Best Ranked Universities to Study Psychology in the UK
Choosing where to study psychology is an important decision, whether you are embarking on your first undergraduate degree or pursuing postgraduate and doctoral studies. The UK has long been recognised for its top universities for psychology, with programmes that excel in teaching quality, research opportunities, and career prospects. In particular, The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 considers key metrics—Teaching Quality, Student Experience, Research Quality, Entry Standards, and Graduate Prospects—to compile its comprehensive UK psychology university rankings.
Studying psychology in the UK can lead you to diverse career paths, from clinical psychology and forensic psychology to sports psychology and criminal psychology. Renowned institutions offer accredited psychology degrees that allow you to specialise in areas like criminology, child development, and organisational behaviour. While this guide focuses on ten top rated institutions, you will also discover varied programmes, flexible entry options, and a host of academic support structures aimed at enhancing both your knowledge and practical skills.
If you are also interested in technology fields, see our future guide on Best CS Universities in UK. Below, we present the top 10 universities in UK for psychology, outlining their best features, typical fees, entry requirements, and career outcomes. Let’s begin!
1. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Location: Central London
Overview: Well-known for its focus on social sciences, LSE is increasingly recognised as a leading psychology university in the UK. Its Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science leverages extensive research collaborations, ensuring that students engage with cutting-edge empirical studies in areas such as social, cognitive, and forensic psychology.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc in Psychological and Behavioural Science
- MSc in Behavioural Science
- PhD in Psychological and Behavioural Science
Specialisations
- Social and cultural psychology
- Organisational psychology
- Forensic and criminal psychology (select modules)
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): Approx. £23,000 – £26,000 per year for international students
- Masters (MSc): Around £25,000 – £30,000 per year
- PhD: Varies, starting at ~£21,000 per year (international)
Entry Requirements
- A-level grades: Typically AAA or equivalent (with one subject in a social science or science field)
- International Baccalaureate: 37+ points
- English proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall (with no band lower than 6.5)
Career Prospects
LSE graduates thrive in diverse sectors, including corporate research, government policy, healthcare, and consulting. Thanks to LSE’s strong industry connections, internships in think tanks, NGOs, and international agencies are common stepping stones to full-time roles.
Additional Features
- Partnerships with global institutions for cross-disciplinary research
- Notable alumni in politics, business, and academia
For full details, visit the LSE official website.
2. University of St Andrews
Location: St Andrews, Scotland
Overview: The University of St Andrews, renowned for its rich history and strong academic ethos, consistently appears among leading psychology universities in the UK. Its School of Psychology & Neuroscience offers a rigorous yet student-friendly environment, prioritising both research excellence and teaching quality.
Key Psychology Programmes
- MA (Hons) in Psychology
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- MSc in Evolutionary and Comparative Psychology
- PhD in Psychology and Neuroscience
Specialisations
- Evolutionary psychology
- Neuropsychology and perception
- Developmental psychology
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (Hons): Around £22,000 – £26,000 per year for international students
- Masters: Between £22,000 and £29,000
- PhD: From £20,000 per year, depending on research scope
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: Typically AAA–AAB, including at least one science subject
- IB: 36+ points, with high marks in Higher Level subjects
- English proficiency: IELTS 7.0 (minimum 6.5 in each component)
Career Prospects
Graduates secure roles in mental health services, public policy, education, and private-sector research. The university’s dedicated career centre organises networking events with major healthcare organisations and charities, enhancing student employability.
Additional Features
- Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, combining psychology with neuroscience
- Picturesque coastal setting that offers a close-knit student community
Visit the University of St Andrews website for more information.
