Psychology

Overview

The Psychology program at Bishop Grosseteste University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact. The program covers a range of topics, including research methods, statistics, and the application of psychological knowledge to real-world problems.

Course Structure

The program is structured into three years, with each year building on the previous one to provide a progressive learning experience.

Year 1

• Researching Psychology I: This module introduces students to core areas and methods integral to the discipline and study of psychology.
• Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: This module provides an understanding of developmental psychology across the lifespan, exploring physical development, cognitive development, social and emotional development throughout childhood and later into maturity.
• Psychology in the Arts and Communities: This module actively introduces students to the role of psychology in understanding the arts and the therapeutic benefits of engagement in both formal and everyday practice.
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): This module will immerse students in the origins of psychology, with respect to early understandings of what psychology is, as well as the development and establishment of Psychology as a discipline in its own right.
• Psychology Group Project: This module offers students the opportunity to engage with real research projects, under the support of an academic supervisor and by working in a small group.

Year 2

• Personality and Individual Differences: This module covers the history, cornerstone theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches of personality research.
• Psychology Placement: This module provides students with an experience of work in the form of a placement in a community-based setting.
• Social Psychology: This module will develop students' knowledge and understanding of social psychology, one of the core areas of psychology introduced in Researching Psychology I.
• Researching Psychology II: This module will build and extend on core methods and statistical techniques acquired at level 4 in Researching Psychology I.
• Evolutionary Psychology: In this module, students will be introduced to the main themes in Evolutionary Psychology such as Sex and Mating; Parenting and Kinship; Group Living, and Life History Theory.

Year 3

• Psychology Dissertation: The Dissertation requires students to work independently in producing a substantial piece of research that demonstrates mastery of academic knowledge and research skills commensurate with Level 6.
• Advances in Clinical Psychology: This module is an extension of the Level 4 module, Foundations in Clinical Psychology, and aims to equip students with a critical knowledge of the clinical psychology literature, as well as techniques relevant to working with specific clients.
• BioPsychology: This module focuses upon the BPS Core domain Biopsychology, covering aspects of the biological basis of behaviours, emotions and mental health.
• Cognitive Psychology: This module develops knowledge and understanding of the BPS core domain of Cognitive Psychology which students will have been introduced to at level 4 in Researching Psychology I.
• Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: The module provides an opportunity for students to build upon and apply the key intellectual, transferable and practical skills gained at Levels 4 and 5 of the programme in order to design an appropriate research project for their Psychology dissertation.

Optional Modules

• Health Psychology in Action: This Level 5 module will enable students to develop their communication skills through developing resources for public engagement with Psychological research and theory around behaviour change.
• Advanced Statistics: This module will develop students' knowledge and understanding of statistical methods used in psychological research.
• Consciousness: This module provides a critical overview of the broad nature, states, theories and approaches to studying consciousness.
• Psychology in Organisations: Occupational psychology focuses on aspects of human functioning in work environments.

Entry Requirements

• Students will normally need 96-112 UCAS tariff points (from a maximum of four Advanced Level qualifications).
• Students will also need GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (previously C) or above (or equivalent).

Assessment

• Assessments in Psychology take place at the end of each module in order for students to demonstrate their understanding of the objectives covered.
• A wide range of assessment methods is used to support student learning, including portfolios, presentations, displays and examinations and laboratory projects.

Careers & Further Study

• In Psychology, students will develop the knowledge and skills which will make them attractive to an employer.
• Psychology graduates go on to work in a range of sectors including teaching, education or training, local government, health and social work and in areas of industry including human resources management.

Support

• Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience.
• Staff and students work together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere as part of an intimate campus community.

Fees & Funding

• A lot of student finance information is available from numerous sources, but it is sometimes confusing and contradictory.
• At BGU, staff try to give students all the information and support they can to help throughout the process.
• The Student Advice team are experts in helping students sort out the funding arrangements for their studies, offering a range of services to guide students through all aspects of student finance step by step.

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact.
• Understand the theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior.
• Enhance employability skills through specialist modules, placement, and volunteering opportunities.

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Program Description:

• Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• Focuses on core psychological domains and methods.
• Explores contemporary issues such as mindfulness, psychopathy, and the science of dreaming.
• Engages students in a range of learning methods in small groups, fostering personalized feedback and interaction with tutors.
• Blends classic psychological theories and research with the study of social issues and broader theoretical frameworks.
• Provides a strong foundation in research-informed teaching and research-active staff, offering a scientific training and in-depth understanding of the subject.
• Emphasizes the application of knowledge and theory to real-life situations.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Core areas of psychology, including research methods, statistics, lifespan development, psychology in the arts and communities, conceptual and historical issues in psychology, applied psychology, clinical psychology, health psychology, personality and individual differences, social psychology, evolutionary psychology, biopsychology, cognitive psychology, consciousness, and research project design.
• Specialist modules in areas such as mindfulness, psychopathy, and the science of dreaming.

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Structure:

• 3 years full-time program.
• Small group sizes to promote personalized feedback and interaction with tutors.
• Research-informed teaching delivered by research-active staff.
• Emphasis on real-world application of knowledge and theory.

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Course Schedule:

• Year 1: Researching Psychology I, Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan, Psychology in the Arts and Communities, Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP), Psychology Group Project.
• Year 2: Introduction to Applied Psychology, Foundations of Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology in Action, Personality and Individual Differences, Psychology Placement.
• Variety of assessment methods used, including portfolios, presentations, displays, examinations, laboratory projects, and coursework.
• Assessments designed to develop and refine specific skills relevant to a psychologist's career, such as practical counseling skills, critical thinking, and analysis.

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Teaching:

• Diverse teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical workshops, coursework, and work-based placements.
• Small group seminars and workshops provide opportunities to review issues raised in lectures and engage in independent study.
• Emphasis on student participation and interactivity.

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Faculty:

• Team of experienced and qualified academics with expertise in diverse areas of psychology.

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Careers:

• Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors, including teaching, education, training, local government, health and social work, human resources management, clinical settings, counseling, mental health services, education, and research.

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Other:

• The program emphasizes close support and contact with tutors, fostering a personalized learning experience.
• The program includes opportunities to participate in arts-based activities and community engagement, enhancing personal reflection and learning.
• The program offers a student-centered experience with a friendly and supportive atmosphere within a close-knit campus community.

Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary

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Overview:

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.

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Services Offered:

BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

BGU boasts strong academic support, ranking first in the National Student Survey 2024 for this category.

Student Advice & Wellbeing:

The university offers dedicated support services for student well-being, including counseling and guidance.

Library:

BGU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.

IT Services:

Students have access to various IT resources and support.

Accommodation:

BGU provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

Careers:

The university offers career guidance and support to help students find employment after graduation.

Alumni Network:

BGU has a strong alumni network that provides support and networking opportunities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Student Satisfaction:

BGU consistently ranks high in student satisfaction surveys, indicating a positive learning environment and supportive community.

Strong Academic Support:

The university provides excellent academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.

Focus on Teacher Training:

BGU is a leading provider of teacher training programs, offering various routes into teaching.

Vibrant Campus Life:

BGU offers a lively campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement.

Location in Lincoln:

The university is situated in a historic and charming city with plenty to offer students.

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Academic Programs:

BGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Courses:

BGU offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in various fields, including education, business, humanities, and social sciences.

Postgraduate Courses:

The university offers postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and doctoral studies, with a strong focus on teacher training and education-related fields.

Apprenticeships:

BGU offers degree apprenticeships in various fields, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning a degree.

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Other: