Overview

The details
Location: Online Mode of study: Part-time Qualification: BSc (Hons) Indicative duration: 4 years
Start date:
Awarding body: University of Essex Delivered by: Kaplan Open Learning For queries: Call +44 (0) 1206 489 358

Take an in depth look at the fascinating world of business psychology with this undergraduate programme. Focusing on real life situations you will gain an understanding of the psychological behaviours of people in business or organisation contexts.

This course will allow you to immerse yourself in a variety of unique and interesting topics including psychological development through the lifespan, leadership and managing teams, as well as individual differences, emotions and behaviours.

You will learn to apply knowledge of the human mind and behaviour to investigate fundamental business functions, as well as adopting core psychological theories to understand organisational change, effective leadership, recruitment and selection, and corporate decision-making.

The fascinating range of topics you will explore include:

  • the study of the social factors that impact on individual’s lives
  • explaining why people differ from one another
  • how organisations are built and how they behave as a result
  • relationships among an organisation’s culture, its leadership, and its employees
  • the dynamic roles of management in the area of human resources

Finally, you’ll be able to build on your research skills acquired during the programme through your final project on a business psychology topic that is of personal interest to you.

Please note: This programme is not accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). If you would like to study a BPS accredited course, please see our BSc (Hons) Psychology.

Why we’re great

  • Our courses involve a range of technical competencies which can be applied immediately to the real world, making you an asset to any team or employer.
  • Graduates of the course will have a holistic understanding of both business and psychology in addition to a wide range of transferable skills including critical thinking, research, self-motivation and communication.
  • On this course you can choose optional modules to tailor your learning to your personal interests.

Course structure

The BSc (Hons) Business Psychology is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 360 credits.

Optional modules: choose one at Level 4.

This engaging module encourages you to develop the competencies required for higher online education learning, such as academic styles of writing. You’ll also critically reflect on your personal development while learning about key psychological areas – including cognitive psychology’s theory of learning styles.  

This defining module provides you with the toolkit to analyse how we process, store and use information about ourselves and others. You’ll learn about the role of social psychologists and explore the ethical principles of research and conduct set by the British Psychological Society.  

Explore the complexities of human resource management in this insightful module. You’ll gain a critical understanding of HR theories and practices in a global context, as well as a deeper awareness of ideologies within a wider social, political and economic setting. You’ll also consider the strategic influences of stakeholders on business performance. 

Ready to discover more about brain behaviour, human memory and cognition? This exciting module will broaden your knowledge by introducing you to the history and science behind cognitive psychology. You’ll learn how to apply cognitive psychology to other disciplines and find out more about relevant research and theories within this fascinating field. 

This valuable module examines the modern marketing environment and the four main decision-making areas to consider in business. You’ll then progress into interesting psychological aspects, such as buyer behaviour and consumer influence, while developing an understanding of the role of marketing in society as a whole.  

Gain hands-on and transferable research skills, and strengthen your knowledge of data collection and analysis. In this valuable module, you’ll develop a capacity to select appropriate analytical techniques and test hypotheses. You’ll also conduct a literary review to further deepen your understanding of relevant theory within social science research.  

By studying this thought-provoking module, you’ll understand why people are different from each other and explore the avenues to critically evaluate and measure these differences. You'll learn fundamentals of psychometrics and take the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and present a theory-based personality assessment.   

Distinguish between the role of leader and manager, and understand how to establish effective teams to increase motivation in the workplace. This valuable module will also develop your understanding of effective communication channels leaders employ, as well as the overall communication process. 

Biological psychology is an intricately complex area, covering functions of the human brain and physiological processes. In this exciting module, you’ll explore breakthrough advances and current debates within the field, as well as gain an understanding of the science behind human thoughts, feeling and behaviour.  

The field of cognitive neuropsychology gives you an exciting opportunity to further explore the biological processes which determine human behaviour. In this in-depth module, you’ll make links between the history of cognitive psychology, your previous studies, and our current understanding of the mechanisms concerning brain dysfunction and mental processes.  

This fascinating module provides insight into organisational culture and contemporary models of leadership. You’ll examine effective leadership attributes and approaches to managing change across people, processes and culture – so that by the end, you’ll be able to successfully evaluate the leader’s role in change management.  

