Psychology University Certificate

To successfully complete the University Certificate in Psychology you must pass 60 credits, by completing 3 x 20 credit modules.

Additionally, you will complete our Freshers’ module which does not carry any credits but is a valuable addition to the other optional modules that make up the certificate.  This skills module will give you an introduction to the psychology department, university systems, online learning and studying psychology in higher education.  Please note that there is no charge for the Freshers’ Module.

To achieve 60 credits, you will complete three of the 20 credit optional modules from the list below.  If your first degree did not include any research methods training, you will be encouraged to select the Research Methods in Psychology module as one of your options.

The order of the modules you can select follows a study pattern which is determined by your start date (i.e. whether you start in September, February or May).  Advice and counselling on module choices is available from the programme leader at application and enrolment stages.

Modules:

Stage 1

-Freshers’ Module

Code:4PS506

Info:

This module has been designed to provide you with an introduction to studying online and the Psychology department within the University of Derby. It will provide you with an online environment in which you can become proficient in the skills required for online study. This is a core, no credit, free of charge, stand alone module to enhance your student experience.

On completion of this module you will be able to:

-understand the requirements to successfully engage with online educational materials

-demonstrate knowledge of, and ability to use discussion boards and other communication tools to support learning

-demonstrate competency in accessing resources to support your learning outside of the written course materials.

Topics covered may include:

-Studying online at the University of Derby – introduction to the online environment, time management, navigation of the site, submitting assignments and plagiarism

-Skills for online learning – using online communication tools, online collaborative learning, using interactive learning tools

-Accessing resources – using ATHENS (database), searching for online resources and assessing for academic integrity, using digital resources, Infocus, accessing e-journals, joining SCONUL.

Credits:0

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Core module

–Introduction to Biological Psychology

Code:4PS507

Info:

Following a comprehensive introduction to the brain, neural structures and neurons, we will investigate the history of biological psychology and consider key questions, such as whether parts of our brains serve specialised functions and if there are individual differences in brain structure, associated with handedness for example.  We will also investigate how our understanding of brain function informs our understanding of selected areas of cognition and behaviour.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-Demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between physiological systems and behaviour

-Demonstrate an awareness of the underlying principles of biological psychology/neuroscience.

Topics covered may include:

-What is biological psychology?

-The nervous system, neurons and neuronal conduction

-Neurotransmission

-Neurotransmitters and behaviour

-Neuropsychology

-Recording neural activity

-Conceptual and historical issues in biological psychology

-Biological Psychology and everyday life.

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

–Introduction to Cognitive Psychology

Code:4PS508

Info:

You will be introduced to cognitive psychology as a science, providing you with a sound understanding of research into human cognition including areas such as perception, attention, language, memory and thinking. You will also explore everyday applications of cognitive research and develop an understanding of debates in cognitive psychology.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-demonstrate an understanding of theory and research into human cognition;

-demonstrate the ability to communicate an academic argument in a clear and concise manner

-show an understanding of the debates surrounding key research areas in cognitive psychology.

Topics covered may include:

-What makes cognitive psychology a science?

-Theories, research methods and debates relating to core topics of human cognition

-Topic areas which are considered include: perception, attention, memory, thinking, language, applications of Cognitive Psychology.

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

–Introduction to Developmental Psychology

Code:4PS509

Info:

The module aims to develop students’ critical understanding of psychological concepts, theories, and methods relevant to the study of child development. You will be introduced to methods, debates and theories of development. These themes will be related to topics in cognitive and social development. The module will provide you with an understanding of the range of research conducted in developmental psychology.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-demonstrate an understanding of concepts, theories and methods in developmental psychology

-demonstrate an ability to describe and discuss key issues in developmental psychology.

Topics covered may include:

-Understanding of concepts and theories in developmental psychology

-Understanding of the key issues in developmental psychology

-Understanding of research methods related to developmental psychology

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

–Introduction to Social Psychology

Code:4PS510

Info:

In this module, you will be introduced to some of the key concepts included in the study of Social Psychology. You will explore a range of basic social psychological theories that have been developed to explain our engagement with others such as how attitudes develop; how aggressive or altruistic behaviour can be explained; and how our identities influence the ways we view, and are viewed by others. You will be required to apply these conceptual issues to examples taken from everyday life.

