Psychosocial Studies (Graduate Certificate)

Program Overview

The Psychosocial Studies Graduate Certificate from Birkbeck, University of London explores the relationship between individual and social factors through the lens of psychoanalysis and social theory. The program equips students to analyze psychosocial phenomena and prepares them for further postgraduate study or careers in fields such as mental health, education, and social research. The program is offered part-time and consists of two 30-credit modules, each assessed by a 3000-word essay.

Program Outline

Psychosocial Studies (Graduate Certificate) - Birkbeck, University of London

Degree Overview:

• Introduction: This program introduces students to strands of psychosocial theory, exploring the relationship between the development of subjectivity and identity, and social and political formations.
The focus is on psychoanalysis and social theory.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip students to identify and analyze psychosocial phenomena, including violence, war, trauma, terrorism, intimacies, communities, care, human rights, agency, resistance, and personal and social transformations.
It also seeks to advance study skills and provide the intellectual and academic foundation for further postgraduate work in psychosocial studies. The program typically takes one to two years to complete and comprises two, three, or four modules at the final-year undergraduate degree level, with a total value of 60, 90, or 120 credits.

Outline:

• Content: The program focuses on the interrelationship of individual and social factors through the lens of psychoanalysis and social theory.
• Structure: The program consists of two 30-credit modules:
• Psychoanalysis:
Explores the core concepts and theories of psychoanalysis, including the unconscious mind, repression, transference, and the Oedipus complex.
• Social Theory: Examines different theoretical approaches to understanding the relationship between individuals and society, including Marxism, feminism, and post-structuralism.
• Modules: Each module involves one 3000-word essay.
• Schedule: The program is offered part-time, on evenings once a week from October to April.

Assessment:

• Method: Assessment for each module is based on a single 3000-word essay.
• Criteria: Essays are evaluated based on their analytical depth, critical engagement with relevant literature, clarity of argument, and originality of thought.

Teaching:

• Methods: The program employs a combination of lectures and seminars.
• Faculty: Birkbeck faculty members are experts in their respective fields of psychoanalysis and social theory.
• Unique approaches: The program encourages students to actively participate in discussions and debates, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Careers:

• Potential Paths: Graduates of the program can pursue careers in mental health, education, social research, international development, conflict resolution, human rights, or the cultural industries.
• Possible Professions: Examples of potential job titles include counseling psychologist, further education lecturer, human resources officer, social researcher, or psychotherapist.

Other:

• Birkbeck institutes: Students have access to three research institutes relevant to the program: the Birkbeck Institute for Social Research, the Birkbeck Institute for the Humanities, and Birkbeck Gender and Sexuality (BiGS).
• Additional support: The program provides support services such as academic skills workshops, writing centers, and mental health counseling.

Fees:

• Part-time home students: £3,600 per year
• Part-time international students: £6,610 per year

Admission Requirements:

• Minimum second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
• Relevant work experience may be considered for applicants without a first degree.

Application:

Part-time home students: £3,600 per year Part-time international students: £6,610 per year