Cynlluniau Astudio

Psychology (with integrated year in industry)


1 : Awarding Institution / Body
Aberystwyth University


2a : Teaching Institution / University
Aberystwyth University


2b : Work-based learning (where appropriate)


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- Module PS20620 provides 20 hours of work based learning where Psychology is emphasised. Work based learning is also part of the degree where students enrolled must fulfil an industry based placement between year 2 and 3.Students will also be able to participate in the Year in Employment Scheme where students can take part in a wide range of a range of internship opportunities organised through our career services.

Integrated year in industry available



3a : Programme accredited by
Aberystwyth University


3b : Programme approved by
Aberystwyth University


4 : Final Award
Bachelor of Science


5 : Programme title
Psychology (with integrated year in industry)


6 : UCAS code
WF7F


7 : QAA Subject Benchmark


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- All our Psychology schemes meet QAA subject benchmark statements and Level 4-6framework for Higher Education (Level 4-6) to the identical nature of Level 4-6 core curriculum. The benchmark statement for Psychology can be found here : www.qaa.ac.uk/en/Publications/Documents/Subject-benchmark-statement-Psychology.pdf

Psychology



8 : Date of publication


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- 15/01/2016

September 2023



9 : Educational aims of the programme


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- Our psychology schemes provide graduates with foundations of psychological theory and application together with appropriate academic and employability skills. Students are encouraged to move from being supported learners to becoming autonomous learners as they progress through Levels 4, 5, and 6 of the national framework for Higher Education. Level 4 is designed to provide a solid foundation in psychology (PS11420, PS11220) and how theory intertwines with professional application (PS11520), but also how these foundations are underpinned by competent research skills and knowledge (PS11320; PS11620). Level 5 continues to encourage inter-relatedness of psychology and everyday life that is underpinned by research (PS20320), but is designed to encourage a more independent approach to learning in more specific modules (PS20120, PS20220, PS20420, PS20520) where ability to search and utilise research articles beyond the core reading . To encourage Psychology’s applications to the real world students will spend a voluntary 20 hour work-placement (PS20620). A number of module options also are provided in Level 5 outside of the BPS curriculum, such as Forensic Psychology and Evolutionary Psychology. On completion of Level 5 students will be equipped with a sufficiently broad stock of information and practical experience of techniques, to make an informed decision about a topic for the Research Project at Level 6. However, before entering Level 6, students on this degree will then have an opportunity to extend their knowledge of psychology by taking part in a year in industry where they will be expected to apply their psychological knowledge within a work environment. This year in industry build upon the skills learnt in their Level 5 work placement module (PS20620). Level 6 is arranged very specifically around the themes of identity, health, and cognition and language. In terms of assessment, it is expected that as students move from supported to autonomous learners that this will be evidenced in their assessment where their work will be based on tutor-led material at Level 4, while at Level 6, students will be required to produce and analyse material independently, drawing not only on final year content but that of the entire programme.

Psychology single honours provides graduates with foundations of psychological theory and application together with appropriate academic and employability skills. Students are encouraged to move from being supported learners to becoming autonomous learners as they progress through Levels 4, 5, and 6. Level 4 is designed to provide a solid foundation in psychology (PS11420, PS11220) and how theory intertwines with professional application (PS11520), but also how these foundations are underpinned with research (PS11320). Level 5 continues to encourage inter-relatedness of psychology that is underpinned by research (PS20320), but is designed to encourage a more independent approach to learning in more specific core modules (PS20120, PS20220) as well in applied special option modules (PS20720, PS20820, PS20920, PS21220). On completion of Level 5 students will be equipped with a sufficiently broad stock of information and practical experience of techniques, to make an informed decision about a topic for the Research Project at Level 6. Level 6 builds on the core modules at level 5 as students complete their engagement with specific core modules (PS34220, PS34320), alongside a further choice of applied special option modules (PS31220, PS31520, PS31620, PS31720). In terms of assessment, it is expected that as students move from supported to autonomous learners that this will be evidenced in their assessment where their work will be based on tutor-led material at Level 4, while at Level 6, students will be required to produce and analyze material independently, drawing not only on final year content but that of the entire programme.
Students completing this degree will have:

• A thorough knowledge of psychology, where psychology is defined in broad terms as the scientific study of mind, brain, behaviour and experience, and the complex interactions between these.

• A knowledge and critical understanding of the key academic constituencies which compromise Psychology within the areas of biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology together with the psychology of individual differences.

• An ability to think, speak and write professionally; to question, to be critical, to be analytical, and to be creative in ways appropriate to the subject.

