BA (Hons)
Psychology
Degree Programme

Core courses

• PSYC 4101 Introduction to Psychology

  This course introduces students to the major areas within the psychology discipline, through current empirical research and theoretical debate. Students discover how psychological research is conducted and how research findings can be applied to understanding human behaviour. Topics include scientific methodology in psychology, and key contemporary areas of research, such as biopsychology, brain functioning; sensation and perception; evolutionary theory, development, personality, memory, consciousness, stress, psychological disorders, language, learning and social psychology.

• PSYC 4102 Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology

  This course engages students in an overview of the main philosophical, scientific and social ideas that formulated psychology as we know it today. We will cover conceptual and methodological positions underlying different paradigms and research trends in the study of human behaviour. We will examine the following questions: what is science and to what extend is psychology permeated by the characteristics of science; what is the extent of social and cultural construction in psychology; is or can psychology be morally or politically neutral; what can we learn from the history of psychology so far? In addition, this course will address the issues involved in acquiring knowledge through various scientific methodologies, the critique of traditional methods in psychology, the relationship between facts and values and the significance of the standpoint from which values are understood. Finally, we will discuss ethical issues in psychology, their origins, the moral underpinnings of theory, research and practice and how psychologists construct ethically responsible practices within a social environment.

Choose ONE of the following two options:

• COMM 4103 Introduction to Intercultural Communication

  Reflecting strongly the University’s mission of unity in diversity, this course provides theoretical and practical understanding of the role communication plays within and between cultures to build cohesion and/or create division. It provides students with a strong sense of their own complex cultural identities before moving on to teach them the theories underlying the study of International Communication. There will be opportunities for practical applications of these theories in case studies, simulations, and project work.

• CRIM 4101 Introduction to Criminology

  The course immerses students in the fundamental theories and evidence that shape the field of criminology. It explores various approaches to understanding crime, criminal justice, and policing, engaging with a range of crime types including juvenile delinquency, white-collar crime, rioting, and crimes against women and minorities. Additionally, the course examines organised crime, addressing the unique challenges and complexities it presents. Finally, it highlights the increasing importance of cybercrime in contemporary society.

Complete L4 Academic Literacies required course

• LIBA 4301 Academic Research and Writing (Complete L4 Academic Literacies required course)

  This course is designed to develop students’ critical research and writing skills to be effective in the academic and professional world. It focuses on principles of good scholarship and academic practice that will be required throughout university study and in a future professional work environment. These skills are enhanced throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, successful students will become confident in using available resources to produce well-researched writing that demonstrates critical engagement with a self-selected research topic.

Complete L4 Social/Behavioural Science required course

• CRIM 4102 Crime, Deviance and Society (Complete L4 Social/Behavioural Science required course)

  This course immerses students in the study of deviant and criminal behaviour, exploring the historical context, theories, and challenges surrounding the concept of ‘deviance’. It invites students to engage with debates on how crime and deviance are socially constructed, examining how public perceptions have evolved over time. The curriculum then shifts focus to the impact of social structures, highlighting issues of social exclusion and problematic forms of inclusion. Finally, students analyse historical behaviours once labelled as ‘deviant’ that may no longer be considered criminal, offering insight into the fluid nature of societal norms.

Complete L4 Data/Numeracy required course

• MATH 4101 Probability & Statistics (Complete L4 Data/Numeracy required course)

  This course in probability and statistics includes theoretical and applied approaches which are primarily designed for business, data science, social science and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing about the mean and proportions of up to two populations, Chi-square tests, One-way ANOVA and F Distribution, linear, multiple and non-linear regression and Non-parametric methods. SPSS lab sessions will be included targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, data science, social science and psychology. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software.

Complete L4 Science required course

• PSYC 4302 Biological Basis of Human Behaviour (Complete L4 Science required course)

  Exposes students to the relationship between biology and behavior. Students are expected to assess critically the extent to which biological explanations can be used to understand or explain human behavior. Topics covered include the nervous system, brain, emotion, vision, attention, sleep and motivational behavior, as well as psychopathology (for example language, eating, perceptual and memory disorders). In addition, the course also looks at discusses ethical issues in psychological research related to neuroscience.

