Study the aetiology of mental health problems, as well as assessment and diagnosis. We'll take an explicitly critical approach to diagnosis of mental health problems, by considering not only the biological risk factors, but giving more attention to the psychological and sociocultural risk factors. You'll explore the current debates and controversies around diagnosis, drawing on psychiatric, psychological and sociological theories, taking a critical biopsychosocial approach to understanding the aetiology and diagnosis of mental health problems. You'll also explore the process of assessment in clinical psychology that takes into consideration psychological and sociocultural factors, such as gender and culture. Delivered through lectures that will involve both taught content and interactive discussion, you'll be assessed through one coursework assignment. You'll develop an understanding of mental health problems and their diagnosis, essential if you're considering further professional training and careers in clinical work with adults.
View the full module definitionThis module is designed to help introduce you to the theoretical and practical complexities of the research process. The module will cover both qualitative and quantitative techniques, and it is aimed as a series of taster sessions. If you feel any of the techniques suit your research, your supervisor, and expert members of staff, will help you learn more about your chosen technique. Research training in the form of literature searching, constructing literature reviews, communicating and publicising your work will also be covered. Additional areas to be covered in this module include: the research process, research techniques, research ethics and scientific writing skills.
View the full module definitionThis module aims to provide students with knowledge about the formulation and treatment process of different mental health problems in adults. The module covers an assortment of approaches used in formulation, including for example the broader biopsychosocial approach and specific approaches such as cognitive behavioural. Students will also learn about an assortment of therapeutic interventions relating to adult mental health difficulties alongside formulation. Students will also learn about professional practice issues including supervision, professional registration and ethics. The module will be delivered through lectures that will involve both taught and interactive discussion and two workshops where students will apply theoretical knowledge to developing basic counselling/communication skills. Focus on the importance of the therapeutic relationship will be emphasised in both lectures and workshops. The module is assessed through a combination of two coursework assignments and observation. The module provides an opportunity to understand theoretical aspects, challenges and the practicalities in formulation and treatment in clinical psychology, which will be useful for students considering further professional training and careers in clinical work with adults.
View the full module definitionThis module requires you to undertake a significant research project in the chosen field of study and to present the results of that research in a thesis prepared to the highest scientific professional standards. The research will normally be based on preparatory work undertaken in modules: Issues in Psychological Research and either Quantitative Research Methods or Qualitative Research Methods. The topic may be drawn mainly from a selection of suggested topics related to School research groups (professional subject of interest will be considered provided that a strong case is made and suitable supervision is available). The project topics will be assessed for suitability to ensure that it has the potential for sufficient academic challenge. You will be assigned a supervisor, or, if appropriate, a supervisory team. You'll be expected to make regular reports on the state and progress of your work. These reports will normally be in a written format suitable for incorporation into the final thesis.
View the full module definitionEntering higher education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all our students to make the most of the opportunities higher education provides, reach your potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You'll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you'll explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where you collect knowledge and complete mini tasks. You'll proceed at your own pace, though we you to have completed your Into ARU exploration by week 6. If for any reason you're unable to complete by that date, we'll signpost to existing services so that we can be confident that you are supported.
Develop an understanding of the most commonly used statistical techniques used in psychological research. This module develops a critical understanding of the principles of data collection and analysis for psychology of various quantitative methods. Practical issues surrounding statistical procedures are delivered in computer practical sessions. These will involve real-world research questions being presented to students. Example data sets will be provided and analysed. You will be required to analyse additional data sets independently and submit these for assessment. The statistical methods taught have been directed by the Economic and Social Research Council's Postgraduate Training Guidelines (4th and 5th editions). These will be written up in APA format, required by psychologists. The course will be delivered through lab-based practical sessions. The module will equip you with a wide range of highly useful transferable, research and analysis skills (such as numerical skills, use of SPSS, IT skills, experimental design, and presentations) which are highly relevant in the employment environment.
View the full module definitionThis module will advance your knowledge of research methods for study at postgraduate level. Throughout, you’ll be encouraged to develop a more autonomous and critical approach to research. You’ll be challenged to develop your research philosophy, consider the impact research can have on society and effectively analyse data using a range of statistical and analytical techniques relevant in sport and exercise or psychological research. This module will help you become a critical researcher, to be able to draw conclusions using multiple sets of data, effectively compare and contrast data and use literature to support ideas and / or theories. You'll use real world research questions, with example datasets provided to facilitate your understanding of statistics and qualitative analysis through a combination of lectures, practical sessions and online tasks. This module will equip you with a wide range of highly useful and transferable research and analytical skills (e.g. numerical skills, use of research software, experimental design, presentations), which are highly relevant in the research and employment environment.
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