Psychological and Behavioural Sciences
Psychological and Behavioural Sciences (PBS) is a three-year course covering cognitive, social, developmental, and biological psychology within the broader context of the behavioural sciences.
At a glance
A Level requirements: A*A*A
IB requirements: 41-42 points overall with 7, 7, 6 at Higher Level
Subject requirements: At least one of Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Physics
Average students per year: 4-5
Admissions assessment: None
Written work: None
Admissions
Course overview
Psychological and Behavioural Sciences (PBS) gives you the opportunity to study cognitive, social, developmental and biological psychology within the broader context of the behavioural sciences. The course covers, for example, statistics and data-science, cognitive psychology, psychopathology, brain mechanisms, family relationships, personality, and group social behaviour. Teaching is provided through lectures, classes or seminars, and small-group supervisions. Some papers include a practical element, which takes place in laboratories. Students take four papers each year. Some papers are compulsory; others are chosen from a wide range of options within natural or social sciences. This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This means that if you successfully graduate with at least second class Honours you’ll get the 'graduate recognition' you need to pursue a career in psychology.
For more information about the course and its modules, visit the University website.
What do we look for in an applicant to PBS?
The best PBS students are genuinely interested in understanding the mind and behaviour. They are intellectually curious, can think critically, and can engage with complex ideas. They are also comfortable with data analysis, possess strong analytical skills, and are able to articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively.
A top tip for applicants to PBS at King's
Explore your academic interests outside of the school or college curriculum, and come prepared to talk about them at interview.
Find out more about PBS
You can find our more about PBS by visiting the University website and the Department of Psychology website.
King's also runs Open Days where you can get a taste of life as a student here.
Life as a King's PBS student
PBS students at King’s usually have two to three hours of lectures or practicals each day, and will spend the rest of the day either reading and/or writing essays, or attending supervisions. For each paper they are taking, students have weekly or fortnightly supervisions, which usually means two to four supervisions per week. They are expected to spend the rest of their time engaging in independent study. In supervisions, students discuss their work and develop their reasoning and ideas. For each of the papers they are taking, students will usually produce written work in preparation for supervision every two weeks (so typically four pieces per term in each paper).
At King’s, we usually admit four to five PBS students per year. A typical supervision is one hour long. Depending on the paper, it will either include a discussion on the topic of the supervision or working through a problem sheet. Supervisors provide students with feedback on their work and discuss how they might improve.
From the welcoming community of students to the engagement of academics, King's has provided an incredibly friendly and supportive environment. The variety of modules offered within PBS allows us to engage in both theoretical and practical work across a range of disciplines, ensuring we have a well-rounded understanding of our subject - and beyond!
- Anaiya, 1st year
Studying PBS at Kings is very empowering because of the diverse community of fellows that are always available to advise and support us. Many of them bring expertise from different fields, which helps not only with our educational needs but also with career development. The college also provides great opportunities, such as the Summer Research Programme, where we can explore our different interests through valuable research experience.
- Imisi, 2nd year
Careers and graduate opportunities
Psychology is very diverse and provides a wide range of possible career choices. Many of our graduates continue with further study and research, or undertake professional courses in clinical, educational, forensic, or applied psychology. Other King's students have opted for alternative careers: the skills and knowledge you acquire on the PBS course can lead to careers in the media, management, government administration, finance or business, to name a few.