Choose ONE L4 Arts/Humanities course from the following:

• ADPR 4101 Introduction to Advertising, PR and Media

  This course explores fundamental concepts, principles and tools in advertising and public relations, specifically in relation to the broader media industries and the professional contexts of both disciplines. It traces the history and evolution of advertising and public relations and how they interconnect, as well as investigating the political, economic, social and cultural contexts that they operate within. In examining advertising and PR in practice, it identifies key persuasive and creative aspects and techniques used in these fields, along with the planning and skills used to produce them. It also addresses advertising and PR practices in relation to contemporary issues and developments, including criticisms of the industries’ role and a range of ethical debates.

• ARTS 4101 History of Arts and Visual Cultures

  Throughout history and across cultures, humans have always translated and projected their own natural, social and religious environment into images and artifacts. This course aims to explore the making, display, meaning and impact of images and artifacts within specific cultural and societal settings until the end of the 19th century. This course intends to focus on the analysis of objects, artifacts, images, photography, film, advertising and fashion that still shape our knowledge of the past and, therefore, the present. Students will also explore the differing nature and characteristics of art history and visual culture, learn basic principles of visual analysis and semiotics, and discuss fundamental ideas such as those of Canon, Tradition, Perceptions and Representations. Learning in the classroom will be integrated through ad-hoc specialist guest lectures and visits to the extensive international collections of London museums, galleries and archives.

• COMM 4101 Introduction to Communications and Media

  The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the evolution of mass media and communication in a constantly changing global landscape. Starting by looking at how this has evolved from physical forms such as print and broadcast to digital forms such as different iterations of the internet, social media and the use of AI. This will incorporate both production and consumption of media within industries such as advertising, public relations, journalism, television, film, music and gaming. Important contemporary issues will be addressed alongside recent events and tools and theories to understand these issues will be applied in order to develop student’s media literacy. This will also be applied to complex topics that circumvent the media and communication world such as media ownership.

• COMM 4102 Introduction to Content Creation

  This practical course introduces students to key aspects of contemporary media production through the creation of their own podcasts, short film and photographic essay. It focuses on the key skills of photography, audio and visual recording and editing using industry standard hardware and software. Students will learn and develop practical skills offering the opportunity to demonstrate creativity across a range of visual and sonic mediums. They will also be introduced to the history of visual and sonic media (alongside contemporary examples of professional work) and learn key strategies (such as media skills audits) to identify and plan practical work.

• FILM 4102 Introduction to Filmmaking

  This course introduces students to key skills required for contemporary filmmaking in its various contexts. Students will experience working as part of a crew within a group, and be introduced to essential tools including video cameras, tripods and professional editing software. Using these tools, students produce short videos in response to specific briefs that each introduce different aspects of the filmmaking processes. By looking at noteworthy examples of other films, students are also introduced to the breadth of contemporary filmmaking practice and gain a basic introduction to relevant theoretical concerns.

• FILM 4101 Introduction to Film Studies

  This course explores film as a medium across cultural and historical contexts. It covers films in its varied form, from the first projections in the late 19th century to online distribution today. Using examples of noteworthy films, it takes an introductory examination of the most important film theories and concepts, in the process examining how ideologies and meanings are imbedded in this vibrant medium.

• HIST 4101 Atlantic Slavery and the Spectre of Capitalism

  This course examines the expansionist nature of Atlantic colonial societies and their economic impact, from early contact with African societies to the abolition of slavery in Brazil. Emphasis is placed on the Atlantic slave trade’s role in consolidating slave labour systems and shaping industrialisation. The course further explores how colonial economies drove the rise of modern capitalism through racial and economic exploitation. Beginning with the expropriation of Indigenous land and resources, it traces the development of plantation slavery and later industrial labour systems. Key topics include: resource extraction, debt, colonial economies, trade in goods and globalisation. These topics are analysed not only in economic terms, but also in their social and racial dimensions. Resistance movements and the evolving discourse on reparations will also be examined to understand their influence on economic structures today. Students will investigate the economic mechanisms behind colonisation and slavery, as well as the resistance to these systems, engaging in debates on the memory and legacy of these processes.

