Planning to study psychology in Britain? Then you must be wondering what are the top universities for psychology in the UK. There is a wide range of prestigious institutions out there, but not all of them specialise in psychology-related subjects. In this blog, we have compiled some of the best psychology universities in the UK based on the latest Psychology Rankings 2026 by The Complete University Guide to help you choose from.
Why Get a Psychology Degree in UK?
Psychology is the study of of human mind and human behavior to address real-world issues. It is not only about curing patients with emotional conditions but can also be applied to a much larger scale, from investigating crimes, teaching children, fighting against climate change, and developing artificial intelligence in every aspect of daily life.
Home to some of the best universities in the world, the United Kingdom is your ideal destination for studying psychology. With world-class education, diverse specializations, and cutting-edge research, the UK also offers shorter course durations, strong career prospects, and a multicultural environment.
Career Prospects for Psychology Students
Psychologists study and analyse human behavior, emotions, and mental processes to help individuals understand and navigate challenges in their lives. There are a various settings that psychology graduates can work in, including:
- Clinical Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Educational Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Occupational Psychologist
- Health Psychologist
- Sports Psychologist
- Researcher
- Human Resources Specialist
- Market Research Analyst
- Psychiatric Technician
Top 10 Universities for Psychology UK
Here are some of the top UK universities for psychology in 2026 based on academic and research excellence, student satisfaction, entry standards, graduate respect, and more， according to the latest The Complete University Guide 2026.
| University | UK Rank (2025) | QS/ Psychology Rank | Intl Fees | Entry Requirement | Why Consider It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | 1 | 4/2 | ~£51k | AAA | Elite research environment & global prestige |
| University of St Andrews | 2 | 113/101-150 | ~£31.6k | AAA | High satisfaction & personalised teaching |
| University of Cambridge | 3 | 6/4 | ~£41k | AAA | Best academic reputation & research excellence |
| University of Bath | 4 | 132/74 | ~£30.5k | A*AA | Excellent for applied & organisational psychology |
| University of York | 5 | 169/97 | ~£31k | AAA | Strong cognitive neuroscience & supportive environment |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | 6 | 56/19 | ~£29k | A*AA | Ideal for behavioural science, policy & business pathways |
| Cardiff University | 7 | 181/101-150 | ~£29.5k | A*AA–AAB | Strong clinical/health psychology & high employment rate |
| Loughborough University | 8 | 225/151-200 | ~£30.7k | AAB | Known for sport, health & applied psychology |
| University of Exeter | 9 | 155/101-150 | ~£29–33k | AAA | Great for clinical, mental health & applied psychology |
| University College London (UCL) | 10 | 9/6 | ~£32–39k | A*AA | World-leading psychology & postgraduate opportunities |
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, with no doubt, has always been recognized as one of the top UK universities for psychology. Its Experimental Psychology is home to over 20 groups performing ground-breaking basic and translational research and provides exceptional educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.
Oxford’s Psychology department is ideal for academically driven students who want a strong foundation in experimental and cognitive psychology. Its research-intensive environment and access to world-leading laboratories suit those aiming for academia or scientific careers. Best for students comfortable with rigorous theoretical work and competitive entry.
- Suggest Courses: MSci Experimental Psychology, BA or MSci Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics
- Entry Requirements: A*AA, IB – 39 (including core points) including 766 at HL, TSA test, interview.
- International Fee: £51,880 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 4
- Acceptance Rate: 13-15%
2. University of St Andrews
The School of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews, one of the best universities for psychology in UK, places emphasis on research-led teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels from leading researchers. This university has established a reputation as one of the world’s leading research and teaching centres with a history of over 600 years and now offers a flexible degree structure based on personal choices of subject specialism or research.
St Andrews excels in student satisfaction, small-group teaching and a close academic community—perfect for students seeking a personalised and supportive learning experience. Its strengths in cognitive and behavioural science make it ideal for those planning research careers. Recommended for students who value a quieter town environment with high academic standards.
Cambridge suits highly ambitious students who thrive in fast-paced, theory-heavy learning. Its world-class research output in neuroscience, cognition and developmental psychology offers unparalleled opportunities for academic advancement. Best for students aiming for postgraduate study or cutting-edge research roles.
