Psychology BSc (Hons)

Understanding the process of acquiring new knowledge is fundamental to psychology, especially when we want to investigate human and non-human behaviour. This module will introduce you to the core skills that are essential for scientifically addressing questions relating to areas of psychology through various research methods and processes. You will learn about and study different areas of research such as study design, ethical issues, quantitative and qualitative analyses and interpretation of data. 

This module introduces aspects of individual differences and social psychology from the British Psychological Society to allow students to understand some of the possible reasons for differences in human behaviour across different situations. As such it compliments the research module that runs alongside it in explaining some of the results found, and what needs to be taken into consideration when designing research and trying to explain behaviour. There are also a range of core skills delivered in this module to enable their success across the course.

This module introduces psychological wellbeing by exploring the interconnectedness of physical and psychological health. We'll focus on Psychopathology to examine the causes and vulnerabilities for mental illness, alongside Health psychology to see how habits and coping mechanisms impact physical health. Using various models and drawing on scientific research, we'll also analyse the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in shaping wellbeing, as well as barriers and facilitators of behaviour change.

This core module is an introduction to the BPS / QAA curriculum for biological psychology, developmental psychology, and cognitive psychology. For example, in biological psychology students will explore the biological bases of human and non-human behaviour, brain structure and function, comparative and evolutionary psychology. In cognitive psychology students will explore perception, attention, memory, learning, and language. Finally, in developmental psychology, students will explore prenatal, attachment, culture, language (acquisition), risk and resilience.

This module will focus on exploring the contemporary issues in the new exciting field of cyberpsychology. We will explore how technology can affect human behaviour, thought processes, emotions, and social interactions. We will cover topics such as the use of digital technologies for older adults and young children, sports, health and forensic cyberpsychology, love and relationships online, gaming and virtual reality and online consumer behaviour.

This module gives students the opportunity to learn about how psychology has been used to make a difference in the real world. It will examine a broad range of psychology topics, using a range of theories and empirical research in applied psychology. It considers the knowledge and principles applied to a range of real life contexts, exploring how applied psychology is used in a range of professional practices and domains. This module will allow students to explore a range of various areas and its underpinnings in research. Topics may vary each year, and the above should only be used as an indication of topics taught. This module provides you with a structured opportunity for professional development. Alongside taught lectures this module enables you to engage with content through interactive workshops which enhances personal professional development and skills.

The module introduces key psychological theories and approaches which have informed our understanding of crime and criminality. We also focus on specific crimes from a psychological perspective, and other aspects of criminality. Throughout the module, we will be considering the applications of forensic psychology in real world settings

Chinese: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE in Chinese or equivalent. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

French: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed A-Level or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

French: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

German: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module enables students with A-Level German or equivalent to further develop their grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

Spanish: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed a A-Level or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

Spanish: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed GCSE or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

Subsidiary Language for Beginners (20 Credits) Option

This module provides the opportunity to study a new language from scratch and introduces you to basic grammar, vocabulary and cultural contexts. You will apply the language to practical situations using both oral and written skills. 

This Research Methods module will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the principles of research in psychology in alignment with the British Psychological Society (BPS) standards. The module focuses on helping students develop and enhance their research techniques developed in level 4, continuing to develop a critical understanding of diverse research methods, enabling you to select the right approach/es for different psychological research questions.

From designing experiments to working with or designing psychometric tests, you’ll learn how to generate hypotheses, collect data, and apply statistical tests with confidence. Additionally, you’ll also learn how to present research findings effectively in written BPS reports through to visual formats. The module emphasises the application of research methods to psychological issues, equipping students to design meaningful studies and evaluate data.

This module builds on the first year PS4024 module to cover the remaining aspects of the British Psychological Society's Social Psychology and Individual Differences curriculum, with a focus on the real world implications of what students have learnt. We will explore a range of issues in society around issues such as power, politics and community that help us understand why people act as they do and how society can influence this. Students will choose to explore one of these issues in depth for their assessment.

This module focuses on the theories that inform psychological therapy and gain an understanding of how these techniques are used within therapy.

This module will examine theoretical and empirical psychological research and use real-world applications to understand the impact of parenting and education on the development of children at different life-stages. We will discuss the nature of good and poor parenting and education, alongside potential reasons for these. We will explore the strengths and weaknesses of the literature in these areas and consider how other factors can have an impact on the quality of parenting and education.

This Health Inequalities module explores the complex factors contributing to unequal health outcomes within society, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address these disparities. Students will analyse various determinants of health inequalities, such as socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental factors as examples, while developing a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between mental and physical health.

The module also emphasizes the evaluation and application of integrated care approaches, focusing on diverse populations and underserved groups. Additionally, students will gain essential insights into the structure and frameworks of healthcare systems, exploring how they shape the delivery of care. Thus preparing them with essential foundation for working in a wide range of health or clinically related roles.

