Diploma in Psychology

Course details

About The course

The Diploma in Psychology at City Colleges aims to introduce students to the main topics often taught on modern psychology courses. These topics include developmental and lifespan psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, biological basis of behaviour, personality theory and individual differences, abnormal psychology, research design and methods, and psychological therapies. Students will also gain experience of research through a project to be completed within one month of completion of lectures. The focus of the Diploma is theoretical although discussion and practical examples of relevance will be discussed throughout. Graduates will possess a broad, basic understanding of modern psychology following completion of the Diploma. They may use such learning to decide if further studies in psychology would be of interest to them. Alternatively, students may simply complete the Diploma out of interest regarding the manner in which modern psychology aims to investigate and better understand the human mind and behaviour. Professionals in related disciplines such as counselling, etc, may also be eligible to consider completion of the course for CPD (continuing professional development) purposes.

Course structure

Theory: Introduction to various concepts and theories concerning how we may best conceptualise, investigate, and work usefully with people through the study and practice of psychology. Psychology is, in fact, a broad collection of diverse sub-fields of study. This is reflected in the range of topics covered throughout.

Project: Students will also be assessed through a written project to be submitted within one month of cessation of lectures. This written assignment will be a 2,500 word (+/- 200 words) essay detailing either a broad overview of what is meant by the term ‘psychology’, a description of key features of a specific area within psychology, or a review of psychological literature regarding a specific application of psychological theory. Submitted essays will be graded with accompanying feedback. Referencing guidelines will be provided – students will be expected to support their views by referencing a certain amount of published material.

Outline

• Introduction to psychology: History, present day features, and comparison with related professions.
• Social Psychology
• Developmental and lifespan psychology
• Cognitive psychology.
• Personality theory and individual differences.
• Biological basis of behaviour.
• Research design and methods in psychology.
• Abnormal psychology.
• Therapeutic approaches.
• Career options in psychology.