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Murray Edwards College
University of Cambridge

Psychological and Behavioural Sciences

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Psychological and Behavioural Sciences (PBS) at Cambridge gives students the opportunity to study cognitive, social, developmental and biological psychology within the broader context of the behavioural sciences.  It is an exciting course, which allows students to build firm foundations in the core areas of psychology, before specialising in a particular area of interest. PBS students all follow a core training in Psychology, but also have the opportunity to complement this by choosing from a selection of related papers, including some offered by other Departments. More details about the course can be found on the University website

Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at Murray Edwards College

We aim to admit three or four students a year for PBS, so you will be part of a cohort of around 10 undergraduate students in the College at any one time. Each year we have a subject-specific dinner for undergraduates, postgraduates and Fellows to help foster the mixing of all College members involved in Psychology. Students can also engage beyond their PBS topics through College societies, such as the student-run Franklin Society which organises events for those interested in science, including talks from invited speakers. 

Typical offer
A Level: A*AA with A* in Mathematics or Biology (if offered)
IB: 42, 776 with 7 in IB Higher Level Mathematics or IB Higher Level Biology (if offered)

Required subjects
No specific subjects are required.

It is desirable that candidates have studied at least one science (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) and/or Mathematics at A Level or equivalent, but this is not a formal requirement. Previous study of Psychology is neither particularly recommended nor a disadvantage. A typical competitive candidate will have studied a range of academically demanding subjects in both sciences and in humanities/social sciences.

Admissions Assessment
Murray Edwards applicants for PBS are required to take a written assessment if shortlisted for interview.  You will not need to register in advance for this assessment and the College will provide details directly to you.

Written work
Murray Edwards applicants are required to submit two pieces of written work prior to interview.

Academic and teaching staff

  • Fellow in Psychological & Behavioural Sciences; Director of Studies