Psychology

Welcome to the Psychology Subject Area at Birmingham Newman University.

I’m Lorna Dodd, the Head of Psychology. If you’re enrolled in the Single Honours (SH) Psychology programme, I will also be your Programme Leader.

My role as a Programme Leader is to oversee the programme, providing guidance and support throughout your academic journey.

Welcome information

Pre-induction activities

Preparing for Your Psychology Programme

Before you begin your studies, we highly recommend exploring the Birmingham Newman University website. There, you’ll find detailed information about your Psychology programme, including module overviews, assessment types, and student experiences. You can also watch videos featuring current Psychology students sharing what it’s like to study at Newman—offering valuable insight into student life and learning.

Recommended Reading

To get a head start on your academic journey, you may wish to read the following textbook, which covers all the core areas of psychology:

  • Davey, G. (2014). Complete Psychology (2nd ed.). London: Routledge.

This book offers a solid introduction to foundational topics in psychology and will help prepare you for the material you’ll encounter in your degree.

Explore Psychology Careers

To learn more about potential career paths in psychology, visit the British Psychological Society (BPS) website:

Career Options in Psychology – BPS

Your teaching team

Meet the Psychology Team
At Birmingham Newman University, our Psychology team is dedicated to supporting you throughout your academic journey. Led by Lorna Dodd, Head of Psychology and Programme Leader for Single Honours Psychology, the department is made up of experienced academics and supportive staff committed to helping you succeed.

If you’re enrolled on one of our Psychology programmes with another subject e.g., Psychology with Criminology, your Programme Leader will be:

Head of Psychology
Dr. Lorna Dodd: l.dodd@staff.newman.ac.uk
SH Psychology with Criminology
Programme Leader: Dr. James Adie: j.adie@staff.newman.ac.uk
SH Forensic Psychology
Programme Leader: Dr. Flo Pearce: f.pearce@staff.newman.ac.uk
SH Psychology with Childhood Studies
Programme Leader: Dr. Kate McGarry: k.mcgarry@staff.newman.ac.uk
SH Psychology with Counselling Studies
Programme Leader: Ms. Anatoli Karypidou: a.karypidou@staff.newman.ac.uk
Beyond your Programme Leader, you’ll be taught and supported by a team of passionate psychology professionals with a wide range of expertise. Whether it’s academic guidance, research supervision, or general support, we’re here to help you thrive.

We’re excited to welcome you to the department and look forward to being part of your university experience.

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Module delivery

Studying Psychology at Birmingham Newman University

The Psychology programmes at Birmingham Newman University offer a rich and immersive learning experience. Our curriculum covers a wide range of core areas, including social psychology, individual differences, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, research methods, and classical and contemporary issues. As a Psychology student, you’ll become part of a vibrant and collaborative academic community, where shared learning and support are central to your experience.

Our Approach to Teaching and Learning

Interactive Campus Lectures

Our lectures are designed to be dynamic and engaging. Using a variety of teaching methods, they introduce you to key psychological theories and concepts, encouraging active participation and deeper understanding.

Workshops and Seminars

After lectures, you’ll take part in small-group workshops and seminars. These hands-on sessions are where theory meets practice—helping you develop your analytical skills and apply what you’ve learned in meaningful, practical ways.

Campus-Based Learning

Most of your learning takes place on campus, where you’ll benefit from direct interaction with your lecturers and peers. This face-to-face environment supports academic development and fosters a strong sense of community.

Technology-Enhanced Learning

While in-person teaching is at the core of our approach, it’s enhanced by a range of digital tools and online resources. These allow you to access learning materials, engage with interactive content, and receive support beyond classroom hours—offering flexibility and reinforcement to your studies.

The Benefits of Our Learning Environment

  • Interactive and Engaging – Our teaching methods encourage curiosity, discussion, and critical thinking.
  • Practice-Based Learning – Workshops and seminars provide valuable opportunities to apply psychological concepts in real-world contexts.
  • Community-Focused – You’ll study alongside fellow Psychology students in a supportive, collaborative academic environment.

At Birmingham Newman University, we combine the best of traditional and innovative teaching to help you grow intellectually, professionally, and personally—equipping you with the knowledge and skills for a successful future in psychology.

Choose your programme

Select your degree programme below to find your tailored Welcome information.

Psychology

Programme Leader

Induction activities

  • Tuesday 16 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8.45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 10:30am: ID check 
    • 10:30am to 11:30am – Room ST104: Introduction to your Programme, Getting to know each other
    • 12:30pm to 1:30pm – Room HI001: Accessing My Newman, Moodle, Self-Service Portal, Timetable, Moodle Forum Activity, Email set up and sending emails
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8.45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Library and Student Success Session (student support)
    • 10am to 12pm – Room DA115: Getting to know the Campus – Treasure Hunt, team building exercise, APT session

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Course timetable information

Semester 1

Week beginning 22/09/2025

  • Mondays: 2pm to 5pm
  • Tuesdays: 3pm to 5pm
  • Thursdays: 12pm to 3pm and 4pm to 5pm

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed online enrolment and set up your student login.

Psychology and Childhoods studies

Programme Leader

Induction activities

  • Tuesday 16 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8.45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 11am – Room DA006: Introduction to your Programme, Getting to know each other
    • 11am to 11:30am: ID check 
    • 12:30pm to 1:30pm – Room ST104: Accessing My Newman, Moodle, Self-Service Portal, Timetable, Moodle Forum Activity, Email set up and sending emails
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8.45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 12pm – Room ST104: Getting to know the campus – Treasure hunt, Team building exercise, APT session

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Course timetable information

Semester 1

Week beginning 22/09/2025

  • Mondays: 10am to 1pm
  • Tuesdays: 3pm to 5pm
  • Thursdays: 12pm to 2pm and 3pm to 5pm

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed online enrolment and set up your student login.