- Suggest Courses: Psychology BSc (Hons), Psychology MA (Hons), Psychology (Conversion) MSc
- Entry Requirements: AAAB for standard entry grades, 36 (HL 6,6,5) for standard IB points
- International Fee: £31,670 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 113
- Acceptance Rate: 8-12%
3. University of Cambridge
As one of the top universities for psychology in the UK, the University of Cambridge Department of Psychology always aimed to provide world-class research and teaching in psychology and cognate disciplines characterised by its multidisciplinary and collaborative approach.
Cambridge was placed 1st in the world for Psychology in the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and 93% of its submissions in the Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience UoA were rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in the last REF 2021.
- Suggest Courses: Psychological and Behavioural Sciences, BA (Hons), Psychological and Behavioural Sciences Tripos, Natural Sciences Tripos
- Entry Requirements: A*A*A, IB 41-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level, A levels/IB Higher Levels in Mathematics OR Biology
- International Fee: £41,124 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 6
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
4. University of Bath
It might not have come to your mind that the University of Bath is also one of the best universities for psychology in the UK. It is ranked Top 5 for Psychology in the Complete University Guide 2026 and 132nd in the world in QS World University Rankings 2026. The Department of Psychology is based on a large and growing team of staff who offer expertise in a broad spectrum of psychology topics and apply psychological theory to a range of real-world problems.
Bath offers a balanced, applied approach to psychology with strong links to industry and excellent graduate outcomes. It’s a great choice for students interested in practical applications such as organisational, health or clinical psychology. Ideal for those who want a mix of academic depth and real-world career preparation.
- Suggest Courses: Psychology BSc
- Entry Requirements: A*AA, IB 7, 6, 6 at HL, GCSE Mathematics grade 7 or A and English Language or Literature grade 6 or B, previous knowledge of relevant subjects
- International Fee: £30,500 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 132
- Acceptance Rate: 10% and 20%
5. University of York
Ranked 5th in the UK for Psychology in the Complete University Guide 2026, the University of York Department of Psychology is research-intensive and offers teaching and learning by researchers of international repute who are doing world-leading research as well as delivering lectures and supervising undergraduate projects. Students will also find a friendly, stimulating and supportive environment for you to challenge, grow, and flourish.
York combines strong research quality with a supportive environment, particularly in cognitive neuroscience, language and memory. It’s ideal for students who want modern facilities and a friendly campus community. Best for those who prefer a research-driven degree without the intensity of Oxbridge.
- Suggest Courses: Psychology BSc, Psychology MSci, MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience
- Entry Requirements: AAA including at least one science, Access to HE Diploma (Science) with 39 credits at Distinction and 6 credits at Merit or higher, IB 36 points including 6 in one Higher Level science subject.
- International Fee: £31,100 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 169
- Acceptance Rate: 78.5%
6. London School of Economics and Political Science
London School of Economics and Political Science is listed as the top 6 psychology unis UK by the Complete University Guide for Psychology Rankings 2026, as well as in the best universities for psychology in the UK 2025 in the Times Higher Education. As a world-leading University, LSE specialises in social science and is based in the heart of London.
Cardiff offers excellent value, strong research (especially in clinical and health psychology), and good placement opportunities through NHS partnerships. It’s ideal for students aiming for applied careers or postgraduate clinical routes. Best for those seeking a well-rounded programme in a friendly, affordable city.
- Suggest Courses: BSc Psychological and Behavioural Science, MSc Organisational and Social Psychology, MSc Societal and Environmental Psychology
- Entry Requirements: GCSE grades at A (or 7) and A* (or 8-9), A*AA, including at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Psychology, IB Diploma for 38 points
- International Fee: £29,200 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 56
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
7. Cardiff University
The last one in the top UK universities for psychology is Cardiff University, with 95% of its research by the School of Psychology being world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). The school offers two BSc Psychology programmes and is one of only a few psychology schools that offer the opportunity to gain professional experience on our Psychology with Professional Placement (BSc) course. Besides, 96% of its graduates are employed, in further study, or both 15 months after completing their course (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021/22).