3. University of Cambridge
Location: Cambridge, England
Overview: The University of Cambridge, lauded for its top-rated academic standards, houses the Department of Psychology within a world-famous research ecosystem. Often placed high in UK psychology university rankings, Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration of human behaviour, cognition, and neurobiology.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BA in Psychological and Behavioural Sciences
- MPhil in Psychology
- PhD in Psychology
Specialisations
- Clinical psychology research
- Cognitive neuroscience
- Forensic psychology (through interdisciplinary electives)
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BA): £25,000 – £35,000 per year for international students
- Masters (MPhil): ~£27,000 – £35,000
- PhD: Typically £30,000 or higher, depending on funding and research scope
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAA typically, including a science or mathematics subject
- IB: 40+ points, with 776 at Higher Level
- English: IELTS 7.5 overall (no band below 7.0)
Career Prospects
Cambridge psychology graduates often progress to roles in healthcare, academia, or high-level consultancy. Research-based learning, combined with strong ties to global institutions, ensures excellent postgraduate and master's placement opportunities.
Additional Features
- Collegiate system providing tailored academic and pastoral support
- Home to cutting-edge research facilities and partnerships with major healthcare providers
For official details, visit the University of Cambridge.
4. University of Oxford
Location: Oxford, England
Overview: Another staple in any UK psychology university ranking, the University of Oxford’s Department of Experimental Psychology leads in brain and cognition studies, applying rigorous scientific methods to understand human thought and behaviour. Its synergy with neuroscience, psychiatry, and criminology departments fosters truly interdisciplinary programmes.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BA in Experimental Psychology
- MSc in Psychological Research
- DPhil (PhD) in Experimental Psychology
Specialisations
- Cognitive and behavioural neuroscience
- Language and developmental psychology
- Forensic psychology links through criminology labs
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BA): £28,000 – £37,000 annually for international students
- Masters (MSc): £30,000 – £40,000, depending on the programme
- DPhil: From ~£35,000 per year, subject to research area
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: Typically A*AA, with a focus on science or maths
- IB: 39+ points, 766 at Higher Level
- English: IELTS 7.5 overall, minimum 7.0 in each component
Career Prospects
Oxford graduates are highly sought after in clinical settings, government agencies, and private consultancies. Collaborative research networks, including those with major hospitals and charitable organisations, open numerous career pathways.
Additional Features
- Renowned tutorial system offering one-to-one academic mentorship
- Regular guest lectures by eminent psychologists and neuroscientists
Check the University of Oxford website for more details.
5. University of Bath
Location: Bath, England
Overview: The University of Bath consistently appears in top universities for psychology in UK listings, emphasising empirical and applied research. With a modern campus nestled in a historic city, it offers a blend of tradition and forward-thinking educational approaches.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- MSc in Health Psychology
- PhD in Psychology
Specialisations
- Health and well-being
- Sports psychology (select modules)
- Social and cognitive neuroscience
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): ~£21,000 – £28,000 per year for international students
- MSc: Around £25,000 – £32,000
- PhD: Starting at £23,000 per year, depending on research
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAB–AAA, often requiring a scientific subject
- IB: Minimum 36 points, with 6 in Higher Level science
- English: IELTS 6.5 or higher (with 6.0 in each band)
Career Prospects
Bath’s industrial placements and robust networking events connect students with the NHS, private clinics, and corporate HR sectors. Graduates often venture into clinical psychology, research, or consultancy roles in health and wellness.
Additional Features
- State-of-the-art psychology labs for experimental and applied research
- A strong sense of community in a UNESCO World Heritage city
See the University of Bath website for comprehensive information.
6. University College London (UCL)
Location: Bloomsbury, London
Overview: UCL is one of the best universities for psychology in the UK, boasting a prolific research culture within its Faculty of Brain Sciences. From master's in psychology UK top universities rankings to pioneering PhD studies, UCL’s diverse programmes span everything from clinical psychology to sports psychology and beyond.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc in Psychology
- MSc in Clinical Mental Health Sciences
- PhD in Psychology and Language Sciences
Specialisations
- Clinical and health psychology
- Cognitive neuroscience
- Forensic psychology modules via cross-department collaboration
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): Approx. £28,000 – £36,000 per year for international students
- MSc: ~£30,000 – £38,000, depending on specialisation
- PhD: Starting at £28,000 annually, variable by research area
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAA, typically including at least one science subject
- IB: 38 points or higher
- English: IELTS 7.0 overall (6.5+ in each component)
Career Prospects
UCL’s location in central London offers unparalleled access to clinical settings, research institutes, and corporate recruiters. Students build strong networks through departmental seminars, lab placements, and collaborations with leading hospitals.