Psychology with Counselling

Programme Leader

Induction activities

  • Tuesday 16 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 10:30am – Room HI101: Tutorial
    • 10:30am to 11:00am: ID check 
    • 11am to 12pm – Room MC015: Introduction to your Programme, Getting to know each other
    • 12:30pm to 1:30pm – Room DA115: Accessing My Newman, Moodle, Self-Service Portal, Timetable, Moodle Forum Activity, Email set up and sending emails
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 12pm – Room DA116: Getting to know the Campus – Treasure Hunt, team building exercise, APT session

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Course timetable information

Semester 1

Week beginning 22/09/2025

  • Mondays: 9am to 10am and 11am to 1pm
  • Tuesdays: 3pm to 5pm
  • Thursdays: 12pm to 2pm, 2pm to 3pm and 3pm to 4pm

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed online enrolment and set up your student login.

Psychology with Criminology

Programme Leader

Induction activities

  • Tuesday 16 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 10:30am – Room HI102: Tutorial
    • 10:30am to 11:00am: ID check 
    • 11:00am to 12pm – Room HI102: Introduction to your Programme, Getting to know each other
    • 12:30pm to 1:30pm – Room DA116: Accessing My Newman, Moodle, Self-Service Portal, Timetable, Moodle Forum Activity, Email set up and sending emails
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 12pm – Room MC015: Getting to know the Campus – Treasure Hunt, team building exercise, APT session

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Course timetable information

Semester 1

Week beginning 22/09/2025

  • Mondays: 3pm to 6pm
  • Tuesdays: 3pm to 5pm
  • Thursdays: 12pm to 2pm, 2pm to 3pm and 3pm to 4pm

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed online enrolment and set up your student login.

Forensic Psychology

Programme Leader

Induction activities

  • Tuesday 16 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am – Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 11am – Room DA020: Introduction to your Programme, Getting to know each other
    • 11am to 11:30am: ID check 
    • 12:30pm to 1:30pm – Room DW011: Accessing My Newman, Moodle, Self-Service Portal, Timetable, Moodle Forum Activity, Email set up and sending emails
  • Thursday 18 September 2025
  • Please make your way to reception for 8:45am and you will be directed to your first session:
    • 9am to 10am Room ST111: Welcome and Introduction
    • 10am to 12pm – Room ST105: Getting to know the Campus – Treasure Hunt, team building exercise, APT session

IMPORTANT: Please bring your photo ID with you to complete the ID verification check for Student Finance confirmation.

Course timetable information

Semester 1

Week beginning 22/09/2025

  • Mondays: 2pm to 4pm and 5pm to 6pm
  • Tuesdays: 3pm to 5pm
  • Thursdays: 12pm to 2pm, 3pm to 4pm and 4pm to 5pm

Full details of your individual academic timetable, including Semester 2 timetable which may differ, will be available via your university email calendar after you have completed online enrolment and set up your student login.

Welcome Week Services Fair – Your Chance to Meet the Teams

As part of your induction to Birmingham Newman University, our Services Fair is your opportunity to meet the teams who will support you throughout your studies and explore the services available to help you succeed.

Dates & Times

  • 1 September – 11am – 2pm
  • 4 & 5 September – 11:30am to 1pm
  • 15, 17, 18 & 19 September – 11am to 2pm

Note: The Students’ Union Welcome Fair will take place on 16 September – see their website for more details.

You’re welcome to drop in and take part on any of the fair dates — it doesn’t have to be the day of your induction.

  • Chat with Careers about your future plans, grab some sweets and an employability bag, and register on My Career for a chance to win a £25 Amazon voucher.
  • Make a badge with our Environmental Officer, download the OurNewman app to spin the wheel and win a prize, and join the Library for Q&A activities and their Prize Every Time Lucky Dip.
  • Advice & Wellbeing will be offering stress tests, sound therapy, and an Affirmation Station, while E-Learning invites you to take their “Who You Gonna Call?” quiz for a prize draw entry.
  • Try the Sport team’s exercise bike challenge and visit the Chaplaincy to choose the “word of the day” and share some positivity.

And that’s just the start — there’ll be many more services, activities, and opportunities to explore each day of the fair. Come along, get involved, and make the most of what’s on offer!

The Disability & Inclusion team and the Advice & Wellbeing team will be holding drop-in sessions on campus from 15–19 September.

Drop-in sessions: Dates & Times

  • 15 September – 11am to 2pm: DW102 (Dimple – Disability & Inclusion)
  • 16 September – 11am to 2pm: DW101 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
  • 17 September – 11am to 2pm: DW102 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
  • 18 September – 11am to 2pm: CH116 (Jas – Advice & Wellbeing)
  • 19 September – 11am to 2pm: CH004 (Dimple – Disability & Inclusion)

No appointment needed – just drop in for advice, support, and guidance

Student Services and Support

Induction

Teaching starts

Subject Leader

Stay connected with OurNewman app

OurNewman is your go-to place for everything you need as a Birmingham Newman student. With the app, you can:

  • Receive personalised notifications about your course, timetable, and deadlines
  • Access to your files, emails, and course resources
  • Find support services and keep up to date with campus events

Student Handbook

Student Handbook

Download (PDF – 3.68MB)

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