Diploma in Psychology

Admission Requirements

• Typical Age: 18+
• Prior Qualifications:  A minimum of a Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
• International Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may include:
  • High school diplomas or equivalent secondary qualifications in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): IELTS 6.0, CEFR level B2, or equivalent.
• Additional Guidance : For assistance with qualification equivalency or language requirements, please contact our admissions office.

Structure of the Qualification

• Total Credits: 120 ECTS
• Modules: Six mandatory modules, each worth 20 credits, providing comprehensive coverage of core psychology topics.

Core Modules

1. The Scope of Psychology (20 Credits): Provides a foundational overview of psychology, tracing its historical roots, scope, and the development of key theoretical approaches.
2. Social and Developmental Psychology (20 Credits): Covers social psychology theories, such as conformity and obedience, and developmental psychology concepts related to cognitive growth and family influences on childhood.
3. Biopsychology (20 Credits): Focuses on the structure and function of the nervous system, synaptic transmission, and the physiological basis of the “fight or flight” response.
4. The Development of Psychological Attachments (20 Credits): Explores attachment theories, caregiver-infant relationships, and how cultural and individual differences impact attachment patterns.
5. Processes of Human Memory (20 Credits): Examines memory models, types of memory, and the role of memory in witness reliability, along with theories of forgetting.
6. Research Methods and Investigating Psychology (20 Credits): Introduces research methodology, statistical analysis, and ethical guidelines, with a focus on the British Psychological Society’s (BPS) Code of Ethics.

Explore the complete curriculum for this course to gain a detailed understanding of the topics covered, learning objectives, and key skills you'll develop. Click here to access the full curriculum.

Assessment and  Regulations 

Assessment Approach

Assessments are conducted through a combination of written assignments, practical tasks, and case studies. Methods include:

• Written Assignments: Each unit includes assessments focused on applying psychological concepts and theories.
• Research Projects and Case Studies: Practical exercises and real-world scenarios to strengthen research design and analytical skills.

Grading System

Grades are awarded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction:

• Pass: 40%-59%
• Merit: 60%-69%
• Distinction: 70% and above

Completion Requirements

Learners must pass all six units by achieving at least 40% in each assessment. All assessments undergo internal and external moderation by Awarding Body to ensure quality and compliance with assessment standards.

Professional Development and Progression

Progress to Higher-Level Study:

• Advance to our progression course, the Level 5 in Psychology**
• Advance to our progression course, the Level 5 in Education and Training**
• Second-year entry to undergraduate psychology-related programs, subject to university requirements.

Work-Based Learning:

Assignments and case studies simulate real-world psychology settings, helping learners develop professional competencies and apply their learning in practical contexts.

**When you enrol in our Level 4+5 bundle, you’ll start on the same course pathway for both levels. The possible pathways shown here are for reference only. If you wish to change your Level 5 route after registration, just reach out to Student Services—we’re here to guide you toward the best fit.