• An ability to apply a range of psychological methodologies appropriately and to understand their limitations.

• Skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods and research design

• An understanding of the rigorous and precise nature of scientific method and a thorough grasp of experimental design and statistical analysis.

• An ability to undertake original research using investigative skills appropriate to the laboratory and applied settings, using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

• An awareness of relevant ethical considerations.

• An ability to apply their understanding of psychological theory and research in a variety of applied areas.



10 : Intended learning outcomes


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills and other attributes in the discipline of Psychology. The structure and delivery of the degree scheme recognize the need to achieve an appropriate balance between the acquisition of the subject specific knowledge, and the development of generic skills. Integrating these two components of the scheme is a central feature of the degree scheme. The programme outcomes are referenced to the QAA benchmark statements for Psychology and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and relate to the typical student. Students completing this degree will have:
  • A thorough knowledge of psychology, where psychology is defined in broad terms as the scientific study of mind, brain, behaviour and experience, and the complex interactions between these.

  • A knowledge and critical understanding of the key academic constituencies which compromise Psychology within the areas of biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology together with the psychology of individual differences.

  • An ability to think, speak and write professionally; to question, to be critical, to be analytical, and to be creative in ways appropriate to the subject.

  • An ability to apply a range of psychological methodologies appropriately and to understand their limitations.

  • Skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods and research design

  • An understanding of the rigorous and precise nature of scientific method and a thorough grasp of experimental design and statistical analysis.

  • An ability to undertake original research using investigative skills appropriate to the laboratory and applied settings, using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

  • An awareness of relevant ethical considerations.

  • An ability to apply their understanding of psychological theory and research in a variety of applied areas

  • An insight into the roles, priorities and skill sets of professionals in the applied setting.

  • Ability to reflect on and evidence skill sets to enhance personal growth and to respond to the demands of graduate career pathways.

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills and other attributes in the discipline of Psychology. The structure and delivery of the degree scheme recognize the need to achieve an appropriate balance between the acquisition of the subject specific knowledge, and the development of generic skills. Integrating these two components of the scheme is a central feature of the degree scheme. The programme outcomes are referenced to the QAA benchmark statements for Psychology and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and relate to the typical student.


10.1 : Knowledge and understanding


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- By the end of the single honours degree, students will be expected to have acquired and demonstrated:
  • A1 A comprehensive knowledge of the core domains within psychology and their applications.

  • A2 an understanding of the relationship between psychology and cognate disciplines e.g. biology, sociology, psychiatry.

  • A3 a comprehensive appreciation of the assimilation within psychology of themes, theories, methods, and findings from other discipline areas.

  • A4 a comprehensive appreciation of the integration which can occur within the subject.

  • A5 a comprehensive knowledge of a range of research methods and measurement techniques.

  • A6 an in-depth knowledge of selected specialists areas of psychology at Level 6. Teaching and Learning methods and assessment. Acquisition of knowledge and understanding is through a combination of lectures (A1-A6), group seminars (A1-A4, A6), coursework (A1-A6) and laboratory work (A1-A6), as well as through supervision (A1-A6). Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught/learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Knowledge and understanding are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations (A1- A6) and in-course assessments (A1-A6), in the form of practical laboratory reports (A1-A6), essay assignments (A1-A4,A6), group presentations (A2,A3,A5,A6), portfolios (A3), in-class tests (A1, A2, A3, A5), project report (A2, A4,A5), oral presentations (A1-A6) and research participation (A2), and eLearning assessments that include Wikis and Blogs (A1-A6). Importantly, the whole degree encourages, promotes, and facilitates active learning where students are able to learn through less formal means, such as the Psychology Society and public lectures. Students are also supported through academic progress meetings with their personal and / or subject tutors

By the end of the single honours degree, students will be expected to have acquired and demonstrated:

• A1 A comprehensive knowledge of the core domains within psychology and their applications.

• A2 an understanding of the relationship between psychology and cognate disciplines e.g. biology, sociology, psychiatry.

• A3 a comprehensive appreciation of the assimilation within psychology of themes, theories, methods, and findings from other discipline areas.

• A4 a comprehensive appreciation of the integration which can occur within the subject.

• A5 a comprehensive knowledge of a range of research methods and measurement.

• Techniques.

• A6 an in-depth knowledge of selected specialists areas of psychology at Level 6.

