Workplaces are changing fast. From hybrid teams and digital transformation to constant organisational restructuring, employees face new pressures every day. Leaders are being asked not just to manage processes, but to understand people—what motivates them, what stresses them, and how to help them thrive.
Understanding human behaviour has never been more important, and it’s at the heart of Business Psychology. At QMU, the new BA (Hons) Business Psychology lets students explore these challenges first-hand, combining psychological insight with business knowledge to help create workplaces that are resilient, innovative, and healthy.
The value of understanding people in business
Imagine a team struggling to adapt to a new software system, or a manager trying to motivate employees across different locations. Knowing the psychology behind behaviour, decision-making, and motivation can make the difference between success and frustration.
Business Psychology equips students with these tools. Through modules covering leadership, talent management, consumer behaviour, and organisational strategy, learners develop skills that are increasingly sought after in roles like HR, organisational development, change management, and marketing.
Building resilient and innovative teams
Change is a constant in today’s workplaces. But while some teams embrace it, others resist. That’s where Business Psychology comes in. Students explore how to create organisational cultures that are open to change, support experimentation, and encourage creative problem-solving.
QMU’s course includes a Leading and Managing Change module, where students analyse how organisations implement transformation successfully—or fail. Complemented by learning in areas such as Digital Business and Innovation, students gain insight into both the human and strategic sides of business.
Mental health: good for people, good for business
The numbers tell a clear story. Poor mental health costs the UK economy billions each year through absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover. At the same time, investing in wellbeing pays off—every pound spent on employee mental health can return more than four in value.
Business Psychology explores why this matters and how it can be addressed in practice. QMU’s course includes modules on Individual Differences, Wellbeing, and Ethical Practice, giving students the knowledge to design supportive, psychologically-informed strategies that benefit both employees and organisations.
Preventing burnout and supporting balance
Burnout is one of the biggest challenges facing employees today. Surveys suggest that up to 85% of workers experience burnout or exhaustion, with younger workers often feeling the greatest strain.
By understanding what drives stress, engagement, and motivation, Business Psychology helps future leaders develop solutions—whether through more supportive leadership, clearer communication, or better work-life balance initiatives. The result is workplaces where people can perform at their best without sacrificing wellbeing.
Why study Business Psychology at QMU?
What makes QMU a strong place to study this new degree? For one, the University has well-established Business and Psychology programmes, giving students access to experienced faculty, robust resources, and a supportive learning environment. Students also benefit from QMU’s Startup Studio—a dedicated hub for entrepreneurial support where they can access expert guidance, resources, and space to develop their ideas into real-world ventures.
The BA (Hons) Business Psychology is designed to combine theory and practice. Students engage in hands-on projects, hear from industry experts, and can tailor their final year dissertation to reflect their interests or career goals. This focus on real-world application prepares graduates to enter the workforce with the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful impact.
Looking ahead
As organisations continue to evolve, there is growing demand for professionals who understand people as well as business. QMU’s new BA (Hons) Business Psychology offers a chance to explore these challenges and develop the skills to lead, innovate, and create healthier workplaces.
If you’re curious about how psychology and business intersect, and want to help shape the workplaces of tomorrow, QMU’s Business Psychology course could be the place to start your journey.
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