This module will apply psychological theory and knowledge to contemporary topics in developmental psychology. This module will introduce students to a range of topics, methodologies, and perspectives. Examples of typical content covered include understanding the impact of media consumption and advertising on children's development and world perspectives, exploring research and practice in the area of trauma, resilience and adverse childhood experiences. The module will reflect on current issues and be responsive to new research, practice and emerging areas within developmental psychology. The module aims to develop student's knowledge base, employability skills and real world readiness through an exploration of topics such as safeguarding of children, young people and adults.

This module has two distinct themes. Theme one is to develop awareness and skills in understanding the psychology behind job searching, job applications, writing a persuasive CV, performing appropriately at interview and using social media to search for, and apply for jobs. Theme two helps students to apply psychology in real life situations in a discipline of interest chosen by the student. Students will work in groups and use psychological theory to solve specific problems either provided by partners within the community, working with partners in the community or provided in-house by staff. This is an experiential learning module where more than half of the content is delivered using practical exercises. Students will have an opportunity to take a self-directed approach to building essential skills.

In this module you will be exploring the ways in which psychology is used in the support of criminal investigations and the wider criminal justice system. The ways in which the police carry out their investigations is explored and key areas of offender and geographical profiling are covered in depth, leading to a focus on investigative psychology. You also use case materials in order to develop your own offender profile with full training on this process given.

Choose one of the following:

1. Professional Placement (40 Credits) Optional
2. Term abroad (40 Credits) Optional
3. One of the following Language options

Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts. 

Developing Intercultural Literacy and Cross-Cultural Skills (40 Credits) Optional

• The multiple facets of global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Culture shock
• Cultural adjustment
• Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
• Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
• Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Experiential Overseas Learning (40 Credits) Optional

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

• The multiple facets of Global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Theories, models and strategies of learning

Theories and models Intercultural competence

• Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
• Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
• Experiential learning models
• Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

• Enhanced independence
• Improved command of multicultural behaviour
• Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development
• Team building and team work

Part B: Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 

Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country. 

Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country. 

Or you can choose ONE of the following:

• University Placement Year Optional
• Subject Placement Year Optional
• International University Placement Year Optional

Preparation for the year abroad will take place in Chester during level 5 and will include:

• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Host-country orientation, study methods– economic, political and social reality of the country
• Orientation specific to exchange – health, education, gender issues
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world

Theories, models and strategies of learning

• Critical thinking skills, experiential learning and models of reflection

Personal and placement-related transversal skills

• Effective self-motivation and independent resourcefulness
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development

Whilst abroad:

You will undertake study at one of the University of Chester's partner universities or undertake and approved work placement or virtual placement. If you are a student,  it is expected that you will choose a series of modules at the university abroad which must be agreed by the host institution and the Module Leader. you must supply details of you modules on a learning agreement within 4 weeks of arrival at the host university.

Students design and carry out a piece of empirical research with the support of a named supervisor. This offers an opportunity to apply psychological theories and methods covered in the first two years of their degree to a specific area of Psychology. Students plan their project, apply for ethical approval, undertake data analysis, and prepare a final report.

Psychopathology aims to promote students understanding of psychological disorder, how it develops and is maintained, and to help you to think about how, as psychologists, we might best intervene to promote psychological wellbeing.  This module explores research, practice, and service user perspectives on psychopathology throughout the lifespan, providing students with a robust understanding of current thinking and approaches in the field of clinical and counselling psychology.

This module further develops your knowledge and understanding of three important core areas of the British Psychological Society (BPS) curriculum. In Biological Psychology, we will cover biologically-based explanations of behaviour. In Cognitive Psychology we examine mental processes. In Developmental Psychology, we study how people change across the lifespan. Across all topics, we explore how the topics that we cover can be applied to wider world issues. 

This module will look at key areas of Health Psychology, in particular looking at the areas of behaviour change and patient experience. This will allow students to build on what they have learnt so far in their degree and see this applied to issues within the physical health field. The module will prepare students for careers in physical health support or related areas around behaviour change such as marketing.

Neurodiversity in Practice covers a range of topics which affect children's development: these include a broad spectrum of neurodiversity issues, but may also include the experiences of children raised in unusual circumstances, who have a sensory or physical disability, a mental health condition, or who are unusually gifted or talented, for example.

In Neuropsychology we will cover a wide range of topics exploring various, exciting new insights into how we study the brain. You will learn about the applications of neuropsychology in real - world settings and critically examine brain - based explanations of behaviour. If you are interested in working in this area, advice and guidance about career pathways in the area of neuropsychology will be provided too.

This module will focus on human behaviour related to organisations, work and productivity from a practical perspective. Topics covered will support students in exploring a breadth of knowledge within Organisational Psychology set out by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Topics may include job analysis, recruitment and selection, employee motivation and development, ergonomics, occupational stress, leadership and teams, and organisational culture. This module also gives students the opportunity to apply knowledge gained through group work, case studies, authentic assessments and engaging with external organisations.

Psychology isn't just about studying the mind and behaviour of humans but of other animals too. In Animal Psychology, we look at cutting-edge research in exciting areas including cognition, communication, self-recognition, personality and social behaviour. You will learn about the causal, developmental, functional and evolutionary perspectives of behaviour as well as the methods used in comparative psychology, and will gain first-hand experience of observation methods during a field trip.