Psychology and Education Studies

Program Overview

Psychology and Education Studies

Overview

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Education Studies program at Bishop Grosseteste University is a three-year full-time course that explores the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact. The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and provides students with a deep understanding of psychology and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior.

Course Structure

The program consists of three years of study, with each year comprising two semesters. The course structure includes:

• Year 1: Introduction to Psychology, Researching Psychology I, and Perspectives on Learning
• Year 2: Personality and Individual Differences, Social Psychology, and Researching Psychology II
• Year 3: Psychology Dissertation, BioPsychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Global Perspectives on Education

Modules

• Researching Psychology I: Introduces students to core areas and methods integral to the discipline and study of psychology.
• Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Explores physical development, cognitive development, social and emotional development throughout childhood and later into maturity.
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): Examines the origins of psychology, the history of science, and the Scientific Revolution.
• Perspectives on Learning: Introduces students to a range of key theoretical ideas and principles about learning from birth to adulthood.
• Personality and Individual Differences: Covers the history, cornerstone theoretical frameworks, and methodological approaches of personality research.
• Social Psychology: Develops students' knowledge and understanding of social psychology, including social constructionism, group processes, social cognition, collective behavior, and social interactions.
• Researching Psychology II: Builds on core methods and statistical techniques acquired at level 4 in Researching Psychology I.
• Interpreting Education Research: Prepares students for their Dissertation at Level 6, especially if they are intending to pursue a Dissertation (Capstone Project) in Education Studies or other Social Science.
• Social Justice: Diversity and Inclusion: Introduces students to the philosophical social justice debate and theories and ideologies of inclusive practice.
• Becoming a Professional: Draws on and develops students' understanding and experience of real-world contexts.
• Psychology 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.
• BioPsychology: Focuses on the BPS Core domain Biopsychology, covering aspects of the biological basis of behaviors, emotions, and mental health.
• Cognitive Psychology: Develops students' knowledge and understanding of the BPS core domain of Cognitive Psychology.
• Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: Provides students with an opportunity to build upon and apply the key intellectual, transferable, and practical skills gained at Levels 4 and 5 of the program.
• Global Perspectives on Education: Explores the impact of globalization on education policy and practice in different international settings.
• Contexts for Learning: Introduces students to a further range of contexts and settings for learning, examining these from the perspective of educators and learners, policy, and practice.
• Curriculum Debates and Future(s): Provides students with a theoretical and critical understanding of key considerations in the development and implementation of curriculum policy, content, and practice in educational settings.

Entry Requirements

• 96-112 UCAS tariff points (from a maximum of four Advanced Level qualifications)
• 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 students' learning, including portfolios, presentations, displays, and examinations and laboratory projects.
• In Education Studies, assessment is carried out through coursework of different types, including essays, reports, oral presentations, multimedia presentations, reflective logs, and portfolios.

Careers and Further Study

• 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.
• Education Studies graduates enjoy very high levels of employability, with around 70% of students completing a teacher training course and going on to be highly successful Primary or Secondary teachers.

Support

• Studying at BGU is a student-centered experience, with staff and students working together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere as part of an intimate campus community.
• The university provides a range of support services, including academic support, careers advice, and counseling.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Provide students with an in-depth understanding of the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact.
• Develop students' understanding of psychology and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior.
• Familiarize students with how these theories are applied in our lives, communities, and societies.
• Provide students with practical experience in psychological research methods and statistical analysis.
• Equip students with the ability to conduct independent research projects.

Program Description:

This program balances the theoretical understanding of psychology with its practical application. Students will be equipped with the ability to think critically, analyze data, predict, and reason with a focus on real-world applications. The program includes:

• Emphasis on psychological research methods and statistical analysis.
• Opportunities to work with research-active staff and participate in ongoing research projects.
• A range of core psychological domains and methods accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• Opportunities to explore contemporary issues, such as mindfulness, psychopathy, and the science of dreaming.
• A highly practical degree that offers up to 9 weeks of experience within work-based placements.

Other:

• The program fosters close student-tutor relationships due to small group sizes.
• Students gain valuable classroom practice and flexible opportunities to experience other educational settings.
• The program emphasizes student development as a practitioner in the field of psychology.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The program is delivered over three years, with each year consisting of three modules.
• Each module is typically taught over a 12-week period.
• Modules are assessed through a combination of coursework, exams, and presentations.

Individual Modules:

Year 1:

• Researching Psychology I: Introduces students to the field of psychology and its core areas and methods.
• Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Examines the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development throughout the lifespan.
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): Explores the history of psychology and contemporary debates within the field.

Year 2:

• The Brain, the Mind and Education: Examines the intersection of neuroscience, pedagogy, policy, and psychology.
• Perspectives on Learning: Explores key theoretical ideas and principles about learning from birth to adulthood.
• Personality and Individual Differences: Analyzes the structure of human personality and the factors that influence it.

Year 3:

• Social Psychology: Investigates how people think, feel, and act in relation to others and the world around them.
• Researching Psychology II: Builds on the methods and statistical techniques learned in Year 1 and introduces more advanced research designs.
• Becoming a Professional: Introduces students to key concepts and practices related to professionalism and reflective practice.
• Interpreting Education Research: Develops students' understanding of research methods in education research.
• Social Justice: Diversity and Inclusion: Explores the principles and practice of inclusive education and examines interpretations of diversity and inclusion.
• Psychology Dissertation: Requires students to conduct and report on an independent research project, demonstrating their mastery of academic knowledge and research skills.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework (essays, reports, presentations, projects)
• Exams
• Practical assessments
• Oral presentations
• Portfolios

Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of understanding of the subject matter
• Critical thinking and analysis skills
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations
• Communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to conduct independent research

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Practical workshops
• Placements
• Independent study

Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced and research-active staff.
• Staff members have a diverse range of expertise within the field of psychology.
• Students have regular opportunities to interact with staff and receive feedback on their work.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Clinical Psychologist
• Counselling Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• Teacher
• Educational Consultant
• Policy Analyst
• Human Resources Manager
• Marketing Manager
• The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of careers.
• Graduates are highly employable and in high demand.

Other:

• The program includes opportunities for students to participate in research projects.
• Students have access to a dedicated Careers Service to help them with their career planning.