Psychology with Spanish BSc Hons | University of Chester

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Course Summary

The School of Psychology at Chester offers degrees accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The degree structure will allow you to study a wide range of areas of psychology. If you're interested in a professional career in psychology, there are specialist routes through the course where you can take relevant elective modules at each level.

You will have the opportunity to study a broad range of optional modules at all levels. In addition, alongside the core areas required for British Psychological Society accreditation, a Psychology degree from Chester will equip you with a broad range of employability skills, including literacy, numeracy, critical appraisal, data handling, and communication and logical problem-solving skills.

During this combined honours degree, you will have the opportunity to develop your language skills to a very high level, and study a range of cultural and historical contexts.

At Chester, you'll have the option to undertake a five-to-eight-week placement in Spain or Costa Rica at the end of Year 2 (Level 5). You will also have the opportunity to complete an academic year in Spain or Latin America. This allows you to split your experience abroad between two countries and to spend time in both Spain and another Spanish-speaking country.

You will be taught in a dynamic environment, located in a purpose-built building that includes three digital language laboratories and a dedicated resources room. All modules are taught in workshop mode.

Why You'll Love It

Placement opportunities abroad and at home

View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain.

Flexible learning options

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BSc (Hons) Psychology/Psychology (combined)

What You'll Study

The BSc Psychology with Spanish combined honours course contains core modules at each level.

In Year 1 (Level 4), you will be introduced to research methods and the core areas of psychology (biological, cognitive, developmental, social, and individual differences).

Spanish can be studied in a beginner or post A-level set. In Year 1 (Level 4), you will develop your language skills while exploring societies and cultures across the world where Spanish is spoken.

This module introduces aspects of individual differences and social psychology from the British Psychological Society to allow students to understand some of the possible reasons for differences in human behaviour across different situations. As such it compliments the research module that runs alongside it in explaining some of the results found, and what needs to be taken into consideration when designing research and trying to explain behaviour. There are also a range of core skills delivered in this module to enable their success across the course.

Understanding the process of acquiring new knowledge is fundamental to psychology, especially when we want to investigate human and non-human behaviour. This module will introduce you to the core skills that are essential for scientifically addressing questions relating to areas of psychology through various research methods and processes. You will learn about and study different areas of research such as study design, ethical issues, quantitative and qualitative analyses and interpretation of data.

This core module is an introduction to the BPS/QAA curriculum for biological psychology, developmental psychology, and cognitive psychology. For example, in biological psychology students will explore the biological bases of human and non-human behaviour, brain structure and function, comparative and evolutionary psychology. In cognitive psychology students will explore perception, attention, memory, learning, and language. Finally, in developmental psychology, students will explore prenatal, attachment, culture, language (acquisition), risk and resilience.

This immersive module will offer you, as a student of French/Spanish, the opportunity to develop your language from beginner or Post A level through the study of French/Spanish speaking cultures from around the world. A wide variety of materials will be used, appropriate to your level, to support your language learning and allow you to explore the geography, history and diversity of regions of the world where French and Spanish are spoken. For Spanish, the emphasis is on Latin America and, for French, West Africa, North America and the Caribbean. You will build proficiency in grammar, comprehension and written and oral communication and survey cultural themes through film, literature, music and art. You will extend your academic skills, including strategies for independent learning, and apply these in assessments.

This module is designed for students that have completed GCSE or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

This module is designed for students that have completed a A-Level or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If, during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

In Year 2 (Level 5), you will build on your research methods and expand your learning around social psychology and individual differences. There is also the opportunity to engage in an experiential learning module, which will allow you to integrate ideas from multiple perspectives in psychology and apply your knowledge ethically and professionally to real-world problems.

Your Spanish is further applied to real-world situations in preparation for studying or working abroad. Should you choose to do a year abroad, you will have the opportunity to study or work in countries where Spanish is spoken. You may wish to be a language assistant, find a work placement or study psychology in Spanish at one of our partner universities.

Modules

This Research Methods module will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the principles of research in psychology in alignment with the British Psychological Society (BPS) standards. The module focuses on helping students develop and enhance their research techniques developed in level 4, continuing to develop a critical understanding of diverse research methods, enabling you to select the right approach/es for different psychological research questions.

From designing experiments to working with or designing psychometric tests, you’ll learn how to generate hypotheses, collect data, and apply statistical tests with confidence. Additionally, you’ll also learn how to present research findings effectively in written BPS reports through to visual formats. The module emphasises the application of research methods to psychological issues, equipping students to design meaningful studies and evaluate data.

