APPLYING TO STUDY PSYCHOLOGY AT UNIVERSITY

Psychology is very popular at University and it can be very competitive to get onto a course, especially at the top-level Universities. Therefore, it is very important to make the most of the application process.

Personal Statement
Your personal tutor and the careers department will help you write your personal statement and give advice on how to improve drafts. So make the most of these experienced staff and write your personal statement in plenty of time so that you have a chance to improve it.

Make sure your personal statement is focused on studying for a psychology degree. Here are some ideas of things to include:

• It is a good idea to demonstrate in your statement that you have the skills needed to do a Psychology degree. This can be done by referring to things you have done in Psychology and other A-Levels, and anything you have done out of lesson times like extra-curricular activities, jobs or volunteer work.
• Lots of people will be applying to do Psychology so try and make your personal statement stand out. Make sure you have included any interesting things you have done. Make the personal statement interesting to read by using a wide vocabulary, etc.
• Show that your intention to study Psychology is well thought through; show awareness of the subject by referring to popular topics and explain why studying Psychology appeals to you.
• Also demonstrate that you have done extra reading; this shows a commitment to the subject.
• Also demonstrate that you are ambitious and focused by mentioning how a Psychology degree fits into your future career plans.

Interviewers
You may not be interviewed for a Psychology degree, as so many people apply, but if you do it is important to prepare. For example:

• Make sure you know what a Psychology degree involves e.g. report writing, stats, tests etc.
• Be able to justify your choice of University. Make sure you know about the University, and the specific course, and be able to explain why you have chosen this particular course.
• It maybe worthwhile doing some extra reading in A2 topics that you have not covered, especially on up-to-the-minute areas. At the moment Evolutionary Psychology is becoming very popular.
• It may also be useful to be aware of, and be able to discuss, any news stories that are linked to Psychology, such as the link between MMR and Autism.
• If you have a career plan, make sure you are fully aware of what is involved, and able to discuss how you will achieve your aims.
• Make sure you tell the interviewer about relevant extracurricular activities / hobbies / work experience or volunteering you have done.
• Finally, it is a good idea to have a few questions you can ask the interviewer at the end of the interview that shows you have researched the University and course; this shows an interest in the university.