Study at the University of Essex via an IYO in Life Sciences or Psychology

Study and International Year One (IYO) course at the University of Essex International College and fast-track to an Essex degrees! These IYOs will offer progression to the second year of a Psychology-related or Life Sciences-related degree at the University of Essex.

International Year One in Psychology

This is Kaplan’s first ever International Year One in Psychology, and will give you full preparation for a Psychology degree at the University of Essex.

The IYO combines degree preparation, including enhancing your study skills and English language level, with the first year of an Essex undergraduate degree. When you successfully pass your course at the required level, with good attendance, you’ll progress to Year 2 of your chosen degree.

The University of Essex ranks 46th in the UK for Psychology (Guardian University Guide 2025).

Psychology degrees at Essex are accredited by the British Psychological Society, which means you’ll be able to apply for Graduate Membership of the Society when you finish your degree.

Its strong rankings in the field are in part down to the University’s exceptional facilities, including the Brain Centre for Research. This purpose-built research centre is home to numerous specialist labs, with state-of-the-art equipment that allows users to directly measure and modulate brain activity.

International Year One in Life Sciences

Also new to Kaplan is the International Year One in Life Sciences, which offers you the chance to progress directly to year 2 of a related undergraduate degree. Expert teachers will help you develop your English language level, and the skills you’ll need for your degree studies.

The University of Essex is ranked in the world top 250 for the Life Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023). Within the UK, its Biosciences degrees are ranked 11th for graduate prospects by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023.

Depending on your degree, studying Life Sciences at the University of Essex could allow you to explore exciting and topical areas such as cloning, gene manipulation and bioinformatics.

Alternatively, you could explore cancer biology, immunology or other vital medical issues that will shape the future. On some degrees, you’ll be able to further customise your studies to suit your specific interests.

Why choose the University of Essex?

At the University of Essex, you’ll enjoy a great education on a traditional campus within the grounds of the historic Wivenhoe Park, just outside of Colchester. The University has been a pioneering academic institution in the UK for decades, and is ranked in the country’s top 40 universities (Complete University Guide 2023).

You’ll be joining a truly international community at Essex, with students from more than 140 countries on campus. And, while you’ll be living less than an hour from London, you can expect a lower cost of living. At Essex, you’ll be able to enjoy a rewarding study experience, join student societies and see more of the UK by getting out and exploring!