Hi

I am currently a final year Psychology Undergrad and have recently secured ESRC 1+3 funding (wooo!) to start this Sept. I was considered for all funding opportunities at the University (they had a few different funded places) but I was told that I would not stand a chance of getting funding that just paid for a PhD as I did not have a MSc. They said it is possible to get a PhD without a MSc, but that the sheer number of applicants meant that I would not measure up to those who already have a masters - therefore I had a better chance getting a funded place that paid for a masters too.

I had interviews at a few different Universities. I worked as a Research Assistant for 12 weeks in the summer between my 2nd and 3rd year of my undergraduate degree on an EPS bursary (like the Nuffield one you spoke about). I personally feel that this is what clinched it for me - every interview / discussion I had with people involved speaking about the summer project. The university that I will be doing my MSc and PhD at even said that the summer placement gave me a distinct advantage over other undergrads.

I strongly recommend you try to get some form of research experience over the summer. I have a published paper and a conference poster presentation under my belt thanks to the summer placement.

Also, you really should push for a first class grade. There are so, so many applications that you really need to stand out. I'm on track for a 1:1, but require a 2:1 to start my course.

Good luck :-)