This module builds on the first year PS4024 module to cover the remaining aspects of the British Psychological Society's Social Psychology and Individual Differences curriculum, with a focus on the real world implications of what students have learnt. We will explore a range of issues in society around issues such as power, politics and community that help us understand why people act as they do and how society can influence this. Students will choose to explore one of these issues in depth for their assessment.

This module has two distinct themes. Theme one is to develop awareness and skills in understanding the psychology behind job searching, job applications, writing a persuasive CV, performing appropriately at interview and using social media to search for, and apply for jobs. Theme two helps students to apply psychology in real life situations in a discipline of interest chosen by the student. Students will work in groups and use psychological theory to solve specific problems either provided by partners within the community, working with partners in the community or provided in-house by staff. This is an experiential learning module where more than half of the content is delivered using practical exercises. Students will have an opportunity to take a self-directed approach to building essential skills.

This module will enable you to improve your linguistic proficiency by building on your existing competencies and knowledge, while also developing vocational language skills and intercultural awareness. As part of your language development, you will learn about important shared themes and patterns in the history of Latin America and Spain from a comparative perspective, with a view to understanding how these overlapping histories have shaped contemporary societies in both regions. Using a range of written and audio-visual texts in target language, you will study topics such as revolutions, dictatorships, cultural exchanges, and migration flows resulting from political and economic changes on both sides of the Atlantic.

You will advance towards a B1 or B2 level on the CEFR, depending on your set. All material is tailored to support your language level. Part of the module focuses on practical issues and is orientated towards preparation for your in-person or virtual immersive experience in the Spanish language, as well as for the world of work. You will enhance key skills such as reflecting on your learning and identifying personal and professional development opportunities, language mediation, and carrying out research. For example, you will develop new practical mediation skills by participating in tasks such as film subtitling.

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country.

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts.

This module provides the opportunity to achieve the University of Cambridge’s CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) qualification, which is an internationally recognised initial ELT (English Language Teaching) teacher qualification. The standards of teaching required in this are in accordance with CELTA standards. The CELTA is assessed on a Pass/Fail basis for the purposes of the University of Chester. There are pass grades A, B & C Pass, which are applied by Cambridge and will be indicated on the certificate issued by them on completion of the course. These grades do not apply to the grading of the university.

In Year 3 (Level 6), you will have the opportunity to complete a large-scale dissertation, where you will be able to demonstrate a range of research skills, including designing and planning, considering and resolving ethical issues, analysis and dissemination of findings. You will also be able to learn in-depth knowledge on core aspects of psychology, such as biological, cognitive and developmental psychology.

You will delve deeper into the study of Spanish in its cultural contexts, its application through translation and mediation, and its position in the contemporary world.

Modules

Psychopathology aims to promote students understanding of psychological disorder, how it develops and is maintained, and to help you to think about how, as psychologists, we might best intervene to promote psychological wellbeing. This module explores research, practice, and service user perspectives on psychopathology throughout the lifespan, providing students with a robust understanding of current thinking and approaches in the field of clinical and counselling psychology.

This module will look at key areas of Health Psychology, in particular looking at the areas of behaviour change and patient experience. This will allow students to build on what they have learnt so far in their degree and see this applied to issues within the physical health field. The module will prepare students for careers in physical health support or related areas around behaviour change such as marketing.

Neurodiversity in Practice covers a range of topics which affect children's development: these include a broad spectrum of neurodiversity issues, but may also include the experiences of children raised in unusual circumstances, who have a sensory or physical disability, a mental health condition, or who are unusually gifted or talented, for example.

The module begins with an overview of the business world in the relevant target language. You then focus on analysing and developing the specialised language and register required in a variety of business contexts. For example, in the fields of marketing and advertising, and when writing formal correspondence and attending business meetings. You will work with authentic and simulated materials to undertake a business negotiation in target language and produce a dossier that links to career progression. Employer guest speakers will contribute to cross-module sessions delivered in English.

This module will re-engage you in studying more formally and put in context all your previous experiences whether in your placements or taught modules at level 5, by taking a more analytical and in-depth study of salient societal changes in the Spanish speaking world. This module will also offer the possibility of developing your target language skills in a practical, immersive and interactive way. The module offers plenty of opportunities for oral practice and student input through class presentations, discussions and debates.