Teaching and Learning methods and assessment

Acquisition of knowledge and understanding is through a combination of lectures (A1-A6), group seminars (A1-A4, A6), coursework (A1-A6) and laboratory work (A1-A6), as well as through supervision (A1-A6). Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught/learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Knowledge and understanding are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations (A1- A6) and in-course assessments (A1-A6), in the form of practical laboratory reports (A1-A6), essay assignments (A1-A4,A6), group presentations (A2,A3,A5,A6), portfolios (A3), in-class tests (A1, A2, A3, A5), project report (A2, A4,A5), oral presentations (A1-A6) and research participation (A2), and eLearning assessments that include Wikis and Blogs (A1-A6). Importantly, the whole degree encourages, promotes, and facilitates active learning where students are able to learn through less formal means, such as the Psychology Society and public lectures. Students are also supported through academic progress meetings with their personal and / or subject tutors.


10.2 : Skills and other attributes


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- Intellectual skills
  • B1 the ability to integrate simple and challenging ideas and empirical findings and assess the relevance of theoretical knowledge in applied contexts;

  • B2 the ability to extrapolate and comprehend the application of knowledge within the areas of psychology;

  • B4 the ability to display critical thinking skills;

  • B5 the ability to process information in a manner displaying advanced cognitive skills;

  • B6 the ability to define and appreciate complex problems and offer solutions;

  • B7 Integrate and critically evaluate information and data from a variety of sources to construct cogent arguments;

  • B8 Attend to the distinction between primary and secondary sources of information;

  • B9 Reflect on experience of learning and adjust intellectual perspective

Teaching, learning and assessment Student development of intellectual skills from B1-B8 are promoted through lectures, group seminars, coursework, and laboratory work, as well as through supervision at Level 6. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught / learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. The application of these skills in the context of specific areas of psychological enquiry is demonstrated through lectures and seminars for core and optional modules at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Reflection and self-assessment (B9) are integral to the learning of intellectual skills and will be developed through feedback on summative and formative assessments and through the online PDP facility. Intellectual skills (B1-B8) are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations and in-course assessments, in the form of practical laboratory reports, essay assignments, portfolios, in-class tests, project report, group and oral presentations, and research participation, as well as eLearning assessments that include Wikis (Social Psychology) and Blogs (Music Psychology). The use of reflection tools through the PDP are used to develop the students critical awareness and identify their performance. Personal tutors provide feedback regarding academic performance of students. Professional practical skills These are developed further in the work placement module at level 2. On completion of the Programme students should be able to:
  • C1 - Interact ethically and professionally with research participants;

  • C2 - Generate and explore complex hypotheses and research questions;

  • C3 - Initiate, design and conduct complex empirical-based studies involving a variety of methods of data collection;

  • C4 - Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data;

  • C5 - Effectively employ specialist computer packages (at Level 5 and 6) to analyse and use complex numerical, statistical and other data using quantitative methods;

  • C6 - Effectively employ thorough advanced qualitative approaches and methods to analyse complex text, media and human experiences;

  • C7 - Search specialist databases to be able to conduct and write literature reviews;

  • C8 - Evaluate, present and communicate effectively complex findings by a variety of means, such as a research report

Teaching, learning and assessment methods Practical skills are developed through a series of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical laboratory classes at levels 4 and 5 and further developed through a supervised independent research project at level 6. C7 is also acquired through essay writing at all levels, but developed to an advanced standard at level 6 in the systematic review module where C2-C8 are also developed in the module. At level 4, students engage in C5 using formula and calculations by hand before moving to specialist computer packages at Level 5 and 6. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to consolidate practical skills (C1-C8) through practice with appropriate research methods and projects. Practical skills are assessed through practical and project reports (C1-C8), statistics tests and examinations (C4-C5), poster presentations (C1-C6; C8), portfolios (C1-C2; C8), and Wikis (C4, C8), group and individual presentations (C2, C7, C8). At level 6 the Dissertation project may, depending on the topic, assess any or all of outcomes C1 to C8 • B1 the ability to integrate simple and challenging ideas and empirical findings and assess the relevance of theoretical knowledge in applied contexts;

• B2 the ability to extrapolate and comprehend the application of knowledge within the areas of psychology;

• B4 the ability to display critical thinking skills;

• B5 the ability to process information in a manner displaying advanced cognitive skills;

• B6 the ability to define and appreciate complex problems and offer solutions;

• B7 Integrate and critically evaluate information and data from a variety of sources to construct cogent arguments;

• B8 Attend to the distinction between primary and secondary sources of information;

• B9 Reflect on experience of learning and adjust intellectual perspective.