Additional Features
- Interdisciplinary culture fostering joint research across multiple faculties
- Highly active student community with psychology-focused societies
Explore the UCL official website for more details.
7. University of Strathclyde
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Overview: The University of Strathclyde is a top-rated institution for practical, real-world learning. Its School of Psychological Sciences & Health integrates modern teaching with community outreach, preparing students for the evolving demands of psychological practice, including areas like criminal psychology and criminology.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- MSc in Applied Psychology
- PhD in Psychological Sciences & Health
Specialisations
- Applied and community psychology
- Forensic psychology elements in some postgraduate modules
- Health and well-being research
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): ~£19,000 – £25,000 for international students
- MSc: ~£22,000 – £29,000, based on course load
- PhD: From £20,000 per year, depending on supervision and resources
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAB–ABB, typically including a science subject
- IB: 34–36 points
- English: IELTS 6.5 overall (6.0+ in each component)
Career Prospects
Strathclyde’s close ties with local healthcare providers, schools, and justice institutions enable valuable fieldwork. Graduates enter roles in mental health agencies, educational psychology, or corporate human resources.
Additional Features
- Focus on applied research, linking academic theory to practical outcomes
- Vibrant city campus in the heart of Glasgow, with extensive cultural and social opportunities
Check the University of Strathclyde website for specifics.
8. University of Glasgow
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Overview: The University of Glasgow ranks among the psychology degree UK best universities, backed by a strong heritage and modern labs. Its Institute of Neuroscience & Psychology fosters internationally recognised research into behaviour, cognition, and mental health, offering programmes that span undergraduate to doctoral levels.
Key Psychology Programmes
- MA/BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- MSc in Brain Sciences
- PhD in Psychology
Specialisations
- Cognitive neuroimaging
- Clinical and health psychology
- Sports psychology research groups
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate: ~£20,000 – £28,000 per year for international students
- MSc: £22,000 – £32,000, depending on the specific course
- PhD: ~£24,000+ per annum, based on research demands
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAA–AAB, including at least one science
- IB: 36+ points
- English: IELTS 6.5 or 7.0, depending on specialisation
Career Prospects
Graduates frequently move into healthcare, social services, or academic research. Collaborative links with medical schools and research institutes provide experience-based learning, facilitating roles in clinical psychology, consultancy, and beyond.
Additional Features
- Mix of historic architecture and state-of-the-art research facilities
- Strong commitment to mental health and well-being initiatives
Visit the University of Glasgow website for further information.
9. University of York
Location: York, England
Overview: Steeped in history yet fully modern in its approach, the University of York stands out in many UK psychology university rankings. Its Department of Psychology emphasises interdisciplinary teamwork, blending cognitive science, neuroimaging, and quantitative methods to produce well-rounded graduates.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- MSc in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
- PhD in Psychology
Specialisations
- Developmental and cognitive neuroscience
- Perception and action
- Forensic psychology modules in partnership with related departments
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): £20,000 – £26,000 per year for international students
- MSc: ~£23,000 – £30,000
- PhD: From ~£22,000 annually
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAB–AAA, ideally including a science subject
- IB: 35+ points
- English: IELTS 7.0 overall (no component under 6.5)
Career Prospects
The University of York’s strong ties with educational, healthcare, and policy institutions lead to varied graduate opportunities. Alumni often find work in child psychology, research consultancies, or private counselling services.
Additional Features
- Campus-based university with supportive college communities
- Emphasis on problem-based learning, real-world data analysis, and experimental design
See the University of York website for further guidance.
10. King’s College London
Location: London, England
Overview: King’s College London ranks high among the best undergraduate psychology courses in the UK and postgraduate offerings alike. Its Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience is one of the largest centres for mental health research in Europe, covering broad areas like forensic psychology and advanced neuroimaging.
