FdSc Psychology

Year 1

Core modules

• Introduction to Biological Psychology (STRO1121)

  This module is designed to provide an introduction to biological psychology. It introduces the key concepts and methodologies used and provides historical context for the approach. Topics covered include brain structure and organisation, the nature nurture perspective and pharmacology.

• Cognitive Psychology and Psychology as a Science (STRO1122)

  The first part of this module introduces students to why psychology is a science and the challenges psychology faces in this field. Students are then introduced to the application of science to understand how we think – the cognitive approach. Here the module covers core areas of cognitive psychology and the methodologies used within this approach. 

• Developmental Psychology and Learning Psychology (STRO1123)

  This module introduces students to the major themes and theoretical approaches in developmental psychology. The module also introduces the basic concepts of learning and how these shape peoples’ lives and experiences.

• Social Psychology and Classic Studies (STRO1124)

  This module introduces students to the core topics in Social Psychology and to key psychological studies in human behaviour. The Social Psychology aspect develops students understanding of the social behaviour of individuals in terms of both internal characteristics of the person (e.g. cognitive mental processes) and external influences (the social environment).

• Individual Differences and Clinical Psychology (STRO1125)

  The module examines theories of individual differences related to personality and intelligence. Students learn about instruments for measuring personality and ability and how these are constructed and used. Students are introduced to psychological disorders- characteristics, explanation and treatment. The module will look at resilience and how students can use new research and understanding to develop their resilience. 

• Research Methods 1 (STRO1126)

  This module is designed to provide an introduction to research methods in psychology. Basic aspects of experimental design and non-experimental research methods are covered as well as an introduction to the use of computer based statistical analysis. This module also provides guidance on writing research reports.

Final year

Core modules

• Contemporary Topics in Biopsychology (STRO2121)

  This module enables students to extend material covered in year one and develop a greater understanding by encouraging a critical awareness of biopsychology and neuroscience and applying the research material to contemporary issues and debates.

• Contemporary Topics in Cognitive Psychology (STRO2122)

  This module enables students to extend material covered in year one and develop a greater understanding by encouraging a critical awareness of cognitive psychology and applying the research material to contemporary issues and debates

• Contemporary Topics in Developmental Psychology (STRO2123)

  This module will build on the knowledge acquired in the Level 4 module Developmental Psychology and the Psychology of Learning. Students will deepen their understanding of the theories and methods used in developmental psychology and the psychology of learning and apply it to a range of contemporary issues.

• Social Psychology and Health Psychology (STRO2124)

  This module develops students’ knowledge and understanding of social psychology, exploring social processes involved in group and individual behaviour. Students will be introduced to health psychology and learn how knowledge of social aspects of behaviour can be used to bring about healthy change. Students will be introduced to the mind-body connection and consider the topic of stress in depth.

• Clinical Psychology and Positive Psychology (STRO2125)

  Historically Psychology focused on understanding and treating disorders with little attention to human flourishing. This module addresses this imbalance; the clinical element builds on level 4, exploring psychological disorders in more depth. Students are then introduced to positive psychology; here they will have the opportunity to apply theories of wellbeing and optimal functioning to their own lives.

• Research Methods 2 (STRO2126)

  This module is designed to consolidate and extend competence in research design by using qualitative techniques and quantitative statistical analysis techniques.