Cardiff offers excellent value, strong research (especially in clinical and health psychology), and good placement opportunities through NHS partnerships. It’s ideal for students aiming for applied careers or postgraduate clinical routes. Best for those seeking a well-rounded programme in a friendly, affordable city.
- Suggest Courses: Psychology (BSc), Psychology (MSc), Children’s Psychological Disorders (MSc)
- Entry Requirements: A*AA-AAB, IB 37-34 overall including 6 in one HL subject or 766-666 in 3 HL subjects.
- International Fee: £29,450 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 181
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
8. Loughborough University
Loughborough University might be overlooked on the list of top universities for psychology in the UK. It is actually top 10 in the UK for Psychology in The Complete University Guide 2026 and accredited by the British Psychological Society. Whether you are interested in Psychology, Psychology in Education, Psychology with Criminology, or Sport and Exercise Psychology, you will gain insights into the very latest developments at Loughborough University.
Loughborough is well-known for applied psychology, especially in sport, health, and human performance, offering unique interdisciplinary opportunities. It suits students who want practical experience, strong student support, and an active campus lifestyle. Great for those interested in applied research or performance psychology careers.
- Suggest Courses: Psychology BSc (Hons)
- Entry Requirements: AAB, IB 35 (6,6,5 HL), GCSE Maths grade 5/C and GCSE English Language grade 6/B
- International Fee: £29,750
- QS Ranking 2026: 225
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
9. University of Exeter
Another top unis for psychology in the UK is the University of Exeter, ranked Top 100 in the world for Psychology in QS World University Rankings 2025, 9th in the Complete University Guide 2026, and 9th in the Guardian University Guide 2026. It aims to deliver world-leading psychology research and education, underpinned by robust methods, high-quality facilities, and strategic partnerships, to improve our understanding of mind and behaviour across the lifespan and across species.
Exeter offers a strong balance of research and applied learning, with particular strengths in clinical psychology, mental health and human behaviour. Ideal for students who want a supportive environment with strong employability outcomes. Best for those planning careers in counselling, mental health services or postgraduate study.
- Suggest Courses: BSc Psychology, MSci Applied Psychology (Clinical)
- Entry Requirements: AAA with A in a Science subject, IB36/666, GCSE B or 5 in Mathematics and C or 4 in English Language.
- International Fee: £30,900 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 155
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
10. University College London
The University College London is a top-ranked university in the UK for research power in Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience according to the UK’s Research Excellence Framework 2021. Its Division of Psychology and Language Sciences is the largest and highest-ranked psychology department in the UK, offering a research-embedded approach to learning and teaching across the areas of mind, behaviour, and language.
UCL’s world-leading psychology department offers exceptional research facilities, wide module choices and strong international recognition. It’s perfect for students aiming for competitive postgraduate pathways or global career prospects. Best for those who want a research-intensive experience in a major international city.
- Suggest Courses: Experimental Linguistics BSc and Experimental Linguistics (International Programme) BSc, Psychology BSc, Psychology MSci,
- Entry Requirements: AAB, GCSEs English Language at grade B or 6 and Mathematics at grade C or 4, at least one subject from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology, IB 36 points
- International Fee: £29,800 per year
- QS Ranking 2026: 9
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
Top 30 Universities for Psychology UK
Beyond the top 10 psychology universities in the UK, there is a wide range of excellent institutions ranked between 11 and 30 that offer strong academic training, diverse specialization pathways, and more flexible entry requirements. These universities combine reputable research quality with practical, career-focused psychology programmes—making them great options for students who want strong outcomes but may prefer broader location choices, lower tuition, or a more balanced campus environment. The following overview provides a clear comparison of UK Rank, entry requirements, QS 2026 standing, key psychology strengths, and who each university is best suited for.
