Diploma in Psychology

Admission Requirements

• Typical Age: 18+
• Entry Point: Learners enrol at Level 4. Completing Level 4 then meets the entry requirement for the Level 5 stage.
• Prior Qualifications: A minimum of a Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
• International Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may include:
  • High school diplomas or equivalent secondary qualifications in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS 6.0, CEFR level B2, or equivalent.
• Additional Guidance: For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

• Total Credits: 240 ECTS (120 ECTS at Level 4 and 120 ECTS at Level 5)
• Modules: 12 mandatory modules, six at each level, each worth 20 credits.

Level 4 Core Modules

1. The Scope of Psychology (20 Credits): Provides a foundational overview of psychology, tracing its historical roots, scope, and the development of key theoretical approaches.
2. Social and Developmental Psychology (20 Credits): Covers social psychology theories, such as conformity and obedience, and developmental psychology concepts related to cognitive growth and family influences on childhood.
3. Biopsychology (20 Credits): Focuses on the structure and function of the nervous system, synaptic transmission, and the physiological basis of the “fight or flight” response.
4. The Development of Psychological Attachments (20 Credits): Explores attachment theories, caregiver-infant relationships, and how cultural and individual differences impact attachment patterns.
5. Processes of Human Memory (20 Credits): Examines memory models, types of memory, and the role of memory in witness reliability, along with theories of forgetting.
6. Research Methods and Investigating Psychology (20 Credits): Introduces research methodology, statistical analysis, and ethical guidelines, with a focus on the British Psychological Society’s (BPS) Code of Ethics.

Level 5 Core Modules

1. Psychological Approaches to Depression and Schizophrenia (20 Credits): Examines mental health conditions, diagnostic criteria, and treatment methods, with a focus on depression and schizophrenia.
2. Individual Differences: Intelligence, Personality, and Criminology (20 Credits): Explores theories of intelligence, personality traits, and criminological psychology.
3. Visual Perception in a Psychological Context (20 Credits): Investigates the psychological principles of visual perception and its applications.
4. Social Psychology: Pro and Anti-Social Behaviour (20 Credits): Studies factors influencing social behaviour, including the psychology of pro-social and anti-social actions.
5. The Diversity of Addiction (20 Credits): Analyses addiction types, causes, and treatments, covering substance use and behavioural addictions.
6. Contemporary Issues and Debates in Psychology (20 Credits): Engages learners in contemporary discussions and ethical considerations in psychology.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you’ll develop. See the full curriculum below.

View Curriculum

Assessment and Regulations

Assessment Approach

Assessments at both levels combine written assignments, practical tasks, and research, designed to evaluate comprehension and application of psychological principles:

• Written Assignments: Required for each module to assess theoretical understanding and practical application.
• Case Studies and Projects: Practical tasks using real-world examples to strengthen research design and analytical skills.
• Research Reports: In-depth research and analysis to support advanced understanding of topics.

Grading System

Grades are awarded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction:

• Pass: 40%-59%
• Merit: 60%-69%
• Distinction: 70% and above

Completion Requirements

Learners must pass all twelve units by achieving at least 40% in each assessment. All assessments undergo internal and external moderation by the Awarding Body to ensure quality and compliance with assessment standards.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• Direct entry to the final year of a Bachelor’s degree in psychology or related fields at various universities, depending on institutional requirements.

Employment Opportunities:

This programme prepares learners for roles such as:

• Assistant Psychologist
• Mental Health Support Worker
• Addiction Support Specialist

Work-Based Learning:

• Assignments and case studies simulate real-world psychology settings, equipping learners with relevant skills for both further studies and professional careers in psychology.

When you enrol in our Level 4+5 bundle, you’ll start on the same course pathway for both levels. If you wish to change your Level 5 route after registration, just reach out to Student Services—we’re here to guide you toward the best fit.

View Progression Routes