Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Business Psychology
Explore the science of human behaviour and how to improve workplace productivity and efficiency.
How do people think, perceive and feel? Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. As a Business Psychology student, you apply psychological theories, methods and processes to real business issues and questions including leadership, corporate crime, gig economy and health and well-being.
Our Association for Business Society (ABP) accredited degree enables you to confront the issues that humans face in life and in work with psychology's scientific principles.
Four Business Psychology students presented their winning solutions to workplace allyship at the ABP BizPsych Cup.
Kent ranked 16th for Psychology in the UK for graduate prospects in The Complete University Guide 2023.
Our Research Participation Scheme is the first opportunity for students to engage with research in the labs.
Our course is accredited by the Association for Business Psychology which offers professional certification.
The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications. Click below to find out more. Please also see our general entry requirements.
Typical entry requirements for 2023 entry courses remain published on the UCAS course search website. These provide a rough guide to our likely entry requirements for Clearing and Adjustment applicants.
During Clearing (after 5 July), our entry requirements change in real time to reflect the supply and demand of remaining course vacancies and so may be higher or lower than those published on UCAS as typical entry grades.
Our Clearing vacancy list will be updated regularly as courses move in and out of Clearing, so please check regularly to see if we have any places available. See our Clearing website for more details on how Clearing works at Kent.
The following modules are offered to our current students. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation:
SP300 is concerned with methodology in psychology, with statistics in psychology, and how they interact. In the lectures, relevant topics in methodology and statistics are introduced over the course of the year (examples are design considerations, counterbalancing, sample versus population, descriptive statistics, histograms, summary statistics, hypothesis testing). There are a number of dedicated lectures looking at how the psychological literature reflects the methodological and statistical issues that have been addressed in the lectures, and how researchers have balanced the requirements of methods, statistics and theory-driven investigation
This module provides students with an introduction to the methods, techniques and issues of cognitive and biological psychology. The module covers the historical development of cognitive psychology as a science, the brain processes which underlie human behaviour and behavioural genetics. The module focuses on the cognitive processes of learning, thought, perception, memory, attention, intelligence, psychopathology and disorders of cognition. Each topic includes a brief overview of its historical development before introducing students to the current theories, methods and issues. The module is taught through lectures and the accompanying psychology specific skills seminars.
This module, along with other Stage 1 psychology modules, provides a foundation for Stages 2 and 3. It will provide students with an introduction to the methods, techniques and issues involved in the study of social psychology and developmental psychology. The emphasis of the module is on theory as the foundation of an empirical discipline and the importance of scientific methodology. It highlights the interplay between theory, research, and application in both social psychology and developmental psychology. In one part of the module, focus is placed on core theories and research in, as well as applications of, social psychology. In the other part of the module, focus is placed on core theories and research in, as well as applications of, developmental psychology. Each part begins with an overview of the historical development of the subject before introducing students to current theories and methods.
This module will introduce students to key topics about Psychology in the workplace such as leadership, corporate crime, and workplace motivation – there will be a focus on the application of psychology to real business issues and questions, and lectures will focus on expertise within the School of Psychology at Kent. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important business, work, and organisational issues, and (2) key research methods common in work and organization psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the application of psychology to core work and organisational issues.
The Research Participation Scheme (RPS) enables students commencing their training in Psychology to gain experience with academic research through participation in studies conducted by staff and other students who are more advanced in their studies (i.e., Final Year, MSc, PhD). Students enrolled in the RPS accumulate credits that correspond to the time spent participating in studies. All studies offered via the RPS have received independent ethical approval and comply with the BPS Code of Human Research Ethics.
This module will provide you with the fundamental skills needed to succeed in degree-level psychology. As well as explicit training in the mechanics of academic writing, referencing, and critical thinking, it will give you a thorough grounding in the psychology of effective learning, considering key topics from cognitive psychology (e.g. memory, attention) in terms of how they relate to successful study strategies.
This module will introduce students to key topics in Forensic Psychology including the development of offending, the rehabilitation of offenders, the criminal justice system, criminal statistics, policing, and the public response to crime. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important forensic issues, and (2) key research methods common in forensic psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the important forensic psychological issues outlined.
You have the opportunity to select elective modules in this stage.
