If you’re thinking of studying psychology, you might be wondering what the best universities for psychology are. We’ve put together a list highlighting some of the best UK psychology universities.
Updated: 18 Jan 2026
Using our sister site Complete University Guide’s league tables, we’ve put together a list of UK universities that rank top for psychology across different areas and nations to help you make your decision.
Birmingham Newman University
A newer university in the grand scheme of things, Birmingham Newman University was founded in 1968 with a big focus on community alongside education. With its close ties to local businesses, charities and school, it's a great choice for students looking to get real industry experience while they study.
NEXT: Read what students think of psychology at Birmingham Newman University
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is one of the most well-respected social science universities in the world. Founded in 1895, it offers one of the world’s largest social science libraries and 19 research centres, so students will find the uni well-equipped. Its central London location offers students everything they could need from their uni experience, and the local transport network of buses and trains makes travel across the city and further afield easy.
NEXT: Read what students think of psychology at London School of Economics and Political Science.
University of Oxford
One of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford is internationally respected. Its long and rich history dates back as far as 1096, as evidence of teaching dates back this far. The picturesque city offers plenty of history and culture as well, with several museums in the local area, as well as lots of beautiful architecture. The city is also well-connected, located just over an hour’s train journey from London.
NEXT: Read what students think of psychology at the University of Oxford.
University of St Andrews
St Andrews is one of the world’s oldest universities, with a history dating back to 1413, offering plenty of history to explore during your studies. As a seaside town, students of the uni can benefit from the proximity to the coast as well as everything the compact town has to offer. In the town, you’ll find a range of things to do including museums, a botanic garden and an aquarium, as well as golf courses and the typical student offerings: bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes. The university also boasts several famous graduates including Benjamin Franklin, JM Barrie, Prince William and Kate Middleton.
NEXT: Read what students think of psychology at the University of St Andrews.
Cardiff University
With over 20,000 students and 100 different nationalities represented, Cardiff University is definitely a good choice if you’re looking for a large and diverse uni. Located in the capital city of Wales, the uni benefits from good transport connections via Cardiff Station as well as everything a capital city has to offer. The city is relatively compact, so you won’t have trouble finding what you need within walking distance. On your walks, you’ll find a wide range of bars, pubs and clubs to keep you busy at night as well as museums, galleries and cinemas to entertain you during the day.
NEXT: Read what students think of the University of Cardiff
Queen's University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is a well-respected and renowned institution. Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city, the uni is near the compact town centre, which you can easily explore by foot or on bike, though there’s also a strong local transport network across the city for those who would prefer to take a bus. In Belfast, you’ll find plenty of nightlife, entertainment and culture to keep you busy when you’re not studying, and you’re also close to spots of natural beauty such as Giant’s Causeway.
NEXT: Read what students think of Queen's University Belfast
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford also took the top spot for best uni for Psychology overall.