Teaching and Learning and Assessment

Student development of intellectual skills from B1-B8 are promoted through lectures, group seminars, coursework, and laboratory work, as well as through supervision at Level 6. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught / learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. The application of these skills in the context of specific areas of psychological enquiry is demonstrated through lectures and seminars for core and optional modules at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Reflection and self-assessment (B9) are integral to the learning of intellectual skills and will be developed through feedback on summative and formative assessments and through the online PDP facility. Intellectual skills (B1-B8) are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations and in-course assessments, in the form of practical laboratory reports, essay assignments, portfolios, in-class tests, project report, group and oral presentations, and research participation, as well as eLearning assessments. The use of reflection tools through the PDP are used to develop the students critical awareness and identify their performance. Personal tutors provide feedback regarding academic performance of students.

10.2.1 Practical Skills:

These are developed further in the work placement module at level 2.

On completion of the Programme students should be able to:

• C1 - Interact ethically and professionally with research participants;

• C2 - Generate and explore complex hypotheses and research questions;

• C3 - Initiate, design and conduct complex empirical-based studies involving a variety of methods of data collection;

• C4 - Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data;

• C5 - Effectively employ specialist computer packages (at Level 5 and 6) to analyse and use complex numerical, statistical and other data using quantitative methods;

• C6 - Effectively employ thorough advanced qualitative approaches and methods to analyse complex text, media and human experiences;

• C7 - Search specialist databases to be able to conduct and write literature reviews;

• C8 - Evaluate, present and communicate effectively complex findings by a variety of means, such as a research report

Teaching and Learning and Assessment

Practical skills are developed through a series of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical laboratory classes at levels 4 and 5 and further developed through a supervised independent research project at level 6. C7 is also acquired through essay writing at all levels, but developed to an advanced standard at level 6 in the systematic review module where C2-C8 are also developed in the module. At level 4, students engage in C5 using formula and calculations by hand before moving to specialist computer packages at Level 5 and 6. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to consolidate practical skills (C1-C8) through practice with appropriate research methods and projects. Practical skills are assessed through practical and project reports (C1-C8), statistics tests and examinations (C4-C5), poster presentations (C1-C6; C8), portfolios (C1-C2; C8), and Wikis (C4, C8), group and individual presentations (C2, C7, C8). At level 6 the Dissertation project may, depending on the topic, assess any or all of outcomes C1 to C8.


10.3 : Transferable/Key skills


Information provided by Department of Psychology
- On completion of the degree scheme, students should be able to demonstrate a high standard of work ethic to take with them into employability, while also demonstrating a number of general transferable skills acquired through studying at degree level, and include:
  • D1- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

  • D2- Work effectively within a group

  • D3- Work and learn independently

  • D4- Manage time, resources, and work to deadlines efficiently

  • D5- Effectively use information and communication technology to produce and present ideas and documents

  • D6- Show respect for the views and ideas of others

  • D7- Identify career opportunities

  • D8-Decision making; Identify problems and provide solutions.

  • D9- Recognise the need to continually update knowledge and skills

Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods Used The programme aims to promote, develop and nurture students’ awareness of and competence in these key transferable skills, many of which students will already possess to a greater or lesser degree of competence. All of these skills are integral to teaching and learning activities across the programme and are embedded in the degree scheme. Others (D7-D9) are developed through specific modules and learning activities, such as Level 5 work placement module and personal development plan (PDP). Group work (D2) through data collection, research findings, and project coordination is a strong feature of the course that compliments the independent skills developed in most modules, and is a particular feature at level 4 and 5. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to develop transferable skills by maintaining a record of evidence and completing a personal development plan (PDP) initiated in Level 4. Transferable skills are assessed through unseen examinations, in-class tests (D1, D3); laboratory reports, essays including placement essay, project report (D1, D3-D5,D8), poster presentations, mini- projects and laboratory group work (D1-D6,D8), portfolios (D6 and D7). In addition, a number of the above skills are explicitly assessed at various points during the programme through a range of methods, including the Dissertation project (D1, D3-D5, D8), oral presentations (D1-D2), group debates and discussions (D2,D6), placement portfolio (D7, D9). On completion of the degree scheme, students should be able to demonstrate a high standard of work ethic to take with them into employability, while also demonstrating a number of general transferable skills acquired through studying at degree level, and include:
• D1- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

• D2- Work effectively within a group

• D3- Work and learn independently

• D4- Manage time, resources, and work to deadlines efficiently

• D5- Effectively use information and communication technology to produce and present ideas and documents

• D6- Show respect for the views and ideas of others

• D7- Identify career opportunities

• D8-Decision making; Identify problems and provide solutions.