The broad aims of the module are: (a) to provide a continued training in methodological skills appropriate to psychological investigation; (b) to provide advanced training in statistical techniques of the analysis of psychological data; (c) to provide training in computing skills for conducting analysis of psychological data; and (d) to provide direct experience of some of the phenomena encountered in other Stage 2/3 psychology modules.
The practical component of the module consists of a structured course of laboratory classes and non-laboratory sessions during which students work in small supervised groups designing and carrying out four research projects related to themes encountered in the department's other Stage 2/3 modules. A course of statistics lectures and computing workshops is closely linked to the practical classes. Computer–based statistical analysis is illustrated using R/RStudio, an open source statistical package.
The Research Participation Scheme (RPS) enables students commencing their training in Psychology to gain experience with academic research through participation in studies conducted by staff and other students who are more advanced in their studies (i.e., Final Year, MSc, PhD). Students enrolled in the RPS accumulate credits that correspond to the time spent participating in studies. All studies offered via the RPS have received independent ethical approval and comply with the BPS Code of Human Research Ethics.
The module provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories and scientific discoveries in personality and individual differences, attitudes and social cognition, and the social psychology of group processes, interpersonal relationships and intergroup relations. It emphasises findings from systematic empirical research in both field and laboratory settings and focuses on key topics in classic and current research. Possible topics include mental abilities, emotions, self-esteem, the self, political attitudes, attraction, stability and change in personality and attitudes, social influence, leadership, social identity, prejudice, and prejudice reduction.
We will consider what personality is, why it differs between people, and what impact personality and individual differences have on life outcomes. We will also focus on the impact of perceptions of the self, others, and groups on attitudes and behaviour within close relationships, within groups and between groups.
This module will provide students with theoretical instruction and opportunities for critical evaluation in abnormal psychology. It will examine the origins and identification of different forms of atypical cognitions and behaviours and investigate the psychological and social impact for patients. It will cover some of the major mental health disorders, focusing primarily on what research has to say about their social/cognitive/biological bases and the implications they have for treatment. In addition, the module will describe several methodological approaches, ask fundamental questions about the meaning of normality. The historical developments in this field will be examined and current interventions and treatments will feature highly in this module.
This module will research the changing world of work and work options, for example paid, self-employed, portfolio, part time and gift work-against the context of such challenges as the financial/banking crisis, global warming, the neo-liberal economic model and the alternatives.
This module examines behaviour, performance, and health and well-being of individuals in work and organisational situations. Teaching focuses, with varying emphasis, on the areas of psychological assessment, work design and organisational change, health and well-being, and positive and negative aspects of performance. Overall the aim is of the module is to provide an in-depth knowledge and understanding of core topics in business psychology.
Students will attend up to four talks/workshops specifically relating to careers in Business Psychology (e.g. talks by consultant psychologists; recruitment agents). They will also participate in the Academic Peer Mentoring scheme as mentees. They will be required to keep a log book of all personal and professional development activities. This reflective practice enhances students' development, provides a record of activities for their CV, and contributes to employability.
The focus of this module is on understanding how children develop. Understanding something of the processes of developmental change is a central part of any psychology degree, and by the end of this module you should be in a better position to understand the significance of child development for human psychology. As the course progresses we will move from issues germane to early infancy, through childhood and the associated social, cognitive and emotional changes the child experiences during that period, concluding with an overall look at the bigger picture.
You have the opportunity to select elective modules in this stage.
This module offers an exciting opportunity to learn more about cutting-edge research into groups.
You will understand and apply group research to social policy, business, politics, marketing, etc. and get the chance to consider current affairs and personal experiences with the opportunity for small group discussions and team work. Example topics: alcohol and group processes, leadership, organisational identity, improving cooperation in groups.
This module complements the focus of BSc degree on basic (fundamental) psychological research by providing training in applied psychology. The module equips students with an understanding of what is meant by applied psychology, of the domains in which psychology can be applied (e.g., in business, education, health, and the law), and decision rules governing applied psychology such as the balance between the cost and risks inherent in an intervention with its benefits. It would also introduce students to ethical, logistical, and methodological challenges in applied psychology. Students are also introduced to the history and philosophy of applied psychology, for example contrasting humanistic and behaviourist approaches to intervention, and a consideration of the role of socially constructed "value" in the application of science (for example, how prejudice versus homosexuality have waxed and waned as “problems” warranting psychological intervention according to prevailing social values).