Have you ever wondered why people differ from one another? Discover the answers in this thought-provoking module. You’ll start by studying personality and intelligence, and explore the topics of mood, motivation and how those constructs influence behaviour. Throughout the module you’ll also build a strong understanding of the principles of psychometrics. 

Gain an understanding of organisational development in this insightful module. You’ll analyse the instigation and implementation of planned change – and by using theory and behavioural science, you’ll learn the ways organisations use decision making and problem solving in the most effective way possible. 

Statistics are at the heart of psychology, as they help us to summarise data and quickly identify trends. In fact, psychologists use data for objective, systematic description and interpretation of research results. This defining module teaches you about the most commonly used statistical techniques, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge in future practice. 

Ready to explore major developmental milestones from a variety of theoretical perspectives? On this fascinating module, you'll examine the principles of cognitive, social, biological, and emotional psychology, with the aim of understanding the impact of developmental stages on human behaviour. 

What is consumer behaviour and how does it impact marketing strategy? In this valuable module, you'll analyse the concepts of consumer research, market segmentation and motivation – while focusing on individual personality, perceptions, attitudes and learning. Identify the influence of groups on consumer behaviour and evaluate the consumer decision-making process. 

Like many subjects, psychology has its critics. In this insightful module, you’ll discover how taking psychological research and studies at face value could lead to false assumptions and flawed understanding. You'll explore how viewing psychology as a political tool that serves some more than others makes critical social psychology integral to a real-world view of this fascinating subject.  

What are the unique abilities humans have? Find out in this stimulating module. You’ll discover the fascinating areas of human development – including neuroscience, perception, cognition, emotion and social interaction. That way, you’ll be confident in evaluating human development from multiple perspectives. 

Does the working environment affect performance? Throughout this engaging module, you’ll discover how organisations, individuals and groups of people learn, perform, function and thrive. You’ll then have the opportunity to apply this knowledge to your own workplace performance and that of others. 

Hone your strategic management skills with this exciting module. You’ll benefit from an engaging introduction to the key theories, approaches and concepts which form business strategy. Not only that, you’ll learn to critically evaluate the limitations of emerging schools of thoughts and how to they best work in practice. 

Examine the development of international marketing strategy as a planned response to the global business environment. In this defining module, you’ll develop a solid understanding and appreciation of the underlying theories of international marketing, and critically assess the various steps taken by an organisation when looking to internationalise.  

Gain a theoretical understanding of the factors that affect decision-making in individual and organisational contexts. In this helpful module, you’ll think critically about the principles of effective reasoning and evaluate the evidence for the trainability of thinking skills, rationality and performance. 

This defining module allows you to demonstrate the skills you’ve learned throughout your studies. With the support of your supervisor, you’ll conduct a final project on a topic of your interest – providing an ideal opportunity for you to expand on your key research skills and apply the research, knowledge and analysis skills you already possess. 

Learning and assessments

Teaching methods

Studying online gives you the freedom to study when and where it suits you – at home, during your lunch hour or anywhere else you have internet access.  

Our courses are delivered through a virtual learning environment (VLE) instead of a traditional campus. This means you’ll have access to your study materials 24/7, including:  

  • multimedia lecturecasts made up of written content, short videos, animation, audio recordings, infographics, short tests and mini-assignments 
  • discussion forums for you to chat about the course content with fellow students 
  • live seminars and Q&A sessions with your tutors 
  • a comprehensive eLibrary of textbooks and academic journals  
  • support from academic staff and your dedicated Student Support team 

 

Assessments

You’ll be assessed through a series of assignments. This can be by engaging in discussion forums throughout your modules, completing reflective journal entries, delivering live presentations or by submitting longer written pieces. 

We’re committed to providing frequent and transparent feedback in the following ways: 

  • our assessment criteria are designed to be simple and transparent 
  • you’ll always be aware of your current provisional grade, right from the start of the programme 
  • you’ll be able to view your marks clearly in your gradebook whenever you log into the learning platform 
  • there’s a 7-day turnaround for marking and feedback of assessed work 
  • you’ll have regular contact with your Student Support team, with whom you can discuss any concerns as soon as they arise 

 

Online learning experience 

Your learning experience will be fully supported by high-quality learning materials and resources, delivered via our state-of-the-art virtual learning environment (VLE).  

