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Psychology at UEA
Find out more about studying Psychology at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBSc (Hons) Developmental Psychology with a Year Abroad
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C86A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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14th
UEA is ranked 14th overall for research quality in Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience
Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
Why Developmental Psychology with a Year Abroad at UEA?
Explore how people develop cognitively, emotionally and socially from infancy to adulthood and discover what shapes typical and atypical development. Enhance your degree with the opportunity to study abroad.
Why choose UEA
- Specialist facilities: Your studies are supported by our BPS‑commended, nationally excellent specialist facilities
- Strong support: Before you arrive, you’ll have access to a four‑week online pre‑arrival module designed to ease your transition into university life
- Integrated learning: Understand how different psychological ideas fit together, gaining a deeper understanding of human behaviour
What is BSc Developmental Psychology with a Year Abroad?
You’ll explore how babies and children develop thinking, language, memory and social-emotional skills and how early experiences shape learning and wellbeing.
You’ll study both neurotypical and neurodivergent development, including autism and ADHD and explore the factors that influence development across the lifespan. You’ll also learn research techniques used to study development at different stages.
In year three you’ll study abroad at one of our exciting global partner institutions. Our course is flexible, so you can switch to another specialised psychology route or to BSc Psychology before the end of year two. In year one, you can also switch to the Placement degree, subject to availability and academic requirements.
You’ll learn from expert developmental psychology researchers whose work shapes what you study. Through lectures, small-group teaching and guidance from your academic adviser, you’ll build confidence as an independent thinker. You’ll develop strong communication skills and learn how to apply psychological knowledge to real-world questions.
Beyond the classroom, you can get involved in research, volunteering, internships and student societies such as PsySoc. UEA is an inclusive and vibrant community, offering so much more than academic studies.
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Year Abroad
On this Developmental Psychology programme, you'll spend your third year studying abroad before returning to UEA for your final year. A year abroad is a unique, fulfilling experience that will help you develop skills you’ll use throughout your career, and that are coveted by employers. You can choose from a broad range of partner universities across Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Accreditations
This course is accredited against the requirements for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Careers
Career Pathways
With a degree in BSc Developmental Psychology with a Year Abroad, you could launch a career as a:
- Education Mental Health Practitioner: support children and young people with mild to moderate mental health needs in schools and community settings
- Assistant Psychologist: support qualified psychologists in delivering assessments, interventions and research across health, education or social care
- Neurodevelopmental Assessment Practitioner: help assess developmental profiles and contribute to diagnostic pathways for conditions such as autism and ADHD
- Family Support Worker: work directly with families to promote children’s wellbeing, development and safety
- Human Resources Officer: recruit staff, supports employee wellbeing and helps organisations manage people and workplace culture
Career Support
You’ll build your skills and experience through embedded careers activities and support from the school and the University’s Careers Service. You’ll have the opportunity to take part in the UEA Award, which helps you recognise your strengths and present them confidently to employers. You can apply for internships, paid placements and volunteering opportunities, including roles linked to research projects. You’ll also benefit from events such as the PITCH business training challenge and dedicated online resources highlighting opportunities as they arise. All our degrees are accredited by the British Psychological Society, supporting progression to postgraduate training in psychology.
Explore more at School of Psychology employability.
After the Course
A degree in Developmental Psychology gives you a strong foundation for postgraduate study and professional training in areas such as educational psychology, clinical psychology, mental health practice and specialist neurodevelopmental roles. Many graduates go on to work directly with children, young people and families, while others use their research, communication and analytical skills in sectors like education, health, social care, policy, HR and the charity sector. Whatever path you choose, you’ll leave UEA with the knowledge, experience and confidence to make a real difference in people’s lives. And our support doesn’t end at graduation; your University Careers Service continues to support you for up to three years beyond your degree, so you can take your next steps with confidence.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll study one integrated core module that will provide a firm foundation for developing your understanding of psychological theory, research and its application. Our integrated approach emphasises how knowledge from different branches of psychology can be applied to give different perspectives on real-world issues. Teaching sessions are organised around themes and cover topics such as explaining behaviour, understanding yourself, applying psychology to the real world, questioning reality and constructing psychology You’ll also discover specific methods for the study of psychology, as you begin developing research skills and a critical perspective.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll continue studying compulsory modules designed to develop your understanding of different branches of psychology. These include modules in research methods on which you’ll consolidate your knowledge of research design, qualitative analysis and statistics, which prepare you for your final-year independent project.
Alongside these, you’ll have the opportunity to choose an optional module from a published list. This could be a psychology module or an option from outside the school which may be relevant to your career or other interests. For example, you could take a creative writing module or a business module (providing it fits in with your timetable and you meet any module prerequisite criteria).
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll complete a substantial developmental research project, reflecting your intellectual interests and career aspirations. You’ll be supported by a developmental supervisor with expertise in your area of research. They’ll help you use your research skills to plan and produce a project drawing on a specific form of data gathering and analysis. This could be focused on interviewing, survey work and/or experimental design, in the laboratory and/or in applied contexts.
You’ll take a core developmental module, and choose two further modules in your specialism, deepening your specialist knowledge. Your final optional module can be chosen from a wide range of psychology subjects, or an option outside the school.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, small‑group activities and your own independent study, supported by hands‑on research experience. Our approach emphasises psychology as a science, underpinned by research methods and helps you grow into an independent, creative and critical thinker and problem solver. You’ll be taught by active researchers who bring current insights into your learning. Throughout your degree you’ll be supported by your individual academic advisor, the Learning Enhancement Team and the University’s Wellbeing Support Services, ensuring you have guidance on study skills, academic development and personal support when you need it.
In year one, you’ll learn to question ideas, evaluate evidence and develop your academic voice through guided tasks and collaborative research activities.
In year two, you’ll deepen your understanding of core social psychology topics and broaden your knowledge through your optional module choice. You’ll develop your research skills from year one to prepare you for your independent research project in your final year. You’ll also take part in our employability-focused Psychological Insights and Teamwork Challenge (PITCH) day, applying psychological knowledge to real-world problems while developing teamwork, communication, problem solving and other professional skills valued by employers.
In year three, you’ll take modules at your host university, experiencing a variety of teaching and learning.
You’ll shape your final year through specialist Developmental Psychology modules and a supervised research project that reflects your interests. Your expert individual project supervisor will support you as you design a study that inspires you and builds your confidence as an independent researcher.
Assessment
Our assessments are designed to help you build a strong, transferable skillset. Formative tasks give you the chance to practice key skills and receive feedback before completing your marked assignments. Your academic advisor will support you throughout your degree, helping you use feedback to build confidence and develop your academic work.
Assessment types may include essays, research reports, proposals, case studies, reflective tasks, short presentations, evaluative conversations or briefing papers, depending on your module choices, as well as exams.
In year three, you'll undertake assessments set by the host institution.
In your final back at UEA, you’ll also complete an independent research project, with an opportunity to receive formative feedback before submitting your final work.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3.
Contextual Offer: Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
English language at UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window)
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- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees webpage.
Extra costs, related to items such as your travel and accommodation during your year abroad, will vary depending on location.
Please see additional course fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: