Program Overview

Course Overview

The Cognitive Neuroscience of Face Processing course, denoted as PSYC 445, is a comprehensive program that delves into the intricacies of face processing using a cognitive neuroscience approach. This course combines theories and methods from psychology, vision science, and neuroscience to explore the workings of face processing in humans and non-human animals.

Course Details

• Dates: 6 July 2026 to 8 November 2026
• Starts: Trimester 2
• Fees:
  • NZ$1,376.40 for domestic students
  • NZ$5,679.00 for international students
• Lecture Start Times: Friday, 1.10pm
• Campus: Kelburn
• Estimated Workload: Approximately 150 hours or 8.3 hours per week for 18 weeks
• Points: 15
• Availability: Limited entry

Entry Restrictions

• Prerequisites: PSYC 233, PSYC 327
• Corequisites: None
• Restrictions: None

Taught By

The course is taught by the School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Education, Health, and Psychological Sciences.

Course Objectives

Students who pass this course will be able to:

1. Describe major theories, methods, findings, and issues in the study of face perception.
2. Describe the multi-disciplinary approach to the study of face perception.
3. Critically read and discuss theoretical and empirical papers.
4. Develop research questions and design studies to address them.
5. Communicate ideas through discussion, presentation, and written work.

How the Course is Taught

This course requires in-person attendance for the large majority of its activities, including seminars, class discussions, and presentations. There are no recordings or online alternatives for these components.

Assessment

• Reading Responses: 35%
• Presentations: 20%
• Test: 15%
• Critical Essay: 10%
• Research Proposal: 20%

Lecture Times and Rooms

• 6 July 2026 to 16 August 2026
• 31 August 2026 to 11 October 2026

What You'll Need to Get

You do not need to purchase any texts or equipment for this course.

Disclaimer

This course outline may be subject to change.