The module will systematically explore common logical and psychological barriers to understanding and critically analysing empirical research. Major topics to be considered include common fallacies of deductive and inductive reasoning, judgmental heuristics relevant to evaluating empirical research claims, essentials of a scientific method, misleading statistical and graphical techniques, establishing genuine associations, the role of inferential statistics for identifying illusory associations, essentials of causal inference, threats to the validity of experimental and non experimental research.
All students are required to carry out a piece of psychological research on a specific topic, and to then present it as a report that adheres to the conventions of academic Psychology.
This module focuses on practical aspects of applying psychology to work and organisations. The module combines teaching of conceptual frameworks with opportunities to engage in evidence-based practice through case studies, project work and/or participation in peer mentoring.
The diversity and complexity of primate sociality is reflected in the diversity and complexity of their communication strategies. This module complements the module ANTB5800 (SE580) 'Primate Behaviour & Ecology' by examining the ways in which primates communicate with one another through olfactory, tactile, visual, and acoustic signals. We will address fundamental questions in animal communication including: Is it appropriate to characterize such communication in terms of information transfer? How does communication evolve? What maintains signal honesty, and under what conditions can deceptive communication can evolve? The module will cover the physical and biological bases of signal production and perception. We will explore the extent to which studies of primate communication can provide a window into their minds. Finally, we will delve into the question of the relevance of primate communication for understanding the evolution of human language.
The module introduces students to behavioural economics, which combines economic analysis with insights from psychology to understand human behaviour. It will start by briefly presenting the classical model of rational, selfish economic agents, outlining limitations of this model in predicting and explaining behaviour. Thereafter, it will introduce students to models which relax assumptions of the classical model, incorporating insights from psychology instead, and cover evidence on the power of these behavioural models in explaining human behaviour. Finally, it will cover the implications of these models for the design of public policy.
This module aims to help students develop an understanding of clinical psychology by exploring the theory behind the main theoretical orientations utilised by those in the field. Initially students will be introduced to the three main schools of thought: psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural and systemic. Thereafter, more contemporary approaches and specific therapies will be presented. This module will help prepare students for the rich variety of psychological thinking in mental health and clinical psychology. This may be particularly relevant to aspiring clinical psychologists.
This module provides an opportunity to study the literature on motivation, inspired by a wide range of psychological perspectives (e.g., Evolutionary Psychology, Social Psychology, and Existential Experimental Psychology). In this, we will consider what motivates human cognition and behaviour. Specifically we will consider; (a) General Theories of Human Evolution & Motivation(b) Biological Perspectives (c) The self and Self-regulation (d) Human Mating Strategies, (e) Embodiment, (f) Threat Management, (g) Emotion, (h) Religion and Illusion, (i) The Modern Unconscious (j).. Moreover, the module will introduce students to experimental methods and measures applied in the field of research on human motivation. Finally, applications of theory and findings on human motivation to applied settings (e.g., daily life) are discussed
This module will build upon the cognitive theories and research methods explored at stages 1 and 2. It will focus on several forms of neurological deficit each of which affects a different domain of cognition. Students will learn about how different strands of neuroscientific research, relating to behaviour, cognition, anatomy, and physiology, have both advanced our understanding of human neuropsychology, and informed on the design of relevant intervention strategies.
You have the opportunity to select elective modules in this stage.
Modules are taught by weekly lectures, workshops, small group seminars and project supervision. The Psychology Statistics and Practical modules include laboratory practical sessions, statistics classes, computing classes and lectures in statistics and methodology.
Most modules are assessed by examination and coursework in equal measure. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks count towards your final degree result. Our assessment methods are varied and will include, but are not limited to, examinations, written assignments and essays, group work and oral presentations
For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
For programme aims and learning outcomes please see the programme specification.
The School of Psychology has valuable links with educational establishments, hospitals and prisons in the area, offering you the possibility of both visits and work placements. Our experience schemes allow students to either gain practical experience of ongoing research projects or to gain an insight into the workplace and the local community.
Business Psychology graduates can go on to work as a:
The 2023/24 annual tuition fees for this course are:
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.
The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of A*AA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.
We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.
Student life
Kent ranked top 50 in the The Complete University Guide 2023 and The Times Good University Guide 2023.
Free membership for undergraduates living on campus in 2023.
Kent has risen 11 places in THE’s REF 2021 ranking, confirming us as a leading research university.
Accommodation
