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Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology

Classes

There are no classes currently available for registration.

Overview

The Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology short course introduces you to the concepts that form the basis of the discipline of psychology, including contributions from key thinkers. It also provides an overview of the way in which current thinking within the discipline has developed over time and examines the scientific status of psychology.

We plan to cover the following:

  • Psychology as a science
  • Ethics and methods in psychology
  • Darwinian evolution and genetics
  • Learning and behaviourism (Watson and Skinner)
  • Psychoanalysis (Freud)
  • Humanistic psychology (Rogers and Maslow)
  • Developmental psychology (Piaget and Vygotsky)
  • Cognitive revolution and information processing
  • Culture and psychology
  • Social constructionism and language

This 11-week Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Psychology short course will be of interest to anyone interested in human interaction and thought processes who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the perspectives and approaches that underlie contemporary psychology. It is also ideal if you have a non-psychology degree but need a Level 4 psychology qualification or a greater understanding of psychology in order to progress to postgraduate study.

Assessment is via a 1500-word essay (60%) and one-hour online multiple-choice test (40%). 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:

15 credits at level 4

  • Entry requirements

    Entry requirements

    Most of our short courses have no formal entry requirements and are open to all students.

    This short course has no prerequisites.

    As part of the enrolment process, you may be required to submit a copy of a suitable form of ID.

    International students who wish to come to the UK to study a short course can apply for a Visitor visa. Please note that it is not possible to obtain a Student visa to study a short course.

  • How to apply

    How to apply

    You register directly onto the classes you would like to take. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis - so apply early. If you wish to take more than one short course, you can select each one separately and then register onto them together via our online application portal. There is usually no formal selection process, although some modules may have prerequisites and/or other requirements, which will be specified where relevant.