• HIST 4102 The Global Cold War

  This course introduces students to the major events and themes of the Cold War, demonstrating how it shaped the modern world system. In addition to providing students with a foundational understanding of the major themes and events of the Cold War, this course explores the interpretive controversies surrounding them. Students are encouraged to engage with the changing historiography of the multifaceted, multi-polar Cold War from a variety of challenging perspectives, with particular emphasis given to its global context. Students will examine the period in the light of changing historiographical interpretations and with reference to its economic, cultural, ideological, military, political and social dimensions.

• HIST 4103 World Cultural History

  This course surveys ancient cultures from the Bronze and Iron Ages, introducing students to the rich diversity of early civilisations and the parallels in their development. Students will explore how politics, religion, art, trade and beliefs influenced these civilisations, shaping their societies and cultures. Through analysis of both material and textual evidence, students will learn to engage critically with primary and secondary sources, enhancing their understanding of key historical processes, including the rise of states, the formation of empires and constructions of identity in the ancient world. The course will emphasize the study of early state formation, trade networks, and cross-cultural interactions, while fostering critical thinking and skills of historical analysis.

• LANG 4101 Korean Language and Culture 1

  This is an introductory course to Korean language and culture with an emphasis on oral communication in everyday situations and contemporary South Korean culture and society. This course introduces fundamental communication skills including the Korean alphabet and character construction, pronunciation, vocabulary, and essential speech patterns. It also explores contemporary South Korean popular culture with the aim to develop a keen awareness and broad understanding of how the Korean culture relates to the language.

Core courses

• PSYC 5101 Developmental Psychology

  Developmental Psychology explores the child's developing experience of the world. Major theories and issues in development from conception to adolescence are examined with a particular emphasis on the nature-nurture issue and cross-cultural studies. Topics covered include fetal development, physical development, cognitive development, social development and personality development. Students are encouraged to actively participate in class discussion and use their own experiences to help understand theoretical issues.

• PSYC 5102 Human Science Research

  Human Science Research engages students with the study and interpretation of lived experience. The course covers a range of qualitative models that govern human science research, with a special emphasis on the common features that distinguish them from natural science and quantitative research frameworks. One of the special features of the course is its practical emphasis, whereby students are encouraged to generate human science research questions, to carry out interviews and to complete a series of writing exercises that stimulate their capacity to interpret lived experience. The course also covers the relationship between writing and reflection, the value of narrative approaches, and research ethics in qualitative research. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding by means of descriptive interpretations and thematic analyses on key topics.

• PSYC 5103 Mind and Language

  This is an interdisciplinary course that introduces students to current research and debates in the areas of language and communication. Whereas similar courses have focused on the relationship between language and mind, this course aims to address a relatively neglected aspect of psychology: the relationship between language and self. Beginning with an overview of the biological basis of language and a review of the developmental research on language acquisition, the course will also examine the relation between gesture and language. Clinical models of communication will be covered, focusing on pathological forms of communication such as schizophrenia and autism. The second part of the course will examine structuralist and post-structuralist approaches to language, linguistic interpretations of psychoanalytic theory, narrative communication and narrative identity, as well as theories of reading and writing.

Choose ONE optional course from:

• ADPR 5102 Persuasive Communications in Advertising and PR

  This course examines the principles and the practical application of persuasive communication techniques within the contexts of advertising and public relations. Students will engage with key concepts used to understand the influence of public perception and behaviour, while gaining hands-on experience in crafting and evaluating persuasive messages using creativity and strategic communication. Students will analyse real world examples of effective marketing and business communications, while their coursework will reflect contemporary standards in these practices. With a focus on developing professional skills, students will have a variety of exercises where they will try their hand at writing PR materials and advertising copy.

• CRIM 5102 Criminal Justice Institutions and Processes

  This course is designed to enable students to build expertise in the main institutions and processes of the criminal justice system. We look at the key agents of state that are involved in criminal justice - law enforcement agencies, the judicial system, corrections and rehabilitation - as well as an in-depth look at alternative models, including non-custodial sentencing and privatised agencies of justice. We critically assess the various controversies and problems in the activities of these institutions over time, and the weaknesses and limitations of their processes.

