Hartpury University has introduced two exciting new psychology degrees for 2026 entry – designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience to make a meaningful impact in their chosen careers.
The new BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sport and Exercise Perspectives is ideal for those passionate about understanding the relationship between the mind, sporting performance, and the role of exercise in supporting mental health and community wellbeing. Alongside it, the new BSc (Hons) Psychology offers a broad, research-led exploration of human behaviour, with opportunities to apply learning across Hartpury’s specialist sectors including sport, equine and animal-assisted services, agriculture, health, and education.
Prospective students can discover more, meet expert lecturers, and explore Hartpury’s outstanding facilities by booking a place at an upcoming open day.
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sport and Exercise Perspectives
This inspiring programme covers the core areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, individual differences, historical issues, and research methods, all whilst providing opportunities for applied learning in sport and exercise contexts.
Students on this pathway will benefit from studying at one of the UK’s leading sports universities (ranked 4th in the UK for Sports Science according to the Guardian University Guide 2025), home to nine performance sports academies, partnerships with elite teams, and a track record of developing athletes and practitioners who perform at the highest levels.
Taught by Health and Care Professions Council-registered staff and leading industry practitioners, learning takes place through a mix of lectures, seminars, and sessions. This unique environment allows students to apply psychological theory directly to high-performance sport, grassroots participation and school sport, as well as exercise contexts and community wellbeing projects.
By combining an innovative study of psychology with Hartpury University’s sporting reputation, graduates will be well-placed to pursue careers with professional clubs, national governing bodies, and performance support teams, as well as in health promotion, rehabilitation, and corporate wellbeing. The strong emphasis on applied learning means students will leave with the practical skills, industry insight, and professional networks to thrive in competitive sectors both within and beyond the sport and exercise sector.
Graduates will be prepared for diverse careers – from professional sport performance support to healthcare, social services, and the charity sector – or for further postgraduate study. Employability is embedded throughout, supported by Hartpury’s dedicated careers team.
BSc (Hons) Psychology
This degree delivers a comprehensive foundation in the science of the mind and human behaviour. Students will first study the core areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, individual differences, historical issues, and research methods. Students will then progress to exploring advanced topics such as mental health, inequality, wellbeing, and the application of psychology in a variety of settings including education, sport, counselling, and health.
Students will also benefit from Hartpury University’s unique strengths in equine and animal-assisted services, gaining practical insight into innovative interventions that support wellbeing in diverse populations. With on-site equine and animal-assisted therapy facilities, a working farm, and extensive green spaces, the institution is ideally placed to explore the growing role of animals and nature in promoting psychological health. These experiences add valuable breadth to students’ CVs, preparing them for roles in education, healthcare, community services, and emerging therapeutic practices.
The programme features guest lectures from practising psychologists across counselling, clinical, health, and organisational settings. In the final year, students apply their learning to contemporary challenges, designing and conducting an independent research project in an area of personal interest.
Find out more
To explore these new degrees, tour the campus, and experience Hartpury’s vibrant learning environment, book your open day place now here.
