Psychology Higher
What is special about this course?
Psychology is best defined as ‘the scientific study of the mind and behaviour’ therefore you should have, aside from a basic interest in human behaviour, a good basic grasp of scientific principles and the ability to analyse and evaluate psychological theories and research studies.
The central theme of the course is to enable you to investigate psychological knowledge and research, which promotes your understanding of individual and social behaviour. You will analyse and evaluate concepts and theories, and draw on research evidence to explain human behaviour.
Entry requirements
A good level of English at National 4/5 level.
The course consists of three areas of study:
Individual behaviour
You will analyse individual behaviour, investigate topics and learn how these topics can be explained using psychological theories and research evidence.
Social behaviour
You will analyse how interaction with others shapes social behaviour. You will investigate psychological explanations for social behaviour, and use research evidence to analyse how the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals are influenced by their social environment.
Research
You will understand and apply the research process and research methods used in psychology. You will develop the skills required to conduct and evaluate psychological research.
Equipment
Internet connection and a suitable device with headphones, microphone and camera (minimum spec) is required. Please email us if you have any concerns about connectivity or equipment.
How will I study my course?
- Part Time
- Evening
- Online
- Vocational Pathway
Each week will comprise of scheduled, connected learning time and flexible learning time. You need to commit to both, but you can choose when to complete flexible learning to fit around work, caring and personal commitments. Some flexible learning must be done on a weekly basis.
Connected learning is when you learn together with lecturers, students and others. Connected learning happens at a scheduled time in a practical workshop, an online-classroom, a studio, a specialist classroom, the workplace or in the outdoors.
Flexible learning covers lecturer directed learning and self-directed learning
Lecturer-directed learning is weekly learning activity, for example:
- posting your idea in a discussion forum,
- completing a quiz,
- practising a task, activity or idea
- watching a video or reading,
- discussing and working on a solution with another student,
- researching and gathering information,
- completing an assignment or project-based task.
Self-directed learning is your decision about further study and focus. We encourage you to take ownership of your learning and areas of interest. You can ask us to help you to determine areas for further development.
Your connected learning will take place in an online-classroom. This will include a combination of video conferencing, interactive chat and sharing of presentation slides and other visuals. Online-classrooms provide you with real time interaction, contact and discussion with your lecturer and fellow students. We have ten college centres and there may be an option to study some of the time from your local centre. This will depend on social distancing limitations.
How long will my course last?
1 Academic YearWhere can I study my course?
- From anywhere with an internet connection including your local college centre
Please note, UHI West Highland will be changing its name to UHI North, West and Hebrides in August 2023, subject to Scottish Government approval. This will not impact on your choice of course or how and where you will study.
Start date
September
Fees
| Scottish Fee | RUK* Fee | International Fee |
|---|---|---|
| £360.00 | £1200.00 | £1200.00 |
Funding
A Fee Waiver or funding of up to £200 could be available to help with payment of course fees, depending on your personal circumstances.
This support will be available for people who are 16 or over, living in Scotland and either in low paid work or actively seeking work. To be eligible, you must have income of £22,000 a year or less, or be on certain benefits.
You will also not be undertaking any secondary, further or higher education, SDS funded training or participating on the Community Jobs Scotland programme.
Please contact your local college centre for more information about eligibility, or call us on 01397 874000.
What can I do on completion of my course?
Higher Psychology provides suitable preparation for entry to higher education courses in psychology or further study in other academic and vocational subjects. Examples are sciences or Social Science at HNC or degree level. The varied skills, knowledge and discipline offer students preparation for careers in research, teaching, chartered psychology (forensic, clinical, educational, occupational) or other employment.
Is there more information available online?
You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.
Apply for Higher Psychology
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI West Highland. Please note, UHI West Highland will be changing its name to UHI North, West and Hebrides in August 2023, subject to Scottish Government approval. This will not impact on your choice of course or how and where you will study. UHI West Highland operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.