BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Psychology

Do you enjoy numbers the way others enjoy music, poetry or art? Mathematical training develops both specific skills and broad analytical expertise, which are valued across all professions; and there is a particular demand for graduates who not only have quantitative skills, but also know how to use them. Our courses deliver that sought-after combination – both through our teaching style and our focus on real-world applications of both mathematical and statistical techniques. For instance, you will use the mathematics computing laboratories as an integral part of your learning process, making your study as much experimental as theoretical. Our Mathematics and Statistics department provides a stimulating and supportive learning environment and we have a strong and active research group. Its major interest is the application of mathematics to biology, economics and life sciences, and we offer combined Honours degrees in the relevant disciplines.Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. During this course you will investigate how and why humans (and other animals) behave in the ways they do, and learn about the mental processes driving these behaviours. As you’ll discover, Psychology is a very broad subject, covering such diverse areas as brain function, perceiving the world and even the social interactions in a football crowd. Psychology at Stirling is internationally renowned for research and this feeds into teaching. In our taught modules, you learn of the importance of research in furthering the understanding of behaviour and, in practical work, develop research skills of your own. Semesters 1 – 2 comprise an introduction to psychology as a biological and behavioural science including: Developmental Psychology; Brain and Behaviour; Language and Thinking; Animal Behaviour; Clinical and Abnormal Psychology; Social Psychology and Cognitive Psychology. Other modules on this course may include: Research Methods, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Individual Differences, Cognition, Animal Behaviour and Clinical and Health Psychology. In the final year of our Single Honours Programme, as well as an individual research project, you will choose from a wide variety of electives that are designed to allow you to explore topics that interest you and build your employability skills. Teaching is by workshops, small discussion groups and practical sessions such as laboratory work or field work. There are opportunities for placements with prospective employers and fieldwork in the study of animal behaviour. At the end of your final year, you will do an independent research project based in the real world and often with a practical value. Here at Stirling you will become an active learner and work with staff as collaborators. Our programme is designed to ensure you are attractive to employers and to enhance and develop your potential in the competitive job market. With its focus on behaviour and mind, Psychology links naturally with other disciplines such as Biology, Philosophy and Sociology. It also integrates with subjects valued in the workplace, such as Business Studies, Marketing and Human Resource Management.