BSc (Hons) Psychology (BPS)

Psychology is a fascinating science. Why do people behave in the way they do? How do our minds work? The key knowledge areas within psychology will all be covered in this course: research methods, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, individual differences, developmental psychology and social psychology. You will also gain knowledge of the history of psychological theory.

Course Overview

Arden University’s online BSc (Hons) Psychology (BPS) programme will provide the skills and knowledge needed to take your next professional step in your career. This course will help develop your understanding of the origins of psychological study, and the contemporary practices used by professionals in this field.

This programme is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), giving you access to a wide range of additional resources for free during your studies. Successful graduates with a lower second class Honours degree (2:2) will be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the BPS - the basic requirement to train as a professional Psychologist.

Arden’s online study mode allows you to develop your professional psychology knowledge around your existing commitments. This programme will equip you with a sound understanding of the scientific principles that underpin this field, and help take you closer to your career goals. This programme is delivered 100% online.

The full range of programmes offered by Arden features a strong focus on employability, practical skills, and career success. This programme has been designed to develop your research capabilities, and prepare you with the skills for a range of careers.

Course Modules

Level 4

Introduction to Studying Psychology
This module introduces some major topics in psychology, and how to make the most of the online learning materials. You will begin the process of university-level learning with your fellow students via the discussion forums, and develop your critical thinking and academic writing skills.

Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology
This branch of psychology examines the changes that occur throughout the human lifespan. During this module, you’ll cover a range of theories, including forming of identity, personality, ideas about the self and language acquisition. You’ll look at how people’s thoughts and behaviours are influenced by the lens of social psychology.

Introduction to Biological and Cognitive Psychology
Discover the cognitive processes that are central to how we see, hear, and learn new skills. Learn how we grow and gain a sense of perception, attention, learning, memory, and decision-making abilities. In this module, you’ll learn about some of the biological processes and cognitive principles required to understand psychology, including the basic structure and functions of the nervous system.

Introduction to Research Methods 1
Empirical research is essential for the study of psychology. You’ll develop the skills and knowledge to conduct your own empirical research, introducing research design and experimental methodology. You will use qualitative and quantitative data to design simple studies and report using a professional format.

Introduction to Research Methods 2
In this module, you will continue to present psychological data in professional reports, and critically assess published psychological research. You’ll cover concepts such as descriptive and inferential statistics, and learn to use packages such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences to develop the statistical skills that allow you to report on your work and that of others.

Key Studies in Psychology
Looking at several important studies in psychology, you’ll gain a broader understanding of the ways the discipline has evolved. Learn about different methods to investigate the mind, the context in which they were developed, and the impact they have had on the different branches of psychology.

Level 5

Personality and Intelligence
Learn about historical and contemporary approaches to personality and intelligence and their implications for society and education. You’ll discover the role of genes and environment, psychometric tests and cultural effects, and with several substantial topics to engage with, you’ll get the chance to debate key aspects of personality and intelligence in this module - from behavioural to biological.

Social Psychology
Gain an understanding of human behaviour as you explore conceptual and historical issues in social psychology. Using traditional and critical research methods, you will practically apply a range of theories to real-world issues and explore social constructionism, culture, language, identity and more.

Brain and Behaviour
You will look at the influence of biology on our experience and behaviour, and consider topics from general sensory processing to language and consciousness. This module looks at the difference between sensation and perception, the extent to which biology explains behaviour, and gives you the chance to investigate how the brain adapts to changes through neuroplasticity.

Advanced Topics in Cognitive Psychology
This module gives you the chance to develop your understanding of memory, communication, and thought. You’ll explore short and long term memory, speech and language, and how individuals make decisions.

Quantitative Research Methods
This module forms an important part of your degree and continues your understanding of statistical analyses. You will explore the underlying principles of hypothesis generation, calculations, interpretation and reporting. Running your own experiment, you will consider ethics, analyse and interpret the data you collect, and report your results in a professional format.

Qualitative Research Methods
This module examines techniques such as focus groups, interviews, and observation. You’ll learn to draw out your findings through analysis, and using previous studies as a basis, you will design and carry out an interview, then transcribe, and interpret your findings.

Level 6

Contemporary Developmental Psychology
From the development of the self, early social interaction and later-life effects of development, this module looks at important theories and debates. You will be encouraged to think holistically, linking the most up-to-date thinking to the ways different aspects of development relate to each other.

Cross-Cultural Psychology
Because most psychological research has been conducted amongst Western society, it mostly applies to a limited population. As cultural borders blur, this module looks at the similarities and differences between cultures, and how we understand and act towards each other. You’ll learn how these studies are done and have a chance to exercise your critical and analytical skills through a case study approach.

Occupational Psychology
You’ll explore the dynamic branch of psychology that examines how to improve job satisfaction and get the most out of employees. Discover the latest thinking about leadership, teamwork, motivation and personality types, combined with organisational development. This module also considers how social and political influences, alongside technology and the economy, affect organisations and those working with them.

Mental Health and Illness
Looking at complex mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders, you’ll examine the various causes and treatments. In this module, you’ll consider the different factors affecting mental health, and diagnoses, evaluate mental health policies, and such techniques as mindfulness training.

Research Project
This module gives you the chance to conduct your own empirical study project, and demonstrate all you have learnt. You will be able to choose between qualitative and quantitative studies, and make use of the data collection and analysis skills you have developed during the programme.

Accreditation

This Honors Psychology degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Through this Arden University course, you will be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (BPS), essential for pursuing a career in recognised Psychology professions. Whilst you are actively studying with Arden, we will cover the cost of your student membership with the BPS. This gives you access to a great range of additional resources to assist with your studies.

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Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this programme you must normally have:

• Two subjects at GCE A-Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three subjects at GCSE level including Maths or equivalent; OR
• Completed a recognised Access Programme or equivalent.
• For students whose prior learning was not taught in English: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent (no less than 5.5 in any element).

If you have work experience

If you have GCSE Maths at grade C or above, or completed a recognised Access Programme or equivalent, we are happy to consider an application from you based on your work experience, if you can show us you have the motivation to study the programme through online learning at Arden University.

We’ll ask you for a personal statement that demonstrates your ability to study the course. We’ll also ask you for references and evidence of relevant work experience.