On completion of this module, you will be able to:

-demonstrate an understanding of a range of social psychological theories

-demonstrate an understanding of the methodologies and methods used in social psychology.

Topics covered may include:

-Introduction to Social Psychology

-Research methods in Social Psychology

-People in groups

-Social Psychology and Cognition

-Pro-social behaviour

-Cultural context of Social Psychology.

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

–Psychology: Traditions and Skills

Code:4PS511

Info:

This module aims to develop your academic understanding of the discipline of psychology from a historical perspective in order to instil an appreciation of the development of psychological traditions that underpin modern psychology training and practice. It will provide you with a structured opportunity to develop the range of skills you need to successfully engage in your programme of study.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-Demonstrate an understanding of the development of psychology as a discipline

-Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a group to communicate psychological knowledge

-Demonstrate competences in a range of study skills and learning strategies appropriate to the discipline of psychology.

Topics covered may include:

-Origins of psychology and the historical development of the discipline

-Different perspectives within psychology and their links to theoretical positions and methodological approaches

-Distinctions between academic and professional areas of psychology

-General and discipline specific study skills

-Locating, reading and reviewing psychological literature

-Planning and managing academic work

-Individual and group approaches to learning

-Discipline specific academic writing styles

-Alternative dissemination strategies, including oral presentations.

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

–Research Methods and Analysis in Psychology

Code:4PS512

Info:

This module will introduce you to the key principles underlying research methods in psychology. You will be taught the need of systematic research methods and will explore the relationship between theory and data in both quantitative and qualitative research. You will learn key principles in research design and will engage in the practical aspects of generating quantitative and qualitative data and how to report the findings of simple psychological studies in a standardised format. In addition, you will engage with Personal Development Planning (PDP) to identify your personal development needs and opportunities for addressing these needs within the module and across your student journey in general.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and principles of psychological research and design.

-demonstrate the ability to report simple psychological studies

-demonstrate the ability to analyse and interpret qualitative and quantitative psychological data

-identify and access appropriate opportunities to meet your own established personal developmental needs.

Topics covered may include:

-Research design and ethical considerations

-Measurement

-Descriptive statistics

-Inferential testing

-Conducting qualitative research

-Developing quantitative research proposals

-Presenting research and research findings.

Credits:20

Stage:Stage 1

Core:Optional module

By completing this course, you have the choice to progress to our BSc (Hons) Psychology or ourPsychology Postgraduate Diploma / MSc Psychology course. The entry criteria varies depending on your preferred career path.

Option 1: Entry criteria to complete the University Certificate in Psychology and progress to the BSc (Hons) Psychology:

If you meet the entry criteria below and successfully achieve the University Certificate in Psychology you can progress on to our BSc (Hons) Psychology. The credits you have gained will count towards your first year of study.

You will need:

-A levels (260 UCAS points – excluding General Studies) or equivalent qualifications, such as a -BTEC National Diploma, Scottish Highers etc. Where students don’t have these formal qualifications, we will also consider relevant work and life experience

-GCSE Maths (minimum grade C) (or equivalent)

-GCSE English Language (minimum grade C) (or equivalent)

-We also accept Access qualifications (with a grade of 22 merits or distinction).

-Additionally, we can consider all the information that you’ve included in your application. We want to see that you’re enthusiastic and motivated to take this course and that you have the potential to benefit from studying this course through online learning.

You can RPL up to 60 credits of the UCP towards the BSc, giving you exemptions from three modules.

Option 2: Entry criteria for University Certificate in Psychology to progress to our Postgraduate Diploma/MSc Psychology

If you are studying this course to progress onto the PG Dip/MSc Psychology course, you will need to meet the entry criteria below:

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

-A Master’s degree from a UK university, or equivalent overseas qualification

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

English language qualifications

For both options 1 and 2, if English is not your first language you will need one of the following English Language qualifications to gain entry onto the University Certificate in Psychology.

-IELTS 6.0

-TOEFL 550 (paper based) 213 (computer based) or 80 (internet based)

-Pearson Test of Academic English: 51

-Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Pass

-London Tests of English: we accept a Level 4 for undergraduate courses

-International GCE 0 Level English Language: Grade C

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

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.