Psychology Higher

Calendar iconStudy mode: You take fewer course units/modules per week compared to full time.

Mortar board iconCourse type: Higher

Pen iconStart in: September

Computer and book iconLearning mode: You access classes and/or materials digitally.

Book and tick iconHow: You complete course tasks independently. These may be set by your lecturer or chosen by you.

What is special about this course?

This course develops an understanding of the concepts, approaches, methods and applications of psychology. It will develop your ability to interpret, analyse and evaluate psychological theories, evidence and research methods in a critical way.

To be eligible for this programme, you must have achieved Higher English at Grade C or above.

In addition, entry can be gained with a pass in National 5 Psychology, or Three National 5 qualifications in science and/or social science subjects

If you do not meet these entry requirements, you may still be considered following an interview to assess your suitability for the course.

Suggested subjects:

  • Biology, Chemistry or Physics
  • History
  • Maths
  • Modern Studies
  • Politics
  • Sociology
  • RMPS
  • English
  • Geography
     

The central theme of the course is to enable you to investigate psychological knowledge and research, which will promote your understanding of individual and social behaviour. You will analyse and evaluate concepts and theories, and draw on research evidence to explain human behaviour.

The course consists of three areas of study:

Individual behaviour
You will analyse individual behaviour, investigate topics and learn how these topics can be explained using psychological theories and research evidence. You will evaluate and apply theories to show an understanding of individual human behaviour.

Social behaviour
You will analyse how interaction with others shapes social behaviour. You will investigate psychological explanations for social behaviour, and use research evidence to analyse how the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals are influenced by their social environment. You will apply psychological knowledge and understanding to explain examples of everyday social behaviour.

Research
You will understand and apply the research process and research methods used in psychology. You will develop the skills required to conduct and evaluate psychological research. You will also develop numerical skills and an understanding of psychological terminology.

You will be assessed by an external research assignment and question paper.

 

How will I study my course?

  • Part Time
    • Perth College UHI

Start date

September

Fees

Most full-time students will have their fees paid.

Students on part-time courses may also be eligible to have their course fees waived.

What can I do on completion of my course?

The skills you acquire are transferable to many careers and would be a valuable qualification when applying to University. It is also a useful higher if you wish to apply for the HNC/BA Social Science Programme at UHI Perth.

Apply for Psychology Higher

I want to start in 2026/27

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Perth. UHI Perth operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.