ObjectivesThe course aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of graduates of psychology in specified areas of applied psychology, particularly those related to mental health; to promote and develop the application of knowledge already acquired to those areas of psychology; to prepare students for work in areas of professional psychology in the mental health field; to promote an understanding of how psychological models have been applied to issues relating to physical and mental health; to appreciate and critically evaluate the role of evidence, theory, and research in the practice of professional psychology; to foster an understanding of applications of psychology through the critical use of an integrative approach to problems of health, well being and illness; to develop competencies in research, assessment and evaluation skills.
Entry requirementsEntry Conditions You should have a degree in Psychology which confers eligibility for the Graduate Basis of Registration of the British Psychological Society (or equivalent).
Course descriptionThe course provides an opportunity for students to enhance their skills and knowledge in areas of applied psychology related to mental health. It aims to provide a foundation for students wishing to enter further professional training in Clinical, Counselling or Health Psychology, or to posts in the public or private sector that involve the application of psychology to mental health issues. The first section of the syllabus will provide an opportunity for students to enhance their skills and competencies in areas required by all professional psychologists, including basic professional issues, research methods, and techniques of psychological assessment. The course will go on to provide an in depth discussion of psychological theory and research concerned with the aetiology and development of psychological problems through the life course. Finally, students will be provided with a comprehensive knowledge of some of the major psychological therapies, and will gain some practical experience in their use.
Students will be enrolled in the first instance for the Postgraduate Diploma. Upon successful completion of the eight taught modules in the Diploma, students will be permitted to transfer to the MSc, which will be based on an individual research project in the field of applied psychology related to mental health.
Duration and Mode of Attendance
Full-time: Postgraduate Diploma: one year. (September-June}
MSc: one year (September – September)
Part-time: Postgraduate Diploma: two years (four modules per year).
MSc: two years followed by a dissertation (which usually takes one further year).
The School will endeavour to meet the needs of both full-time and part-time students in arranging the timetable.