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PMNM14
Contemporary Issues in Medical Science
This module will allow students to choose from a range of short contemporary topics in Medical Sciences including screening for new therapeutic compounds, using model systems to understand human disease and disorders, using behavioral tools and open-source analysis software to answer contemporary questions in neuroscience such as how defects in genes or drugs influence behavior. There will also be the opportunity to select introductory journal club or lean sessions with potential dissertation supervisors. The focus on techniques is complemented by seminars on the ethics of human and animal studies. Each topic will be approximately 1 day and students will be able to pick 4-5 topics.
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PS-D01
Research Project
The research module will involve constructing and executing a substantial research project, usually conducted in connection with a topic / theme relevant to the overall masters programme. Capitalising the on the links between the course and local services, there may be opportunities to conduct research within partner organisations (e.g. NHS trusts, mental health charities, forensic units) as well as undertaking research based on topics generated by academics based within the department of psychology. We also encourage students who come to the program with connections as a consequence of previous professional experience, to undertake projects that are linked to interests they have already established. For students on BPS accredited masters programmes, the dissertation will take the form of an empirical research project involving primary data collection and submission of an individual ethics proposal.
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PS-M007
Clinical aspects of brain and behaviour through the lifespan
This module focuses on the interplay between neurological changes and traumatic experiences as a key field in understanding and interpreting behaviours across the lifespan. This involves exploring how behavioural and cognitive mechanisms underlying adaptive function are impacted by events such as adverse childhood experiences, neurodevelopmental brain insults, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative problems. The aims are both achieving a detailed understanding of clinical presentations, and targeting appropriate interventions for each case. Students will learn about the functional anatomy of the human brain (both limbic and cortical areas), how these regions are implicated in behavioural and cognitive regulation, and how such information informs methods of clinical psychology. Students will also be introduced to key clinically-based theories underpinning our understanding of neuropsychological syndromes, such as aphasia, amnesia, ASD, and attachment disorders. Additionally, they will learn about the drivers of rehabilitation methodologies available for such populations, and the means by which appropriate interventions can be selected.
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PS-M69
Experimental Design II: Brain Recording
Brain recording, specifically electroencephalography (EEG), provides the means to directly monitor and measure electrical activity of the brain over time. The module provides a comprehensive overview of the use of such methodology as part of cognitive neuroscience research. Topics covered during the module include: rationale for the use of EEG and effective experimental design, distinctions between the various techniques and the inferences each method enables us to make, practical considerations when running brain recording research, and analysis of the results. The module builds upon the Experimental Design I module.
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PS-M69I
Experimental Design II: Brain Recording
Brain recording, specifically electroencephalography (EEG), provides the means to directly monitor and measure electrical activity of the brain over time. The module provides a comprehensive overview of the use of such methodology as part of cognitive neuroscience research. Topics covered during the module include: rationale for the use of EEG and effective experimental design, distinctions between the various techniques and the inferences each method enables us to make, practical considerations when running brain recording research, and analysis of the results. The module builds upon the Experimental Design I module.
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PSY114
Individual Differences and Clinical Psychology
This module examines (i) individual differences and (ii) clinical psychology , or psychopathology. Theoretical accounts for psychological constructs relevant to individual differences and clinical psychology will be examined along with the psychological research of measurement and assessment of psychological constructs. Historical approaches to the measurement of individual differences in psychology will be critically explored, alongside a evaluative discussion of the role of genes and environment in shaping psychological outcomes. Then focusing on clinical psychology the module will examine how we define `atypical¿ behaviour, along with the explanations of such behaviour. The symptoms of some of the principle disorders of behaviour will be delineated.
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PSY331
Cognitive Neuroscience in Clinical and Forensic Settings
This module focuses on behavioural and neuroimaging correlates of inhibition/interference, a cognitive neuroscience topic central to clinical disorders (e.g. mood), as well as forensic disorders (e.g., sex offenders/paedophilia, antisocial personality disorder/psychopathy). These are disorders commonly encountered in clinical and forensic settings and together with their neural abnormalities are central to this course. The confounding influence of factors such as alcohol/substance abuse and gambling behaviours on neural abnormalities will also be discussed. Because the relationships between these disorders are discussed across lectures, several lectures feature for example some sexual offending against adults/children which could trigger emotional reactions.
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PSY332
Contemporary Issues in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice
This module explores how psychological principles are applied to address contemporary challenges within the criminal justice system. It explores topics such as mental health, traumatic brain injury, neurodiversity, and psychopathy, focussing on their implications for offending, sentencing, and offender management. Broader societal issues, including cybercrime, online misogynistic ideology, radicalised communities, and wellbeing in custodial settings, are also addressed. By combining theoretical insights with real-world applications, the module equips students with critical knowledge and analytical skills needed to engage with evolving debates and practices in forensic psychology. Designed to remain flexible and responsive to emerging priorities, it provides a flexible framework for exploring the dynamic interplay between psychology and the criminal justice system.
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PSY340
Understanding Neurodiversity
The module explores the origins of neurodiverse traits, developmental and diagnostic factors, evolving public perceptions, common comorbidities and what educational, employment and health related support neurodivergent groups may require. Students will examine the balance between treatment and acceptance and critique how social, medical and neurodiversity models frame neurodivergent conditions. The potential for new neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs) awaiting formal classification is also discussed, with students evaluating evidence for these emerging groups.
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PSY340I
Understanding Neurodiversity (IST)
The module explores the origins of neurodiverse traits, developmental and diagnostic factors, evolving public perceptions, common comorbidities and what educational, employment and health related support neurodivergent groups may require. Students will examine the balance between treatment and acceptance and critique how social, medical and neurodiversity models frame neurodivergent conditions. The potential for new neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs) awaiting formal classification is also discussed, with students evaluating evidence for these emerging groups.
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PSY363
Wellbeing Across the Lifespan
With increasing longevity resulting in greater emphasis on ageing well, this module will equip students with knowledge relating to physical and mental health, cognition, nutrition, sleep, and exercise across the lifespan (offering increased depth beyond that provided in existing developmental modules). Core content will be discussed alongside perspectives on adaptive elements of behaviour change and the importance of developing sustainable approaches to successful ageing.
