What is special about this course?

Psychology is defined as 'the scientific study of mind and behaviour'.  Throughout the course you will develop knowledge and understanding of concepts, theories and research studies.  By the end of the course, you will be able to explain, evaluate and analyse both individual and social behaviours.  This understanding will further your knowledge of factors influencing behaviour and be useful on both a personal and professional level/

Entry requirements

2 National 5's (including English)

Adult learners will be considered without these qualifications

Research Methods:

In this unit you will learn about the research process and methods used in psychology.  You will learn about the different stages of research, explore experimental and non-experimental methods, sampling and the importance of ethics within psychology.  You will also gain an understanding of the numerical skills needed to design and conduct a psychological study and develop report writing skills.

Individual Behaviour:

The mandatory topic is Sleep and Dreams.  In addition, a second optional topic will be taught from memory or stress.  Here you will develop knowledge and understanding of psychological theory, approaches and how our psychological knowledge can be applied to improve health and wellbeing.

Social Behaviour

The mandatory topic is Conformity and Obedience.  In addition, the optional topic of Prejudice will be taught.  By the end of the topic, you will be able to explain, evaluate and analyse to what extent people's thoughts, feelings and behaviours are influenced by the social experiment.  We will also explore how our psychological knowledge in this area can be applied to improve health and wellbeing.

Fees

Full time

If you are studying a full time Further Education course (NCs, NQs etc.) the College claims your fees from the Scottish Funding Council for students who are under 18 on the first day of the course. Students over the age of 18 on the first day of the course have to apply to Orkney Islands Council (OIC) for a tuition fees bursary.

Information on the tuition fees bursary is available on the OIC website.

Part time

Normally you are responsible for your course fees but if you are in receipt of certain benefits you may be eligible for a Part Time Course Fee Waiver. Not all part-time courses at Orkney College UHI are covered by the Fee Waiver Scheme and only certain benefits are acceptable as a basis for a Fee Waiver. Please contact the college to enquire.

If you are eligible, you may be entitled to an ILA of up to £200 a year towards a course.