Psychology Postgraduate Diploma

While the programme structure does allow you the flexibility to choose the best time to study, there are defined module timetables with study patterns – we will advise you of your study pattern when you enrol.

To obtain Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) you must complete all of the core modules listed below.

If you decide you wish to go on and complete the full MSc you will need to complete all of the core modules except the Research Project and instead select one specialised optional module drawn from one of the following broad topic areas such as Cognition, Ergonomics, Health Psychology and Social Psychology. You will then need to complete the Masters Project (triple module, worth 60 credits).

Modules:

Masters

-Biological Bases of Behaviour

Code:7PS500

Info:

The module aims to provide you with a critical understanding of the relationship between brain function and behaviour. You will critically examine the biological bases of a range of behaviours and will consider how research in biological psychology can contribute to the understanding of cognitive function, health and illness. Module content has been developed to meet the requirements of the British Psychological Society (BPS) GBC curriculum as approved by the BPS Membership & Qualifications Board. You’ll be introduced to the following key areas:  1) Biological aspects of behaviour; 2) Psychopharmacology and the brain; 3) Evolutionary, developmental and genetic explanations of behaviour; and 4) From the combined study of these areas, the biological basis of certain psychological abnormalities, as well as issues in human neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to critically discuss key issues in biological psychology; demonstrate a deep and critical understanding of selected psychological phenomena and associated underlying physiological processes; summarise and critically evaluate key research in psychobiology.

Topics covered may include:

-Biological aspects of behaviour, for example, research methods in biological psychology, the biological basis of learning & memory; the neuropsychology of cognitive phenomena.

-Psychopharmacology – for example, drugs and behaviour, addiction and motivation

-Evolution, genetics and behaviour – for example, evolutionary explanations of behaviour, stress & emotion, genes & behaviour, development of the brain

-History and development of Biological Psychology – for example, the impact of physiology and biology in developing our understanding and explaining psychological processes and concepts.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Cognition Behaviour and Performance

Code:7PS501

Info:

Cognition is concerned with the empirical study of mental processes including memory, perception, communication, problem solving and thinking and how these in turn influence human performance in the real world. The purpose of this module is to provide you with a critical understanding of research methods, theory and empirical findings for key topics in Cognitive Psychology and highlight the impact of these on human performance.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to critically discuss and integrate knowledge across several areas of cognitive psychology, demonstrate deep knowledge and understanding of empirical research in cognition; you will also be able to position to task performance in a psychological context.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Individual Differences

Code:7PS502

Info:

This module will provide you with a critical understanding relating to the theoretical knowledge of individual differences, personality and intelligence. It has been developed to meet the requirements of the British Psychological Society (BPS) Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) curriculum, as approved by the BPS Membership & Qualifications Board. Students will critically examine the process of identifying particular traits and characteristics within individuals alongside the application of these in explaining and predicting behaviour.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to critically evaluate psychological theories relevant to individual differences and their ability to explain and predict behaviour; demonstrate a deep and critical understanding of contemporary debates, research and applications of research into individual differences and develop a deep understanding of research planning and design in the psychology of individual differences.

Topics covered may include:

-Approaches to personality, e.g., Traits, cognitive, humanistic and biological

-Psychometric testing, e.g. validity, reliability, ethics and consequences of testing in applied settings

-Theoretical approaches to individual differences, e.g. intelligence, cognitive style, emotion, motivation, mood

-Contemporary debates in individual differences, e.g. idiographic-nomothetic debate

A range of other topics in individual differences, e.g. mental health, gender, culture and ethnicity.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Investigation and Analysis

Code:7PS503

Info:

This module covers research design; ethical practice in research and qualitative and quantitative approaches to research.  You will evaluate research and develop the ability to conduct appropriate analyses to address research questions about human behaviour.  The content of this module is essential preparation for the independent research project that is required to complete the Masters’ programme.

By completing this module you will be able to demonstrate an ability to design and critically evaluate research studies into human behaviour; demonstrate the ability to critically discuss qualitative research and be able to select, perform, interpret and report analyses appropriate to the research question being investigated.

Topics covered may include:

-Philosophical Background to research and investigation.

-Generating and exploring hypotheses and research questions

-Qualitative Approaches – for example: interviews and focus groups, dealing with qualitative data, transcription and analysis, approaches to qualitative methods

-Quantitative Approaches – for example: Assumptions and basics, descriptive stats and exploring your data, testing for effects, testing for differences (t-tests, ANOVA), testing for relationships (e.g., regression and correlation), non-parametric analysis (Chi Square and non-parametric ANOVA).

-Planning and Designing Your Study – for example: experimental design, questionnaire studies, and observational methods

-Presenting and evaluating research findings

-Practical, theoretical and ethical issues associated with researching human behaviour.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Online Induction Module

Code:7PS504

Info:

This provides an introduction to studying online and specifically, to studying psychology online at the University of Derby. This module prepares students for the Psychology course by providing an online environment in which they can become proficient in the skills required for online study.

NB: It does not carry any credits towards your qualification.

