Diploma of Higher Education in Psychology
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
2 - 4 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
This diploma provides an accessible and engaging introduction to studying psychology. You'll learn about core areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology. You'll explore a range of research methods used by psychologists and conduct psychological research of your own, writing up the associated research reports as part of your assignments. You’ll see how psychologists use evidence to contribute to debates on ageing, crime, education, employment, forensic science, mental health and relationships; and choose options to suit your particular interests.
Key features of the course
- Explores different areas of psychology and how psychologists investigate the human mind and behaviour
- Options include childhood studies, counselling, social sciences, or sport and exercise psychology
- Develops analytical and communication skills and your ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Builds a solid foundation for further study.
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two-thirds of the BSc (Honours) Psychology (Q07).
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The Diploma of Higher Education in Psychology uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- working in a group with other students
- using and producing diagrams or screenshots
- undertaking practical work
- finding external/third party material online
- some modules may require you to use specialist software (for example SPSS software for statistical analysis).
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- At Stage 1 you can choose between an introduction to the social sciences or childhood studies. You’ll follow this with your first core psychology module.
- At Stage 2, you’ll choose one module from a range of complementary topics and complete your diploma with a second core psychology module.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.