The Higher Diploma in Psychology is a full-time programme running over two academic years from the date of first registration for the programme. (The programme may also be taken over a maximum of four academic years part-time).

Candidates should normally have at least a Second Class Honours, Grade I degree.

It may be necessary to limit numbers, and candidates will have to satisfy a Selection Committee at interview. Previous study of psychology, although not a requirement, is highly advantageous.

Year 1
Students take 60 credits as follows:
AP2101 Abnormal Psychology (5 credits)
AP2102 Biological Bases of Behaviour (5 credits)
AP2103 Cognitive Psychology 1 (5 credits)
AP2104 Developmental Psychology (5 credits)
AP2105 Experimental Design and Statistical Applications 2 (5 credits)
AP2106 History and Philosophy of Psychology (5 credits)
AP2107 Individual Differences (5 credits)
AP2109 Social Psychology (5 credits)
AP2203 Cognitive Psychology 2 (5 credits)
AP2208 Advanced Research Methods in Psychology II (10 credits)
AP2308 Real World Research in Applied Psychology (5 credits)

Module Semester Information may be found here. Module descriptions may be found here.

Year 2
Students take 60 credits as follows:
AP3102 Applied Biological Psychology (5 credits)
AP3103 Applied Cognitive Psychology (5 credits)
AP3113 Applied Developmental Psychology (5 credits)
AP3108 Practical Project Work (20 credits)
AP3109 Applied Social and Health Psychology (5 credits)
AP3111 Professional Skills (5 credits)
plus
15 credits (with a minimum of 5 credits and maximum of 10 credits in each semester) from the following:
AN4009 Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience (5 credits)
AN4012 Medical Imaging and Biomedical Devices in the Neurosciences (5 credits)
AP3015 Forensic Psychology (5 credits)
AP3019 Human Sexuality (5 credits)
AP3020 Applying Psychology in Community Settings (5 credits)
AP3030 Special Educational Needs: Aetiology, Assessment and Intervention (5 credits)
AP3033 Positive Psychology (5 credits)
AP3036 Applied Developmental Psychology II: The Psychology of Aging (5 credits)
AP3037 Work Psychology (5 credits)
AP3110 Psychological Therapies (5 credits)
AP3299 Human Computer Interaction (HCI) (5 credits)

Module Semester Information may be found here. Module Descriptions may be found here.

Examinations
Full details and regulations governing Examinations for each programme will be contained in the Marks and Standards 2016 Book and for each module in the Book of Modules 2015/2016.

Programme Learning Outcomes for Higher Diploma in Psychology (NFQ Level 8, Major Award)

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate both knowledge and understanding in the core components of psychology;
• Exhibit the ability to write in an appropriate academic style;
• Demonstrate an appreciation of different research methodologies;
• Design and execute a piece of research in the area of psychology.