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An important element of the social sciences is an understanding of what makes people tick: how they think, act and interact with others, and how they perceive and process information. Linking your study of social sciences with courses from our psychology programme will help you explore the fascinating connections between the individual and the social world.

Where to start in Psychological Studies

If you’re new to study or want to build your confidence then you could begin with Starting with Psychology (Y163) or Introduction to Counselling (D171). Alternatively you might start with Introducing the social sciences (DD101) or Introducing the social sciences - part 1 (DD131) and Introducing the social sciences - part 2 (DD132), which engage with concerns of relevance to the study of psychology more generally. Each of these courses will develop the study skills, the knowledge and the understanding that you’ll need for the successful completion of further study in psychological studies.

Worried about your ability? Or the time it will take? If you're a UK resident you can start with one of our Openings courses: short courses with lots of support and no exams, giving you a gradual introduction to your subject and the world of studying.

Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.

Degrees

  • Computing with Psychological Studies
    This degree combines two popular and important disciplines, and equips you for a very wide range of careers.
  • Criminology and Psychological Studies
    Our society is fascinated by crime and punishment. This degree will help you understand the issues behind the headlines.
  • Philosophy and Psychological Studies
    Explore concepts, theories, methods and debates in philosophy and psychology, relevant to a broad range of careers, including advertising and marketing, social services, administration and management.
  • Social Sciences
    How does society work? And how does it change? Studying social science can change the way you look at the world forever.
  • Social Sciences with Psychological Studies
    How does society work? And how does it change? Studying social science with psychological studies can change the way you look at the world forever.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.

Foundation Degrees

  • Counselling
    The Open University’s Foundation Degree in Counselling will provide an understanding of the theory and skills required to practise as a professional counsellor.

Courses in Psychological Studies

See the list of all our individual courses in Psychological Studies.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Social Sciences.

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