This module will offer you the opportunity to examine thematically some of the challenges of representing identity and giving voice to diversity in contemporary global societies. You will explore a range of literary, visual, audio and cinematic texts (all available in English translation) from across the different language cultures studied on this course. These texts will be structured around dominant themes drawn from, among others: decolonising the intellectual; ableism, hip hop and oral traditions in the 21st century; visual representations of difference; young voices in protest; identity politics in action. You will analyse and discuss cultural representations of contemporary identities and be invited to suggest and present ideas for new texts to include.

How You'll Learn

This course is delivered in three terms of 10 weeks each. In each term, you will study 40 credits comprising either one or two modules. Scheduled contact hours range between approximately eight and twelve hours per week, depending upon the level of study and the complexity of the material being taught.

For psychology, you can expect to take part in lectures, laboratory classes, workshops, seminars, and one-to-one tutorials/supervision. Spanish modules are delivered in workshops and seminars, supported by conversation classes and individual tutorials.

You will be expected to engage in independent study (approximately 30-35 hours per week), which may include engaging with asynchronous learning material on the University’s VLE, tutorial time with staff, using the University’s library, preparing work for assessment, etc.). There will also be times when you'll need to work collaboratively with others.

Teaching will be delivered by experienced academics and practitioners in the subject. This may be supplemented by occasional guest lecturers and speakers.

There will be a broad range of assessment methods so that students are exposed to the different types of task they might encounter in the workplace. Assessment methods may include essays, research reports, reflective reports, presentations and multiple choice examinations. These and other assessments (such as case studies, portfolios and blogs) will allow you to demonstrate your competencies in these areas and to develop your skills in writing for both academic and non-academic audiences. We continuously review the assessment methods used to ensure they adequately prepare you for graduate level employment.

All teaching is delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, with the fundamental principles of the Chester Future Skills Curriculum at its core - building your subject competence, confidence and key transferable skills to shape you into a world-ready Chester graduate.

Entry Requirements

112UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff	112 points
GCE A Level	Please Note: There are two entry cohorts to this programme. Entry Cohort 1: Students will be expected to hold GCE A Level Spanish, or AS Level Spanish, or equivalent (e.g. IB Spanish grade 4) Entry Cohort 2: Students with no previous knowledge, or only a basic knowledge (up to GCSE level), of Spanish will be considered, providing they have GCSE grade C/4 in a language (can include Welsh). Typical offer – BCC/BBC
BTEC	Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016): DDM Plus A-Level Spanish for entry cohort 1 (post A-level), or a GCSE in a modern foreign language for entry cohort 2 (beginners' route).
International Baccalaureate	28 points - To include 5 in a HL Spanish for post A Level sets. Or a GCSE in language/s is required for cohort 2.
Irish / Scottish Highers	Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H3 H3 H3 H3 H4 Scottish Highers - BBBB
Access requirements	Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above. Plus A-Level Spanish for entry cohort 1 (post A-level), or a GCSE in a modern foreign language for entry cohort 2 (beginners).
T Level	Merit
OCR	OCR Extended Diploma: DDM
Extra Information	Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. A GCSE grade C/4 (or above) in Mathematics and English is required. Please Note: We cannot consider GCSE equivalencies but can consider the Edge Hill University GCSE Equivalency Test.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our entry requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Fees and Funding

£9,535per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2025/26 are £9,535 a year, or £1,590 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

You can find more information about undergraduate fees on our Fees and Finance pages.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

£14,450*per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2025/26 are £14,450 per year for a full-time course. This fee is set for each year of study.

The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter.

For courses with a Foundation Year, the tuition fees for Year 1 are £10,750 and £14,200 for Years 2-4 in 2025/26.

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees and Finance section of our website.

Who You'll Learn From

Dr Liz Whelen

Senior Lecturer

Dr Janine Carroll

Senior Lecturer

Dr Hayley Cooper

Senior Lecturer

Dr Lindsay Murray

Associate Professor

Kate Miller

Lecturer

Dr Mark Gant

Head of Centre

Where You'll Study Exton Park, Chester

The location

Modern learning resources and library

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Fitness facilities

A male student wearing goggles is swimming in the training pool between the red rope lane marker lines.

Student Services

Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces

Accommodation

Catering

Your Future Career

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service, which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.

Psychology with Spanish BSc (Hons)

Accreditations

Course Summary

Why You'll Love It