• BUSM 5105 Organisational Behaviour and Ethics

  This course explores the nature of organisations, the influence of human behaviour on organisational performance and social impact, and ethical dilemmas organisations face. The course covers organisational behaviour at a macro- (issues relating to the environment and context within which organisations operate) and micro-level (influences of people as individuals and groups, their motivations and operating styles), reflects on various ethical principles and concepts of leadership, and encourages the students to critically evaluate current organisational practices.

• MARK 5101 Marketing Psychology and Consumer Behaviour

  This module develops understanding and application of interplay between psychology, marketing, and consumer behaviour. Using a variety of resources, including from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, students will explore the psychological processes that influence how consumers perceive, interpret, and respond to marketing stimuli. By understanding these underlying mechanisms, students will gain valuable insights into how to develop effective marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences and drive desired behaviours. The module will cover key topics such as perception, motivation, learning, attitudes, decision-making, and the influence of social and cultural factors on consumer choices.

Complete required Liberal Arts course

• DATA 5102 Data Analysis and Visualisation (Required Liberal Arts course)

  This course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental concepts in data analysis and visualization with an exploration of big data. The primary focus will be on utilizing Tableau as a powerful tool for data visualization while also introducing students to Python and R for data processing and analysis. Through hands-on practice and theoretical learning, students will develop the skills necessary to analyse and visualize data effectively. Additionally, the module will delve into the complexities of big data, providing insights into its management, processing, and the challenges associated with its analysis. By the end of this module, students will have a strong understanding of using Tableau for visual representation and gain introductory knowledge of Python's and R capabilities in handling and analysing data based on descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive analytics, which will enable learners to create meaningful insights from diverse datasets.

Complete required L5 Service-Learning course

• LIBA 5302 Service Learning: Leadership in a Globalised World (Required L5 Service-Learning course)

  This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service learning to global challenges and how to be a leader that creates positive change. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues. Students will learn how to lead and work with diverse teams to make a positive impact. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

Plus two Level 5 electives from across the curriculum. These can be selected to support a minor in an area outside of your subject discipline.

Core courses

• PSYC 6101 Clinical Psychology

  Combines lectures, case studies, and audiovisual sessions to introduce students to the field of clinical psychology, psychiatry, and mental health work. An examination of the symptoms and treatment options for a range of mental and emotional disorders, including anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia, raising several important issues for discussion. These include cultural variations in the definition and diagnosis of disordered states; the social psychological problems of the move from asylums to community care; and criticisms of the medical model of abnormality. This course will explore how modern Clinical Psychology implements evidence-based treatments to improve psychologically based distress or dysfunction and promote subjective and behavioural well-being and personal development.

• PSYC 6102 Developmental Psychopathology
• PSYC 6103 Psychology of Happiness and Wellbeing

  Positive psychologists argue that traditional psychology has tended to focus on dysfunction and unhappiness and that balance needs to be restored by research into what makes life go well. This course focuses on the science of happiness and wellbeing, integrating findings from Positive Psychology studies and theories. During this course, students will critically evaluate the teaching of Positive Psychology as a means of enhancing happiness and understand the difference between weaknesses and strengths, and how positive psychology emphasises the latter in contrast to traditional psychology’s emphasis on the former. Students will appreciate some of the factors that lead to happiness and learn how to capitalise on these factors in order to achieve lasting happiness, especially by getting to know their own strengths; students will also understand and use a variety of techniques and interventions designed to enhance happiness and wellbeing.

• PSYC 6110 Senior Project in Psychology

  The course examines the psychological forces that divert development from its typical channels and either sustain the deviation or foster a return to typical development. Using a comparative developmental framework, the psychopathologies to be covered will be arranged in chronological order from infancy to childhood and adolescence. Thus autism, insecure attachment and oppositional-defiant disorder will be examined in relation to typical development in infancy and early childhood, while ADHD and learning disabilities will be studied in the context of the preschool years. Other topics include anxiety disorders in middle childhood, child, and adolescent suicide, conduct and eating disorders, as well as the risks incurred by brain damage, child maltreatment and social victimisation. The course will also cover alternative models of child psychopathology, assessment procedures and approaches to intervention and prevention. Students will have the opportunity to do in-depth research on a topic of their choice and to think critically about case material.