• D9- Recognise the need to continually update knowledge and skills Teaching and Learning and Assessment The programme aims to promote, develop and nurture students’ awareness of and competence in these key transferable skills, many of which students will already possess to a greater or lesser degree of competence. All of these skills are integral to teaching and learning activities across the programme and are embedded in the degree scheme. Others (D7-D9) are developed through specific modules and learning activities, such as Level 5 work placement module and personal development plan (PDP). Group work (D2) through data collection, research findings, and project coordination is a strong feature of the course that compliments the independent skills developed in most modules, and is a particular feature at level 4 and 5. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to develop transferable skills by maintaining a record of evidence and completing a personal development plan (PDP) initiated in Level 4. Transferable skills are assessed through unseen examinations, in-class tests (D1, D3); laboratory reports, essays including placement essay, project report (D1, D3-D5,D8), poster presentations, mini- projects and laboratory group work (D1-D6,D8), portfolios (D6 and D7). In addition, a number of the above skills are explicitly assessed at various points during the programme through a range of methods, including the Dissertation project (D1, D3-D5, D8), oral presentations (D1-D2), group debates and discussions (D2,D6), placement portfolio (D7, D9).


11 : Program Structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards




BSC Psychology (with integrated year in industry) [WF7F]

Blwyddyn Academaidd: 2024/2025Cynllun Anrhydedd Sengl - ar gael ers 2015/2016

Hyd (astudio Llawn Amser): 4 blwyddyn

Rheolau Rhan 1

Blwyddyn 1 Craidd (120 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
PS11300

Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology

PS11420

Introduction to core topics in Social and Individual Behaviour

PS11520

Applications of Psychology

PS11710

Personal Development and Organisational Behaviour

Semester 2
PS11220

Brain, Behaviour and Cognition

PS11320

Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology

PS11610

Designing Psychological Research Projects

PS11820

Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology

Rheolau Rhan 2

Blwyddyn 2 Craidd (60 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
PS21310

Quantitative Research Methods

PS21820

Cognitive Psychology

Semester 2
PS20220

Social Psychology

PS20310

Qualitative Research Methods

Blwyddyn 2 Opsiynau

Students should select 60 credits from the optional modules below.

Semester 1
PS20420

The Psychology of Language

PS20600

Psychology in Practice

PS21220

Forensic Psychology

PS21720

Issues in Clinical Psychology

Semester 2
PS20620

Psychology in Practice

PS20720

Health Psychology

PS21020

Evolutionary Psychology

SC20720

Seicoleg Iechyd

Blwyddyn 3 Craidd (120 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
PSS0200

Work Placement

PSS0300

Work Placement

Semester 2
PSS0260

Work Placement

PSS0360

Work Placement

Blwyddyn Olaf Craidd (80 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
PS32120

Behavioural Neuroscience

PS33100

Psychology Research Project for Single Honours

Semester 2
PS33140

Psychology Research Project for Single Honours

PS34320

Developmental Psychology

Blwyddyn Olaf Opsiynau

Choose 40 credits

Semester 1
PS30600

Psychology in Practice

PS30820

Drugs and Behaviour

PS31920

The Psychology of Counselling, Coaching and Mentoring

PS32620

Psychology of Humour

Semester 2
PS30620

Psychology in Practice

PS31520

Psychology Critical Review

PS31720

21st Century Self: Critical and Constructionist Approaches to Contemporary Personhood

PS31820

Child Language: Development and Assessment


12 : Support for students and their learning
Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor. Personal Tutors have an important role within the overall framework for supporting students and their personal development at the University. The role is crucial in helping students to identify where they might find support, how and where to seek advice and how to approach support to maximise their student experience. Further support for students and their learning is provided by Information Services and Student Support and Careers Services.


13 : Entry Requirements
Details of entry requirements for the scheme can be found at http://courses.aber.ac.uk


14 : Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
All taught study schemes are subject to annual monitoring and periodic review, which provide the University with assurance that schemes are meeting their aims, and also identify areas of good practice and disseminate this information in order to enhance the provision.


15 : Regulation of Assessment
Academic Regulations are published as Appendix 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/aqro/handbook/app-2/.


15.1 : External Examiners
External Examiners fulfill an essential part of the University’s Quality Assurance. Annual reports by External Examiners are considered by Faculties and Academic Board at university level.


16 : Indicators of quality and standards
The Department Quality Audit questionnaire serves as a checklist about the current requirements of the University’s Academic Quality Handbook. The periodic Department Reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance processes and for the University to assure itself that management of quality and standards which are the responsibility of the University as a whole are being delivered successfully.