BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies at Bishop Grosseteste University is a three-year program that combines the study of psychology with a focus on early childhood development. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology and its theories, while also learning about the specific needs and challenges of young children. The program features a small group size, allowing for close student-tutor interaction and personalized feedback. Graduates can pursue careers in various fields, including psychology, early childhood education, teaching, and social work.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies is a three-year undergraduate program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior. It also introduces students to aspects of education, health, and social care, with a specific focus on children from 0 to 8 years of age.

Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology and its core domains.
• Develop an understanding of the development of children from 0 to 8 years of age.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Gain hands-on experience through placements and projects.

Program Description:

The program combines the study of psychology with a focus on early childhood development. Students will explore various psychological theories and research methods, while also learning about the specific needs and challenges of young children. They will gain experience in observing and interacting with children in different settings, and develop the skills necessary to work effectively with them.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Researching Psychology I: Introduction to core areas and methods in psychology.
• Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Developmental psychology across the lifespan.
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): History and origins of psychology.
• Policy, Provision and Practice: Historical and current approaches to early years policy and provision.

Year 2:

• Personality and Individual Differences: The structure of human personality and individual differences.
• Social Psychology: Social behavior and interaction.
• Researching Psychology II: Advanced research methods and statistical techniques.
• Promoting Positive Behaviour: Theories and practices for promoting positive behavior in young children.
• The Value of Play: The role and importance of play in early childhood development.

Year 3:

• Understanding Childhood: Philosophical, sociological, and psychological perspectives on childhood.
• Safeguarding children: Policy and practice regarding safeguarding and child protection in early childhood settings.
• Psychology Dissertation: Research project applying knowledge and skills gained throughout the program.
• BioPsychology: The biological basis of behaviors, emotions, and mental health.
• Cognitive Psychology: Key constructs and methodologies in cognitive psychology.
• Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: Design and development of a research project for the dissertation.
• Global and Future Childhoods: Challenges and possibilities of global and future childhoods.
• The Young Child in Transition: Supporting Change and Promoting Resilience: Supporting children through transitions and promoting resilience.
They include:
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Displays
• Written essays
• Group discussions
• Practical projects
• Examinations

Teaching:

Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Practical workshops
• Coursework
• Work-based placements
The program features a small group size, allowing for close student-tutor interaction and personalized feedback. Staff are research-active and incorporate their expertise into teaching, providing students with a current and relevant learning experience.

Careers:

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Psychology
• Early childhood education
• Teaching
• Social work
• Play therapy
• Special educational needs
• Research
• Human resources management

Other:

• The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• Students have the opportunity to participate in placements to gain practical experience.
• The program is offered full-time.
• The starting date is September.
• The program is taught at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln.