Graduate Diploma

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

To enter onto the Graduate Diploma course you must have a first degree (BA/BSc or equivalent) with a classification 2.2 or above. Your first degree can be in any discipline but must include the equivalent of six months (60 credits) full-time study in psychology.Some knowledge of quantitative skills (e.g. in mathematics, statistics) is required.

This course is also suitable for those students who have obtained a Psychology degree to the required standard, but one that is not recognised by the BPS, and wish to gain an internationally recognised basic qualification in psychology.

If your first language is not English you must provide evidence of English language proficiency. The required standard is IELTS 7, TOEFL 600 (paper) or 250 (computer-based)). If your English does not quite reach this standard it may be possible to take a pre-sessional course which will bring your English up to the required standard.

In addition, for overseas students we recommend a 1-month pre-sessional course which will introduce you to the rigorous learning and assessment required by the University of Essex. This preparation will help you adjust to a new academic environment and study effectively from the very beginning of a demanding course. In some cases the Department may require applicants to take a 1-month presessional course.

SCHEME STRUCTURE

The scheme consists of nine courses of which six are compulsory courses at level two and two courses are chosen from those available at level three. You will also attend the Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology course throughout the year and complete a Research Project in the summer term.

Students will take the following courses over the first two terms:

3rd year options - TWO OPTIONS FROM LIST BELOW

The Graduate Diploma will provide you with substantial knowledge in the core areas of psychology, as required by the BPS. You will learn a range of research methods that will allow you to carry out and interpret simple but effective empirical investigations, and you will develop the practical skills and awareness of ethical issues required in professional research. You will practice these skills in carrying out a research project under supervision. The scheme will also provide you with an opportunity to develop skills in numeracy, information technology, communication and literacy.

GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN PSYCHOLOGY

The Graduate Diploma in Psychology is a one-year, full-time conversion degree scheme that provides eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society (BPS), a professional qualification which is the first step on the path to working as a professional psychologist. Passing this scheme demonstrates that you have studied and passed modules in the core areas of psychology to an equivalent of first degree level.

The scheme provides you with a sound understanding of the key areas in and the research methods that are used by psychologists whilst also allowing to specialise in elected modules.