On average, your learning experience will include the following: 

  • directed learning (40%) – this includes participating in tutor-led discussions and seminars, completing interactive exercises on the VLE, and watching videos and lecturecasts. You’ll also be able to book appointments with your module tutor during their office hours, which can be found on the VLE 
  • self-directed learning (30%) – including undertaking wider reading and research in your area of study to develop your understanding of the subject area 
  • assessment (30%) – time spent preparing ad completing assignments and activities that contribute towards your overall assessment. 

Typically, you’ll need to dedicate a minimum 15-20 hours of study per module, per week. 

 

Study duration

Our BSc (Hons) Business Psychology has an indicative study duration of 4 years, which is a guide to how long your course will take to complete. The actual duration may be longer or shorter depending on your speed of study, study options chosen and module availability.  

It’s possible to complete your studies faster than the indicative course duration by doubling up on modules at certain times; however, minimum study durations do apply.  

Our academic year is organised into modules, typically with a one or two-week break between modules and a structured three-week break for the Christmas period. Students will receive a course timetable during the application process.  

All our courses have regular start dates throughout the year.  

On successful completion of your degree, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. 

 

Academic staff 

A quality teaching experience is at the heart of everything we do.  

The dedicated tutors who teach our course modules are subject matter experts, experienced academics and leading industry thought leaders. They play a vital role in ensuring the latest theories and areas of study are covered in our courses, and are proud to provide a high level of academic support. 

You can find more information on our key academic staff and their experience here. 

 

Quality and assurance  

We’re proud to provide a first-class education to students anywhere in the world and adhere to the strictest quality standards.  

The University of Essex Online is a recognised member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and registered with the Office for Students (OfS).  

All our degrees are delivered by Kaplan Open Learning, a world-leading education provider with over 15 years’ experience. 

Your future

On completion of our BSc (Hons) Business Psychology, you’ll have the skills and knowledge ideal for a career in a wide range of industries. These include organisational psychology, management, human resources, business development and business consultancy – as well as careers counselling, marketing and advertising, finance, and staff training and development.

Gaining an undergraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online also puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from our 2021 student survey showed:

  • 92% of students said their course helped develop their research skills
  • 89% of students say their studies fit with their future plans
  • Almost 60% said their studies had a positive effect on their career
  • 25% of students saw their salaries increase by up to 10%

Entry requirements

We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds would succeed on our courses! That’s why we offer two different entry routes, taking into account your prior work experience and relevant qualifications. You will also need to meet our English language requirements.

Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within the first three weeks of the course in order to continue with your studies.

 

Academic entry route

In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirements for our BSc (Hons) Business Psychology, you must have the following qualifications as a minimum:

  • three A-levels or equivalent

 

Work experience entry route

In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our BSc (Hons) Business Psychology, you must meet the following criteria:

  • GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent
  • three years’ relevant work experience

 

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0.

Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

Fees and funding

Full tuition fee:

£18,500 UK / £19,425 International (2023-24) Δ
£18,500 UK / £20.396 International (2024-25) Δ

  • Designated for undergraduate student loans in England. 
  • Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies. 
  • Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront. 
  • Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries. 
  • 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.   

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships here. 

Our course fees are fully inclusive – all teaching materials and required reading are included, and there are no hidden charges for assessments or resits.  

Δ All tuition fees shown are net of any applicable sales tax payable by you in your country of residence. Where we are required to add sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the tuition fees shown and confirmed during the payment process. 

Academic staff

A quality teaching experience is at the heart of everything we do.  

The dedicated tutors who teach our course modules are subject matter experts, experienced academics and leading industry thought leaders. They play a vital role in ensuring the latest theories and areas of study are covered in our courses, and are proud to provide a high level of academic support. 

You can find more information on our key academic staff and their experience here. 

What our students say

testimonials

Michelle Franklin -CertHE Psychology

Take a breath and go for it, don’t be disheartened or held back by age or self-doubt.

My husband and I started our own business 13 years ago and we now employ a team of 20 employees and deliver training to over 400 clients. I’m really proud of what we've achieved. Away from work, I love spending time with family and friends, go horse riding when I have the time and read a lot. If it’s not a murder mystery or thriller, then it’s a book on psychology.  I’ve always been fascinated by psychology and hopefully once I’ve completed my CertHE Psychology with the University of Essex Online, I’ll be accepted to study the BSc (Hons) Psychology. I needed an online course as...

Read more

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