We will cover:

-Studying online at the University of Derby: an introduction to the learning environment, time management, navigating the site, submitting assignments, plagiarism

-Skills for online learning: using online communication tools, using online collaborative learning, using interactive learning tools, Second Life induction

-Contacting personal tutors: the university email system

-Accessing resources: using ATHENS, searching for online resources and assessing for academic integrity, using digital resources, an introduction to library and support services for off-campus students (InFocus), finding e-journals, joining SCONUL.

How will I be assessed?
Through the completion of a portfolio (workbook) which is designed to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.

Credits:0

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Research Project (core for Diploma exit)

Code:7PS505

Info:

You can take this module if you intend to finish the course at Diploma stage, and don’t wish to gain the full Masters. This is a two trimester module.

Supported by a ‘supervisor’, you will undertake advanced independent research in an area of your choice. The content of the module is largely defined by the scope and nature of your research question and its investigation. The module team helps students explore and discuss candidate topics prior to final project decisions being made.  You will be asked to:

-formulate meaningful research questions that relate to existing psychological theory and research

-review the relevant literature

-plan and design a feasible and ethical empirical study

-produce a scholarly scientific report of the work.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to effectively use psychological theory and research to design and conduct an ethical empirical study based on contemporary psychological literature; demonstrate a deep and critical understanding of the implications of their empirical research findings and write up your research findings in a way that is consistent with the standards of presentation and clarity expected of a professional research article, within the discipline of Psychology.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

–Social and Developmental Psychology

Code:7PS506

Info:

The module aims to develop your critical understanding of psychological concepts, theories, and methods relevant to the study of social and developmental psychology. It has been developed to meet the requirements of the British Psychological Society (BPS) GBC curriculum, as approved by the BPS Membership & Qualifications Board. The module will explore specific topics that constitute the field of social and developmental psychology including: (a) social cognition, (b) inter-group processes, (c) small group processes, (d) social influence (e) attribution, (f) social development, (g) childhood, adolescence and life-span development (h) attachment (i) cognitive and language development. You will develop a deep understanding of the range of research conducted in developmental psychology, and with applications of social psychological theory to real world scenarios.

On successful completion of the module, you’ll be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of, and critically evaluate, key issues, concepts and theories in developmental psychology to inform; engage in independent enquiry of a specific aspect of developmental psychology and develop a comprehensive understanding of the core social psychological concepts, models and theories underpinning social psychology by critically applying social psychological theories and methods to explain how individuals and/or groups negotiate real life situations.

Topics covered may include:

-Social cognition: Social Perception, Attitudes, Self Regulation

-Inter-group processes:  Inter-group Conflict and Prejudice, Social Identity Processes, Attribution Processes

-Small group processes:  Groups & Group Norms, Small Group Dynamics & Leadership Styles, Characteristics of Productive & non-Productive Groups

-Social influence in groups: Conformity & Obedience, Majority & Minority Influence, Bystander -Effect & Prosocial Behaviour

-Close relationships:  Interpersonal Attraction, Liking & Loving, Role of Culture & Gender

-Crisis in social psychology: Social Constructionism

-Key Themes in Developmental Psychology: Research Methods, Nature & Nurture, Theories of Development

-Cognition in Infancy and Childhood:  Perception, Memory, Language, Theory of Mind, Number, Drawing

-Social Development: Emotion, Self & Identity, Gender

-Classic and Historic perspectives in Developmental Psychology: e.g., Piaget and Vygotsky.

Credits:20

Stage:Masters

Core:Core module

You will need:

60 credits in Psychology at Level 4 or above*

In addition, you will usually need one of the following:

-An undergraduate degree with Honours (in any subject) from a UK university or equivalent overseas qualification – at least a 2:2.

-A Masters degree from a UK university or equivalent overseas qualification

-A psychology degree which hasn’t given you Graduate Basis for Chartership – at least a 2:2.

-An undergraduate degree from an overseas institution that is equivalent to the above UK qualifications. It is also important that you have a good standard of written and spoken English.

*To gain 60 credits in Psychology, you can study our online University Certificate in Psychology, which can be completed in 12 months.

English language qualifications

You’ll also normally require one of the following English language qualifications:

-GCE O level English Language C

-GCSE English C

If English is not your first language you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:

-IELTS 7.0

-TOEFL: 600 (paper based), 250 (computer based) or 100 (internet based)

-Pearson Test of Academic English: 64

-Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Pass

-London Tests of English: we accept level 5 for postgraduate courses

-International GCE O Level English Language: Grade C

-International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: Grade C

-We will consider your reference and personal statement carefully, and we’ll normally invite you to attend a telephone or online interview.

Specialist online university
University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL) specialises in delivering higher education and its objective is to empower students to achieve their full potential through a first class educational experience supported by information, advice and guidance.

University experience enriched with support
UDOL recognises that studying online and at a distance comes with its own challenges and that it’s a very different experience to traditional campus based study. The university´s support services have been designed to ensure that you can make the most of your time at the UDOL; with a wide range of support and information readily accessible.

