Program Overview

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Our Biological Basis of Behaviour short course examines the relationship between biology, behaviour and mental processes, in particular the role of the brain and nervous system.

We plan to cover the following content:

Basic brain and nervous system anatomy and functions

Techniques used in biopsychology, cognitive neuroscience and related disciplines

Ethics and ‘neuroethics’

Neuroimaging techniques

Neuron structure and function, and neurotransmitters

Key evolutionary theories and concepts in genetics

Animal behaviour relevant to psychology

The role of hormones in psychology

The biological and cognitive perspectives on stress

The biology of emotions

Sociobiology and social/affective neuroscience

Biological perspective on mental health

Neuropsychology and brain disorders

The biological basis of vision and perception, human memory and language

The neural basis of consciousness, different states of consciousness and measuring consciousness

This Biological Basis of Behaviour short course is suitable for anyone interested in biology and human behaviour, including those working in health and social care who want to learn more about neuropsychology. It is also ideal if you have a non-psychology degree but need a Level 4 psychology qualification or a greater understanding of the importance of biological factors in psychology in order to progress to postgraduate study.

This 22-week course is assessed by two coursework essays and two in-class timed essays. If you do not want to gain credit, you can still take the course without completing assessments.

This can be taken as a standalone short course or as a part of:

Psychology (Certificate of Higher Education)

30 credits at level 4