Key Psychology Programmes
- BSc in Psychology
- MSc in Mental Health Studies
- PhD in Psychology & Neuroscience
Specialisations
- Criminal psychology collaborations with law and psychiatry
- Cognitive neuropsychiatry
- Behavioural genetics
Tuition Fees (2025)
- Undergraduate (BSc): £27,000 – £32,000 per year for international students
- MSc: £28,000 – £35,000, based on the specific programme
- PhD: Typically begins at £30,000 annually
Entry Requirements
- A-levels: AAA (including a science subject)
- IB: 36+ points
- English: IELTS 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill
Career Prospects
King’s graduates often progress to roles in NHS mental health services, private healthcare institutions, and research organisations. The central London location offers extensive networking opportunities, including partnerships with renowned hospitals like the Maudsley.
Additional Features
- World-class facilities in neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology
- Interdisciplinary approach linking mental health, criminology, and policy-making
For more insights, visit the King’s College London official website.
Top Psychology Universities in the UK: 2025 Rankings & Key Insights
The table below showcases the top ten institutions for psychology in 2025, based on Teaching Quality, Student Experience, Research Quality, Entry Standards, and Graduate Prospects. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) claims the top spot with notable scores in teaching and student satisfaction. Right behind it, the University of St Andrews excels in entry standards, reflecting its rigorous admissions criteria. Cambridge and Oxford continue to compete closely in research output, highlighting their consistent global standing. Meanwhile, Bath stands out for an impressive student experience rating, illustrating the university’s focus on support and well-being. Despite lower overall ranks, universities like Strathclyde, Glasgow, and York demonstrate strong showings in research and career prospects, ensuring ample options for prospective students. This snapshot serves as a helpful starting point for comparing UK psychology programmes in 2025.
| Subject Rank | Overall Rank | University | Teaching Quality | Student Experience | Research Quality | Entry Standards | Graduate Prospects | Total Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | London School of Economics and Political Science | 91.3 | 90.9 | 86.2 | 197 | n/a | 100 |
| 2 | 2 | University of St Andrews | 85.2 | 84.8 | 61.8 | 201 | 90.6 | 97 |
| 3 | 4 | University of Cambridge | 86.6 | 70.7 | 75 | 188 | 83.3 | 94.3 |
| 4 | 3 | University of Oxford | 87.6 | 68.9 | 75.5 | 195 | n/a | 94 |
| 5 | 8 | University of Bath | 85.4 | 91.3 | 37.2 | 185 | 83.4 | 92.8 |
| 6 | 7 | University College London | 77.3 | 78.9 | 73.2 | 180 | 84.2 | 92.6 |
| 7 | 20 | University of Strathclyde | 82.5 | 79.9 | 65.8 | 195 | 76.4 | 92.5 |
| 8= | 16 | University of Glasgow | 82.5 | 79.2 | 65.8 | 205 | 73.4 | 92.4 |
| 8= | 17 | University of York | 87.2 | 87.3 | 69.2 | 159 | 76.5 | 92.4 |
| 10 | 24 | King's College London | 82.7 | 81 | 69 | 176 | 79.3 | 92.3 |
Conclusion
Choosing among the best 10 unis in UK for psychology can be both exciting and challenging. Each institution listed above has unique strengths—ranging from cutting-edge research facilities to specialised courses in clinical psychology, forensic psychology, sports psychology, and criminology. Factors like tuition fees, location, and campus culture are also pivotal in your final decision. Whether you aspire to work in healthcare, education, corporate consultancy, or advanced scientific inquiry, there is a programme designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed for success.
Keep in mind that your choice should align with your academic goals, budget, and personal preferences. If you are aiming to become a master of a specialised area, many of these universities provide accredited postgraduate and doctoral options that build on solid undergraduate training. To make the most informed decision, delve deeper into each institution’s official website, consult with admissions staff, and, if possible, attend virtual or in-person open days.
No matter which path you choose, studying psychology in the UK can open a world of possibilities, empowering you to make a genuine impact on individuals and communities through understanding human behaviour and mental processes. Good luck in your journey!
Comments (0)
Leave A Comment