Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology

This four-year, level 8 degree provides graduates with a broad and comprehensive foundation in Psychology—the study of human behaviour and the mind.

We will examine a diversity of interesting questions at the core of psychological research, such as:

• Why does conflict happen, and how can we build positive relationships?
• How do children learn language?
• How do prejudices develop?
• How can we improve our decision making?
• How can individuals with psychological diagnoses be supported?
• How does the brain process and store memories?

You will focus on psychology throughout the entirety of your degree, giving you a strong foundation that will pave the way for your future in the discipline.

A major attribute of this programme is the work placement in Year 3, which provides you with hands on experience of the application of psychology.

In Year 4, students complete a research project in their chosen area of interest – integrating knowledge gained across the 4 years.

Accreditation

The degree has been designed to align closely with the requirements of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), providing a broad base in the core areas of biological psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, individual differences and research methods.

We aim to receive PSI accreditation before the first student cohort finish, which will enhance career opportunities for graduates.

The degree provides a strong foundation for further training as a professional psychologist in disciplines such as:

• clinical psychology
• counselling
• educational psychology
• sports psychology
• neuropsychology

You will also be equipped with transferrable skills which can be used in a variety of people-focused careers, such as Human Resources, market research and media.

Garda Vetting

Garda Vetting is required for this programme.

Work Placement

In Year 3 of the programme the student will go on work placement. The aim of the practice placement is to provide a practical and professional complementary component to the student’s academic understanding of psychology in practice.

It will also offer the student the experience of appreciating how psychology is interpreted in professional, social and community environments.

The practice placement offers the student the opportunity to learn and acquire personal and professional skills relevant to the pursuit of graduate employment and further training or study.

Contact

Dr Elaine McHugh, Email: Elaine.McHugh@atu.ie