Oxford – Psychology (Experimental)

This course investigates the science behind a human’s mental life and addresses a wide range of questions surrounding human nature, perception, and learning. A lot of research takes place on this course, and the Psychology Department, one of the leading departments in the UK (currently ranked top in the Complete University Guide subject rankings), offers excellent teaching and facilities for this, as well as being home to renowned research groups. This is a medium-sized course with an average annual intake of almost 60 and it is competitive, with just 13% of applicants being successful. Almost 80% of applicants are female and 74% of UK students admitted are female, making Experimental Psychology the second most female dominated subject at Oxford.

A psychology student will typically have a week made up of lectures, laboratory classes, and tutorials. In the first year, a range of topics are covered to create a good base for subsequent years. First year options include Psychology, Philosophy, Linguistics, Neurophysiology, and Probability Theory and Statistics. By the time a student gets to their third year, they have the option to write a dissertation or complete a research project. Practical work takes place through lab-based group projects and skills training (for example, science communication skills).

If desired, a student can stay for an optional fourth year to receive a Master’s degree. This year involves a research project, either a clinical or translation task.

There are no specific A Level (or equivalent) requirements for this course but it is recommended to take at least one science subject (Psychology included) or Maths.