BSc (Hons) Psychology

Psychology

Overview

The BSc Psychology programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) is one of few worldwide to integrate advanced topics like neurocognitive sciences, health psychology, and developmental psychology into a single curriculum. The programme empowers students with the knowledge and expertise needed to solve global challenges related to mental health, ageing, social change, education, and business. You will receive the foundation you need to make a meaningful and positive difference in people’s lives.

Why should I study psychology at XJTLU?

You won’t simply be studying psychological theories. Instead, our hands-on approach to learning will provide ample opportunities to actively apply your studies to real-world situations. Step by step, you will build empirical, practical, and statistical skills in accordance with the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Framework for Higher Education, which sets standards for academic quality in UK higher education institutions.

From examining the mental health effects of ageing populations to tackling issues of workplace productivity and individual differences, you will engage with cutting-edge research and an array of important contemporary topics throughout your study.

XJTLU’s long-standing collaboration with the University of Liverpool will also provide you with a wide range of study abroad opportunities, including one that culminates in a University of Liverpool degree. This unique articulation agreement between XJTLU and the University of Liverpool allows students to spend their first two years studying at XJTLU before transferring to Liverpool for their third and fourth years.

With or without articulation, this BSc Psychology programme delivers an innovative, research-focused experience that is well-suited to students who wish to pursue further academic studies.

Accreditation

The BSc Psychology programme is new, and we are in the process of obtaining accreditation from the British Psychological Society.

Knowledge and skills

Through this programme, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology and develop a diverse set of practical skills essential for engaging with both contemporary and future global challenges.

Through varied learning activities focusing on research methods and problem-solving, students will learn to think critically and analytically, using scientific enquiry to study problems and devise useful, scalable interventions. Whether the topic is understanding how AI influences cognitive functions or how cultural factors shape societal behaviours, students will be equipped with the tools to analyse complex situations and provide data-driven solutions. This hands-on approach ensures students can apply learning to real-world contexts, preparing them for their future careers.

In addition to skills and knowledge, this programme emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, communication, and adaptability – valuable traits in today’s interconnected workplace. Students will work with professionals from different fields in interactive projects and seminars, developing a well-rounded perspective of the many ways in which psychology interacts with disciplines including education, healthcare, and business. These competencies and experiences will enable graduates to contribute to varied industries or conduct meaningful research while pursuing a master’s or PhD degree.

In a world that is changing faster than ever through advances in technology and global ageing, understanding the human mind and human condition has never been more important. In our programme, you won’t just learn theories; you will learn how people think, feel, perceive, learn, and make decisions. If you find yourself continuously curious about people and wanting to help make the world a better place, this programme is for you.

Dr Justin Fendos

Programme Director

Modules

*Programme modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. XJTLU students are advised to log in to the e-Bridge Portal to view the effectuated module structure.


Semester 1 and 2

Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University offers a wide range of courses in the first year, including English for academic purposes (EAP), mathematics and physics, and humanities and social sciences. Click to learn more.

Semester 2

  • Introduction to Psychology


  • Brain and Cognition
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Research Methods and Statistics I
  • Biological Psychology
  • Social Psychology and Individual Differences
  • Research Methods and Statistics II


  • Clinical and Forensic Psychology
  • Psychobiology and Motivation
  • Research Methods and Statistics III
  • Cognition, Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Lifespan, Health and Wellbeing
  • Research Methods and Statistics IV


  • Psychological Approaches to Decision-Making
  • Appetite Regulation & Obesity: Neuroscience Perspectives
  • Psychobiology of Pain
  • Psychological Issues in Adult Ageing 
  • Family Psychology: the System behind the Symptom  
  • Conflict Psychology
  • Topics in Applied Social Psychology
  • Cyber-Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction 
  • Conflict Psychology
  • The Psychology of Psychosis
  • Final Year Project

Careers

Graduating from the BSc Psychology programme opens doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities. Psychology is one of the most versatile degrees, offering employment across fields like healthcare, education, business, and technology. There is growing demand in China and globally for mental health professionals who can help alleviate needs associated with important issues such as ageing, digital immersion, and child development. Whether you choose to become a clinical psychologist, mental health therapist, or pursue a master’s or PhD degree, the knowledge and skills you gain through this programme will position you for future success and the ability to make a real difference in the lives of others.

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