Diploma in Psychology

Course details

Psychology is one of the most exciting and interesting subjects to study at third level. It is the study of human behaviour in all its forms, normal and abnormal, nature and learned, productive and destructive. It is a modern and progressive area of study and, despite having a 150-year history, is currently experiencing unprecedented growth and development in Ireland and internationally.

“A great introduction to the world of psychology, I found the Diploma in Psychology to be an extremely interesting programme which opened a whole new world for me. The lecturers were very supportive and I am now progressing to the BA (Hons) in Psychology at DBS.”

Christine Tannam

Programme Aims and Objectives

The Diploma in Psychology allows learners to complete three core modules within the BA (Hons) in Psychology degree in DBS School of Arts and explore their own learning in a manner that allows them to exit, if they wish, after a year of study with a Diploma or continue as a part-time psychology learner (to progress to the degree programme students must meet minimum entry requirements for part-time students). Across the programme, three key areas are studied: Psychological Foundations, Foundations in Social Psychology, and Developmental Psychology. Psychology is clearly wide-ranging, and this is represented in the programme. Learners take modules in theoretical and applied aspects of psychology with the objective to inspire in learners an appreciation of the empirical methods of research into human behaviour.

Course Structure

The Diploma in Psychology favours a learner centred learning approach under which lecturers introduce learners to subject areas and act as guides and facilitators to learners in their study of the subject. Within each module there will be plenty of scope for traditional lectures, seminars, and practicals. The emphasis will be at all times on interaction and participation. These lectures, seminars, and practicals will provide an opportunity for a necessary variety of learner-focused activities and will also provide a further opportunity to support and develop learner engagement with the programme.

Assessment

To be awarded the Diploma in Psychology, learners will be required to complete continuous assessment for all three subjects and two end of year examinations. Continuous assessment will vary in style and purpose from module to module, depending upon the nature of the subject material and the teaching and learning objectives of the module. Assessments may include essays, multiple-choice questionnaire, short answer in-class examination, oral presentation, group work, and poster presentations. End of year examinations are typically held in late April/early May for the September intake and in January for the Spring intake.

Programme Content

Psychological Foundations

This module introduces learners to psychology and related fields of study, as well as much of the terminology that is used in the subject of psychology. It distinguishes the scientific discipline of psychology from popular psychology and highlights the importance of research, statistics and ethics. The module presents an historical overview focusing on famous figures and landmark studies. Learners will be encouraged to reflect on their own thoughts and biases.

Foundations in Social Psychology

This module introduces the main themes and issues concerned with social psychology, spanning the past to the present. The contribution made by social psychology to the understanding of the Individuals, the social context, and the relationship between the two is explored throughout the module. Central theories of social psychology will be discussed and will provide the foundation from which to review empirical research. In addition, learners will begin to apply social psychology concepts to real world concerns.

Developmental Psychology

This module introduces the subject of developmental psychology, which can be defined as the systematic study of the developing person across the lifespan. It aims to provide an introduction to the study of human development. The changes that occur across different domains of development throughout infancy and childhood will be explored. Developmental theories and concepts, and the methods involved in developmental research will be discussed. The module will touch upon some of the key critical issues and frameworks that shape our understanding of development, which include the nature versus nurture debate, continuity versus discontinuity, and how biological, social and cognitive factors interact and influence our development.