What will I learn on this module?
The Study Abroad module is single semester 60 credit (30 ECTS) module which is available on the BSc (Hons) Psychology Framework, in level 5 semester 1. You will undertake a semester abroad at a partner university equivalent to 60 UK credits. This gives you access to psychology modules taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). In order to ensure you meet the curriculum requirements for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS), you will be required to choose modules that allow you to study, and be assessed on your knowledge of, Psychobiology and Quantitative Research Methods, the remaining credits may be studied in any area of psychology. Your programme leader must see, and approve, the module descriptors of your chosen modules from the host institution.
Your study abroad semester will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. Therefore, it will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 60 credit Study Abroad Module. You will also receive a transcript of marks from your host university, showing the modules studied and marks awarded.
How will I learn on this module?
Varies according to partner University/programme of study.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Pre-departure: You will be required to attend relevant presentations and meet with Study Abroad Tutor, Personal Tutor, Programme Leader and any other necessary Faculty staff to satisfy any specific requirements.
On Study Abroad placement: Support will be provided by the host University. Additionally the Personal Tutor and Study Abroad Tutor will maintain contact with you throughout the study abroad placement.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• MKU1: To acquire a broader, international and culturally informed understanding of their subject discipline
• MKU2: You will be expected to demonstrate critical understanding of a range of advanced quantitative research methods and data analysis techniques
• MKU3: You will be expected to demonstrate conceptual knowledge of key topics in psychobiology and convey this knowledge succinctly.
• MKU4: You will be able to critically evaluate different perspectives in psychobiology based on the best available evidence and research
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• IPSA1: To experience different cultural approaches to learning, study and academic development
• IPSA2: To acquire intercultural competence, cross-cultural literacy, and (where relevant) to practice foreign-language skills
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• PVA1: To develop enhanced, culturally sensitive communication and interpersonal skills
How will I be assessed?
1. Formative Assessment process: Varies according to host University
2. Summative Assessment process: Transcript of Results
The module assesses your academic performance on modules studied at the host University and is graded on a pass/fail basis. In order to pass the module, you have to take and pass the equivalent of 60 Northumbria credits at the host institution (as documented by the transcript). This satisfies MKU1; IPSA1; IPSA2; and PVA1
The modules studied, and passed, must cover Psychobiology and Quantitative Methods in order to satisfy MKU2 – 4.
The Study Abroad Semester does not contribute to classification.
3. Feedback process: Varies according to host University
Additional formative assessment
1. Learning contract
Prior to commencing your Study Abroad Semester, you will complete a learning contract which is made up of a self-assessment questionnaire, identification of personal objectives and a schedule (with brief details) of the modules chosen for study. This is to encourage you to plan your Study Abroad Semester in a structured manner, ensure active involvement in the learning experience and provide the teaching team with an overview of the study abroad semester and intended outcomes.
2. Study Log
During the Study Abroad Semester, students will be encouraged to maintain a Study Log which details the title, duration and level (year) of each subject studied, all assessment marks awarded and a commentary on the learning experience for each module.
Pre-requisite(s)
- Attend pre-departure briefings and training workshops as required.
- Successful completion of Level 4
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
The module aims to introduce you to the experience of psychology and more broadly, academic study, in a different country. It aims to challenge preconceptions and assumptions about higher education teaching through exposure to different academic approaches. You will be expected to develop resilience and flexibility as they adapt to different teaching styles and different administrative procedures, and to living in a new country. You are expected to develop your communication skills and gain a perspective by comparing your experience in the UK and abroad. You will be encouraged to critically engage with the academic practices and various modes of study within the host university, and to reflect on your educational development in the context of the challenges posed by everyday life in an unfamiliar social and economic environment.
Course info
UCAS Code C800
Credits 60
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with optional study abroad year
Department Psychology
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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