Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Psychology

This Postgraduate Diploma is ideal for graduates wishing to undertake advanced study in a humanities or social science specialisation. A graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts will have an advanced level of knowledge in one discipline or area of specialisation cultivated over a full year of study or equivalent. During this time they will have developed such skills as: the ability to analyse and evaluate academic literature in that area the ability to synthesise information and communicate their findings in both oral and written form self-directed learning and intellectual independence. Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and associated biological, cognitive, and social processes in humans and other animals. It is a rapidly developing field touching on all aspects of human life. Advances in neuro-imaging and molecular biology are rapidly enhancing our understanding of how the brain works, while increasingly complex theories are being developed to understand behavioural development of individuals and groups. Major advances are being made in understanding and treating psycho-pathologies such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addictions. Psychology students are trained to: think independently and critically about psychological issues become knowledgeable about the key methods, important findings, and major theories of psychology learn how to distinguish genuine findings from implausible and suspect claims understand modern scientific research in psychology. Study Involve: UC offers a balanced and comprehensive set of courses, excellent opportunities to undertake work in experimental psychology, and has nationally and internationally recognised postgraduate applied programmes in Industrial and Organisational Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Child and Family Psychology, and Clinical Psychology (leading to professional registration as a psychologist). UC has more than 25 specialist academic staff offering a diverse range of research and teaching options. You can become involved in research projects and may make significant contributions to the discipline. Te Kura Mahi a-Hirikapo, School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing provides modern computer-based laboratories; excellent digital recording and editing equipment; an extensive library of psychological tests; and laboratories for human performance, human-robot interaction, animal behaviour and neuroscience, perception and cognition, and social, developmental, and applied psychology. UC has a Psychology Clinic where clinical students receive training, and has working relationships with Te Poari Hauora o Waitaha, Canterbury District Health Board, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa, Department of Corrections, offering opportunities for research and clinical internships.