Psychology with Counselling BSc (Hons)

30.00 credits

This module is a core requirement for students taking psychology in level 4. The module will introduce you to key strategies which are used in psychological research, including designing an experiment, hypothesis testing, and statistical analysis. The main features of the module will involve the acquisition of practical skills in psychological research, learning how to apply and carry out statistical tests using SPSS, and how to report research findings.

Throughout the module you will learn how to design a research project, analyse data and report a psychological experiment.

30 credits

This module introduces you to the fascinating theories and ideas of psychological science across core research areas.

It provides a broad foundation of knowledge, encompassing both these core areas and many specialised sub-areas, including biological psychology, learning, sensory and perceptual processes, memory, thought and knowledge, language, social psychology, developmental psychology, neuropsychology, individual differences, and clinical psychology. 

30 credits

This module will equip you with the essential skills for studying psychology, including reflective thinking, critical evaluation and effective collaboration.

We will look beyond traditional Eurocentric frameworks to explore diverse ways of constructing and sharing knowledge, gaining insight into indigenous and Eastern psychological traditions.

The module will examine key conceptual and historical paradigms, as well as major philosophical debates that have shaped psychology as a science. You will also study the impact of colonialism on psychological research and theory, providing a broader understanding of the field. 

30 credits

This module explores the practical applications of psychology in real-world contexts, highlighting how psychological principles address modern social, occupational, and health challenges.

You will explore key theoretical frameworks, applied methods, and real-world case studies that showcase psychology in action. Topics include Health Psychology, Educational Psychology, Sports Psychology, and interventions in workplace and community settings.

The module emphasises the role of research in shaping practice and explores the ethical considerations involved.

30 credits

This module covers major topics within the field of cognitive psychology and examines the relationship between brain function and our understanding of cognition and behaviour. You will be introduced to key theoretical explanations proposed to account for human cognition, alongside some real-life applications of cognitive psychology. You will study the structure and function of the nervous system before examining the contribution of specialised brain structures to cognitive functions such as perception, attention, language, memory and decision making, and behaviours such as motivation, eating, emotion and sleep. You will also learn about the effect of hormones, drugs and neurological dysfunction on cognition and behaviour.

30 credits

This module offers a comprehensive insight into counselling and psychotherapy, presenting key concepts, theories and methodologies that constitute the bedrock of therapeutic practice. You will develop the core practical skills necessary for effective counselling (e.g. active listening, empathy and nonverbal communication). You will explore real-life case studies and how theoretical concepts are applied in practical scenarios, fostering an understanding of how diverse approaches can be effectively employed.

This module also underscores the importance of self-awareness and reflective practice for therapists, addresses legal and ethical complexities, and culminates with discussions about ongoing professional development and emerging trends in the ever-evolving field of counselling and psychotherapy.

30.00 credits

The module covers a broad range of key theories and empirical research in social and developmental psychology. You will study current theory and practice in psychology across range of topics that focuses on the person in psychology. We will explore the importance of culture, ethics, the scientific approach and the notion of measurement.

30.00 credits

This module builds on the introduction to research methods and inferential statistics offered in PS4001 Research Methods 1. It will cover more advanced research designs — involving multiple independent variables — and more advanced inferential statistics such as analysis of variance, regression analysis and factor analysis. It will also introduce students to qualitative research methods and data analysis. Students will learn to develop and implement multifactorial experimental designs through practical research exercises and a project. Students' scientific writing skills will be further developed on the basis of a series of lab reports.

30.00 credits

This module provides the opportunity to study and employ different methodologies in psychology by evaluating the strengths and limitations of different research designs. Students will execute an empirical research project on a topic agreed in consultation with a Psychology staff supervisor. Supervisory sessions with an academic supervisor will guide students to conduct a literature review, formulate a research question, design a research study, and consider research ethics relating to their study, culminating in data collection and writing up of a research report which satisfies APA guidelines.

30 credits

This practical module examines students' personal growth and therapeutic techniques in counselling and psychotherapy. The module underscores the importance of a counsellor's self-awareness, self-care, continuous learning and emotional well-being in nurturing successful therapeutic outcomes using a client/user-centred approach. Through practical sessions and group-based work, students will explore the role of personal values, biases, and triggers in shaping counsellor-client interactions and relationships. Ethical frameworks and professional guidelines are at the centre of all practical work, with emphasis on the necessity of maintaining confidentiality and practising within one's competencies. Cultural competence is also spotlighted, urging students to navigate diverse clients with cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness.

30 credits

This module explores the intricate relationship between mental health issues and the practice of counselling and psychotherapy across the lifespan. Students will learn about various facets of mental health disorders, encompassing their assessment, treatment, and the strategic therapeutic techniques employed to aid individuals confronting psychological challenges. Therapeutic methods are introduced, with specific focus on the person-centred approach and integrative counselling. Tailored counselling strategies for distinct disorders are outlined through illuminating case studies. Students will also discover current trends and research in the field, enabling them to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements and apply holistic and empathetic care within the domain of counselling and psychotherapy.

15 credits

This module examines contemporary perspectives on personality and individual differences, including theories of personality and intelligence, and the measurement of individual differences You will explore the concepts of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and discuss how psychologists can actively promote practices which embrace and value diversity and inclusion. You will review the practice of assessing individual differences in clinical, educational, and organisational contexts, considering ethical issues and the promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion in these contexts.

15 credits

This module provides you with a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes. At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile and determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. You will be supported in this process by a dedicated career coach, who will help you to explore a range of options including self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional Graduate level opportunities. Students will also be given opportunities to engage with external mentors throughout the module to support reflection and to develop a professional network.

You will then undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements.  You will also be able to reflect on activities that you undertake outside the university through which you are developing your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.