Student support services include:

– Academic Team and Online Tutor
– Online Learner Advisor
– Student Wellbeing
– IT Service Centre
– eLibrary and Resource Centre
– Study Skills Advisory Scheme
– Skills Diagnostic Self-Assessment Tool
– Careers and Employment Service

Read more below:

Academic Team and Online Tutor
UDOL has a large team of highly qualified academics from around the world, who are experts in their field. They are research active and many of them have a wealth of experience in industry as well as in academia, bringing great value to the programmes. The team also has a high level of expertise in online learning, using best practice techniques combined with online teaching methods to ensure your studies are rich and stimulating.

Online Learner Advisors
Once enrolled onto your course, you will be assigned a dedicated Online Learner Advisor with extensive knowledge of your programme, who will be your main point of contact throughout your course.
To help you succeed in reaching your academic goals, your Online Learner Advisor will maintain regular communication with you, offering advice and guidance for any non-academic issues such as pace of study, fees and funding, authorised breaks from study, dealing with exceptional circumstances, and much more.

Student Wellbeing
Achieving success in your studies is affected as much by your wellbeing as it is by your academic ability. If you are happy and confident within yourself and your environment, then you will be far more able to achieve the success that you deserve.
The Student Wellbeing services offer support for anything that may impact on you, your academic performance or your experience as a student, from budgeting and anxiety to managing serious problems. The counsellors are especially trained in supporting students online, no matter the issue.
For students with disabilities, learning difficulties or long-term or mental health conditions, specialist support is also available. The student wellbeing team will assess your requirements and put Support Plans in place containing reasonable adjustments to the way you are taught or assessed.

IT Service Centre
The IT Service Centre is able to provide assistance if you are experiencing technical difficulties. They are available 24 hours a day so no matter your time zone, IT support is just a call away.

eLibrary and Resource Centre
The University’s library is accessible to online and distance learners. Investment has been made to make sure that your reading lists are in electronic format and that there is a wide range of online databases, digital texts and ejournals available to you.
As a UK based University of Derby student, you can also access other libraries via the SCONUL Access Scheme, which enables materials to be borrowed from higher-education libraries across the country. Many universities, HE colleges and national libraries throughout the UK and Ireland participate in the scheme making their resources widely available.
The library runs a comprehensive schedule of Support Sessions covering a wide range of topics. These live, one hourly webinars cover topics such as study skills, using the virtual library enquiry desk and dealing with assessment anxiety.

Study Skills Advisory Scheme
Developing your study skills is an integral part of studying. It is particularly important if you are returning to study after a long break and lack confidence in this area.
There is a wide range of resources including guides, audio-visual tutorials and live webinars covering:

– Writing essays and reports
– Writing a dissertation or Independent Studies
– Citing and referencing
– Reading and note taking
– Research skills
– Time management and coping with pressure
– Reflection and personal development planning
– And much more…

Skills Diagnostic Self-Assessment tool
To ensure you have the skills needed for online and academic study, our unique study skills diagnostic tool gives you the opportunity, at any point of your studies, to identify the skills that you are strong at and those which you may need additional help with. The tool will direct you to information and assisted support according to your needs.

Careers and Employment Service
Whether you’re just starting your career or are on a well-established pathway, the Careers and Employment Service has lots to offers. Live webinars, career coaching, CV tailoring and online resources are just some of the services that are freely available to help you develop your employability skills and to plan your next career move. The Careers and Employment service is equipped to help you explore what you will need to do to enhance your career and support you in applying for roles.
As an Alumnus of the University, you will have access to the Careers and Employment Centre for up to 3 years after graduation. You can access the service online, over Skype/ Hangout, on the phone, through e-mail or in person at our Derby campus.

Find out more about the careers and employment centre

– Step 1- Start your online application.

It’s free to apply and you have 28 days to complete your application so don’t worry if you don’t have everything to hand right now.

– Step 2 – Submit your online application.

Provide as much detail as you can and we will send you an email acknowledging receipt of your application.

Please, attach the following documents to your online application:

– Photo ID – this could be your passport or driving licence

– Written reference supplied on headed paper from either a manager, supervisor, tutor or teacher

– Copies of certificates or letter of testimony for previous qualifications

Don’t worry if you can’t attach your documents right away.  Simply write your name and unique application id onto them, email, fax or post them to us after you’ve submitted your completed application.

– Step 3 – Wait for a response.

Our Online Learning Advisors will review your application and contact you within 1 working week. If your application is successful, we will make you an ‘unconditional’ offer. If we still need some additional information from you (eg evidence of your qualifications and experience including certificates and references) we may make you a conditional offer. If your application is unsuccessful on this occasion, we will email you to let you know.

– Step 4 – Time to enrol

We’ll ask you to enrol onto your course about 4 – 6 weeks before the start of term.  For example, if you apply to start your course in September enrolment will open approximately mid-August.

– Step 5 – … and pay

Contact us for more details about payments and notes for sponsors.

– Need Help?

If you have any questions during your application, don’t hesitate to contact your friendly Online Learning Advisors for assistance.