| University | UK Rank 2026 | QS 2026 Rank | Typical Entry Requirement | Psychology Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| King’s College London | 11 | 31 | A*AA–AAA | Clinical, neuroscience, mental health | Students aiming for clinical or research careers |
| Durham University | 12 | 94 | AAA | Cognitive & behavioural science | Academically strong students wanting a collegiate environment |
| University of Warwick | 13 | 74 | A*AA–AAA | Applied, behavioural, organisational psychology | Students wanting employability + psychology balance |
| University of Glasgow | 14 | 79 | AAB–AAA | Cognitive neuroscience, health psychology | Students preferring Scotland’s 4-year structure |
| University of Bristol | 15 | 51 | A*AA–AAA | Research-led psychology, neuropsychology | Students targeting research-intensive universities |
| University of Sheffield | 16 | 92 | AAB–AAA | Social, developmental psychology | Students wanting strong value + city life |
| University of Edinburgh | 17 | 34 | AAA–A*AA | Cognitive, developmental, research psychology | Students aiming for postgraduate or research routes |
| University of Birmingham | 18 | 76 | AAA–AAB | Clinical, counselling, mental health | Students focused on mental health professions |
| University of Nottingham | 19 | 97 | AAB–AAA | Cognitive & applied psychology | Students wanting balance of cost, campus & academics |
| University of Strathclyde | 20 | 251 | BBB–AAB | Applied & behavioural psychology | Students looking for applied learning pathways |
| University of Surrey | 21 | 262 | ABB–AAB | Health & clinical psychology | Career-focused students seeking practical training |
| University of Southampton | 22 | 87 | AAA–AAB | Cognitive & applied psychology | Students wanting research + application mix |
| Newcastle University | 23 | 137 | AAB–AAA | Clinical & cognitive psychology | Students wanting big-city life with medical links |
| University of Leeds | 24 | 86 | AAA–AAB | Cognitive neuroscience & social psychology | Students wanting a large, research-driven university |
| University of Reading | 25 | 194 | ABB–AAB | Clinical & developmental psychology | Students seeking supportive teaching & moderate entry bar |
| University of Manchester | 26 | 35 | AAA | Cognitive neuroscience, mental health | Students targeting a globally recognised university |
| Royal Holloway, University of London | 27 | 461 | ABB–AAB | Biological & cognitive psychology | Students wanting London access but lower costs |
| Lancaster University | 28 | 157 | ABB–AAB | Developmental & applied psychology | Students seeking high satisfaction & campus environment |
| University of Liverpool | 29 | 147 | ABB–BBB | Clinical & social psychology | Students wanting city life + strong support services |
| University of East Anglia (UEA) | 30 | 381 | ABB–BBB | Mental health & counselling | Students drawn to wellbeing/mental health fields |
Conclusion on Best Universities for Psychology UK
The above listed best universities for psychology in the UK will be your first choice if you’re interested in related courses. They are not only prestigious in Psychology studies, but also enjoy high student satisfaction and a welcoming community. Psychologist is a prospective and lucrative career in Britain, with an average salary starting from £46,000 per year. Join this path and start your student journey in the UK!
FAQ
Which is the best university to study psychology in the UK?
The University of Oxford and University of Cambridge are often considered the best for psychology in the UK, offering world-class research, faculty, and resources. Other top universities include University College London (UCL) and the University of Manchester.
What qualifications do I need to study psychology in the UK?
To study psychology in the UK, you typically need A-levels (or equivalent) in subjects like psychology, biology, or mathematics. For undergraduate programs, a strong academic record is required. For postgraduate study, a relevant undergraduate degree, often with at least a 2:1 classification, is necessary. Additional qualifications may be required for certain specializations.
Why should I study at the top universities for psychology in the UK?
Studying at top UK universities for psychology offers access to world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge research, and excellent career prospects. You’ll gain exposure to diverse perspectives, advanced resources, and networking opportunities, which can enhance your academic experience and increase your chances of success in competitive psychology careers.
What A levels do I need for psychology?
For studying Psychology at university, it’s recommended to have A-levels in Psychology (if available), Mathematics, and Biology. Some universities may also accept subjects like Sociology, Philosophy, or English. Always check specific course requirements, as they may vary depending on the university and program.
What is the highest paying field in Psychology UK?
In the UK, clinical psychology, particularly roles in specialized areas like neuropsychology or forensic psychology, tends to be the highest-paying field. Experienced clinical psychologists or those working in private practice can earn significant salaries, often exceeding £50,000 annually.
Are psychology degrees accredited or recognised in the UK?
Yes, psychology degrees in the UK can be accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Graduating from an accredited program is essential for those aiming to pursue a career as a Chartered Psychologist, ensuring recognition and professional standards.
