develop skills for researching psychology based issues, and you will learn how to apply theory through a preparation for work module.

Year 1

Theoretical Approaches to Psychology
Introduction to Research Using Statistics in Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Psychology in Everyday Life
Biological Psychology
Individual Differences and Learning

Year 2

Professional Practice and Employability
Social Psychology
Development in Childhood and Adolescence
Advanced Research Using Statistics in Psychology
Psychological Disorders

A key theme of this programme is preparation for the world of work which includes guest lectures, case studies and class simulations in addition to traditional lectures, seminars and workshops. In year 2 students also complete 70 placement hours in fields related to psychology which helps to put theory into practice and broadens your understanding of related career paths. Assessment will be via essays, group work, research projects, presentations and portfolios.

Course fee per year

DBS Check: £45.04

Tuition Fees: £7,500.00

Entry requirements

Applications to the course will be considered on an individual basis. Typical entry requirements are detailed below but if you don’t meet these criteria, then your work and life experience will be taken into consideration. Combinations of the qualifications below are acceptable and other qualifications not listed may also be acceptable. Typical A-Level Offer

DD Typical BTEC Offer
relevant BTEC level 3 profile of Merit/Pass or Pass/Pass/Pass

Typical Welsh Bacc Offer

The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in place of one A-Level at the grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements.

Typical Access to HE Offer

Pass Diploma with 45 level 3 credits all Passes

Additionally, GCSE passes in three subjects at grade C or above to include Mathematics and English Language (or equivalent). A successful interview may also be a requirement for entry onto the course.

Important points

The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.