Plus EITHER

• PSYC 6401 Internship in Psychology

  The Internship in Psychology is a student work placement that aims to provide students with the experience of working in a discipline-related industry. It provides students with an experiential learning opportunity in which to develop intellectual, professional, and personal skills and prepares students to function effectively in culturally diverse working environments across a range of career paths and employment sectors. Internships are supervised by faculty and each student will also complete a series of learning activities throughout the internship. These activities are designed to help students reflect on personal development and key skills attained, the benefits gained from the internship experience, and to shape and determine goals for future career pathways.

Or TWO of the following Major Options:

• PSYC 6104 Health Psychology

  Although nowadays people live longer and are currently ‘healthier’ than in the past, not everyone has a sense of improved health or wellbeing. Health Psychology analyses the biopsychosocial factors which contribute to and maintain illness/disease in contemporary society. Health Psychology aims to improve wellbeing by applying psychological theories, methods and research to the promotion of health; prevention and treatment of illness and disability; analysis and improvement of the health care system and; health policy formation.

• ADPR 6101 Creative Campaigns in Advertising and PR

  This course focuses on the development and execution of creative campaigns in advertising and public relations. Students will learn to apply advanced concepts and techniques to create impactful campaigns that resonate with target audiences. It builds upon earlier study of advertising and PR and requires students to examine and discuss campaigns involving advertising and PR and to present their own ideas for a fully-fledged campaign bringing together both disciplines. This will include the critical examination and evaluation of past campaigns in a variety of contexts and the planning, pitching and discussion of ideas for campaigns of the students’ own devising.

• CRIM 6101 Counter-Extremism and Counter-Terrorism

  This course explores some of the main national and international efforts to counter terrorism, extremism and transnational crime. We examine types of terrorism and extremism and the theories and strategies underpinning state responses. We explore the phenomenon of transnational organised crime and consider where it intersects with terrorism and extremism. We discuss these phenomena from the perspectives of victims and perpetrators, processes of violent radicalisation, typologies of terror, and the strengths and weaknesses of strategies to counter and/or limit terrorism and extremism, including de-radicalisation. We also consider the capacity of institutions and international cooperations to thwart and restrict transnational crime, and explore the intersections between trafficking, terrorism and the commission of atrocities.

• BUSM 6102 Project Management Skills and Methods

  This module provides a comprehensive overview of programme management principles, processes, and techniques. Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage complex programmes within a variety of organizational contexts. Contemporary project management methods will be explored. The module emphasizes the strategic alignment of programmes with organizational objectives and the importance of stakeholder engagement, risk management, and benefits realization. Furthermore, it explores a range of programme management methodologies, equipping students with the ability to select and apply the most appropriate approach for diverse project scenarios.

• BUSM 6104 Leadership and People Management

  This module provides a critical exploration of leadership in the context of managing people and talent within organizations. Students will develop a deep understanding of contemporary leadership theories and their application to the challenges of attracting, developing, motivating, and retaining talent in a rapidly changing world. The module emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, ethical leadership, and social responsibility in creating a high-performing and sustainable workforce. Through real-life examples, case studies, and interactive discussions, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to lead effectively in today's complex and dynamic business environment.

• MARK 6102 Integrated Marketing Communications

  In today's dynamic media landscape, effective marketing requires a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates traditional and digital channels. Integrated marketing communications (IMC) encompassing both traditional (advertising, OOH, PR, sponsorship, events etc) and digital marketing (social media, SEO and SEM, websites, email, experiential, influencers, AR etc) equips students with the knowledge and skills to develop and execute successful marketing strategies across various platforms. Course material will draw from a blend of theory, tools, media campaigns, case studies, and contemporary brand examples.

• MATH 6103 Time Series Analysis and Forecasting

  This course introduces students to the fundamentals and advanced techniques of time series analysis and forecasting. Students will learn how to model, analyze, and forecast time-dependent data using both statistical and machine learning approaches. The course will cover classical time series models such as ARIMA, exponential smoothing, and state-space models, as well as more advanced techniques including neural networks and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models. The emphasis will be on practical applications in various fields, including finance, economics, and environmental sciences, using real-world datasets and computational tools like Python and R.

Plus one elective of your choice, which may support a minor.