Course Description
Do you want to help people suffering with addiction to change their lives? This course in the psychology of substance abuse could help you channel your interest into a challenging, rewarding career.
This particular course of study is based on one of the longest established psychology courses in the UK, which has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) since 1986. Furthermore, this substance abuse degree is the only BSc Psychology course in the UK accredited by both the BPS and the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Practitioners (FDAP).
The expertise of our teaching staff and the support they are able to give to students are major benefits of the course. You will study with tutors who have extensive backgrounds in the field, including research into alcoholism, binge drinking and other forms of addiction.
Course Content
On this substance abuse psychology course you will learn about addictive behaviours and develop the skills to interview those suffering with addictive behavioural problems.
Access to specialist software and equipment will help you to develop your research and analysis skills. You will learn actively by using:
- SuperLab and EPrime computer experiment-generator software
- Biopacs
- eye-tracker
- validated cognitive abilities test batteries
- psychology questionnaires.
As part of your experiential learning, you will apply theoretical knowledge gained on the course to the world of work and real-life experiences. You may undertake this element of the course in areas such as:
- drug and alcohol treatment
- smoking cessation services
- homeless services
- mental health
- victim support.
Through our strong connections with Recovery Intervention Service Ealing (RISE) and Ealing Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services, you can gain valuable experience as a volunteer. Some of our graduates have been offered paid work after volunteering with these organisations.
We will use a range of teaching methods to give you the most rewarding learning experience. Your can expect to engage in:
- lectures
- seminars
- workshops
- industry guest-speaker events
- visits to drug and alcohol treatment services
- small learning groups
- experiential and practical learning.
Entry Requirements
112-120UCAS points requiredfrom level 3 qualifications
These can include:
- A Levels at grade B, B and C, or above
- BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Merit, Merit
- Access to HE Diploma
You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents
Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.
Level 5 (year 2) entry
To directly enter the second year of this course you need 120 credits at Level 4 of a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course. Find out more about our processes for recognising prior learning.
Level 6 (year 3) entry
To directly enter the third year of this course you need 120 credits at level 4 and 120 at level 5 of a BPS accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 and Level 5 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course.
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