Psychology and Sociology

UCAS code: CL83

Here's what Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh says about its Psychology and Sociology course.

Who are we, and how do we shape our world? On this course you will explore the nature of the individual and society. You will learn the critical thinking skills that discerning employers are looking for in a variety of fields including business, health, media, education, social care and management.

Why QMU?

• We offer a stimulating environment in which students can develop the intellectual and professional edge needed for working with 21st century society, and in which our staff work on outward-facing, innovative and cross-disciplinary research.

• Our course is student-focused and research-informed. It offers students the opportunity to work closely with staff on current, real-world projects and collaborations.

• Our class sizes are smaller compared with some universities, so you have closer and more personal support and guidance from our staff.

• We came top amongst UK universities for 'overall student satisfaction in social sciences' in the National Student Survey 2021.

• Through the unique integration of sociology and psychology teaching through combined ‘hybrid’ modules, we have developed a highly innovative and unique joint degree which is aligned to QMU’s strategic goal to provide distinctive, accessible and high quality education.

On this course you will:

• Learn to use social scientific methods and evidence to make sense of human behaviour.

• Learn how to think and write critically, giving you skills that can be valuable in many fields.

• Have opportunities to go into communities and apply your skills and knowledge in a real-world context and reflect upon the ways that psychological and sociological knowledge can effect real change in people’s everyday lives.

Are you fascinated by human nature, by who we are and how we interact? Do you want to understand what impacts the shape of society around us and how it could be changed for the better? Then you will enjoy our joint course in psychology and sociology as it provides a challenging and stimulating environment for exploring these questions around the individual and society.

Studying psychology and sociology will allow you to explore a large and fascinating world, the fundamental nature of human beings and how that nature shapes our social environment. You will engage with debates about the practical, theoretical and ethical issues associated with the use of different methodologies, paradigms and methods of analysis applied in each of the disciplines, and their relevance and value for different communities and publics.

Year One

Introduction to Psychology 1 Foundations of Psychology: Core Concepts and Practices Introduction to Academia The Sociological Imagination 1 – Classical and Contemporary Sociological Theories and Concepts Introduction to Psychology 2 The Sociological Imagination 2 – Diversity, Identity and Wellbeing

Year Two

Current Debates in Sociology Material Culture Exploring Research Self & Identity Individual Difference, Wellbeing and Ethical Practice Biological and Cognitive Psychology

Year Three

Interaction & Social Order Sociology of Knowledge & Science Cognitive Psychology Developmental Psychology Sociological and Psychological Approaches to Social Movements Research Skills

Year Four

Dissertation (in Psychology, Sociology or both) two Sociology option modules two psychology option modules

Sociology option modules:

Sociology of Liberation European Policy and Politics Queer Theory, Gender and Sexual Politics Gender Justice and Violence Feminist Approaches

Psychology option modules:

Eyewitness Testimony Evolutionary Psychology Volunteering and Community Engagement Psychology of Pain

The modules listed here are correct at time of posting (Feb 2024) but may differ slightly to those offered in 2025. Please check back here for any updates.

You will be taught in lectures, seminars, practical workshops and laboratories. Outside these timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning through self-study. Your work will be assessed using a number of techniques, including essay writing, presentations, report writing, critical reflections and examinations.