Studying Psychology
There are many benefits to studying Psychology at third level whether you are interested in progressing to train as a psychologist or using it as a pathway to further education. Here we will outline just some of the reasons why a qualification in psychology will benefit you in your future career and personal life.
Why Develop Subject-Specific Knowledge
Our BA (Hons) in Psychology is offered as a three-year full-time degree or as a four year part-time degree both of which are accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), the learned and professional body for psychology and psychologists in the Republic of Ireland. Throughout the course of this undergraduate programme you will study and develop subject-specific knowledge in areas including; cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, biopsychology, experimental psychology, psychoanalysis and much more. This knowledge will equip you with a detailed understanding of the scientific and theoretical underpinnings as well as the many applications of Psychology.
We also offer a Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology which is a two year programme also accredited by Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). This course is designed for non-psychology graduates and those seeking to pursue a professional career or postgraduate study in psychology. The course enables students to study key areas of psychology in a thriving research environment and, through a supervised research dissertation, explore practical issues of interest and relevance to a range of theoretical and occupational fields. Students will develop a firm knowledge base in psychology and gain experience of the research process that will build upon the skills and knowledge that they have already acquired in earlier studies.
Develop The Ability to Research
The ability to research a topic or issue confidently and effectively is a transferable skill valued in any industry. Through the completion of specified course projects and assignments students develop the skillset to evaluate and appraise their sources and present findings in a clear and concise manner.
Should you decide to deviate from your Psychology studies after graduation, the learned research skills you acquired will stand to you and help with reviewing tenders, appraising potential projects, exploring new expansion opportunities etc.
Refine Your Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is a cornerstone in the practice of psychology and psychotherapy. Students must learn to develop a robust ability to critically analyse a situation. Every theory, reference and source of information is analysed and considered. They are cautious intellectuals who will consider every possibility and outcome before making a move – a valuable asset to have in your arsenal.
Greater Understanding of Human Relationships
Studying psychology instils a deeper awareness and understanding of human behaviour, and of the human condition. Psychology students understand the gap between the real authentic self, the perceived self and the self we present to the world. This knowledge and heightened awareness allows psychology students to be effective in relationship building and relationship management. They understand relational dynamics and so fare well in business, HR, and managerial roles.
Grow your Communication Skills
Effective communication is central to the role of a psychologist or those working within the psychology sphere. Students of the discipline are high functioning communicators. Studying a psychology qualification will help you improve your communication skills – both written and verbal.
Improve your Employability
A psychology qualification can boost your CV and earning power. Those with an undergraduate psychology degree are not limited to the confines of the discipline either; this versatile area of study has many applications and can lead to many rewarding careers in a variety of sectors.
Learn to Better Understand Human Behaviour
Delving into the various schools of psychology helps to curate a greater appreciation for human behaviour, the influence of culture and changing perspectives. Psychology as a discipline forces students to look at themselves and question their own life experiences, biases and prejudices. This self-awareness helps students to better understand themselves, others and the external world around them.
Develop a New Perspective on Mental Illness
Continuing in the same thread as the previous point; psychology is central to the treatment of behavioural problems and conditions. BA (Hons) in Psychology or our Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology courses offered at DBS will enable you to better understand mental illness and be able to decipher between a syndrome, a disorder and a disease. You will realise the complexities and variants of mental distress from anxiety to depression to schizophrenia. You will also be acutely aware of how prevalent mental illness is; affecting all demographics and social classes in society and the workplace.
Career Opportunities within Psychology
To start your career in psychology a postgraduate qualification is normally required (if graduates are to find work as professional psychologists). Such courses can be at Master’s degree, Higher Diploma or Doctorate level, with further time investment necessary. The following specialist areas can be studied:
-
Clinical Psychology
-
Counselling Psychology
-
Educational Psychology
-
Forensic Psychology
Graduates are also eligible to undertake many postgraduate courses and/or research in related areas such as social and cultural studies or health sciences.
Types of Psychology courses offered at DBS
are Our BA (Hons) in Psychology is offered as a three-year full-time degree or as a four year part-time degree both of which are accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) the learned and professional body for psychology and psychologists in the Republic of Ireland. Throughout the course of this undergraduate programme you will study and develop subject-specific knowledge in areas including; cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, biopsychology, experimental psychology, psychoanalysis and much more. This knowledge will equip you with a detailed understanding of the scientific and theoretical underpinnings as well as the many applications of Psychology.
We also offer a Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology which is a two year programme also accredited by Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). This course is designed for non-psychology graduates and those seeking to pursue a professional career or postgraduate study in psychology. The course enables students to study key areas of psychology in a thriving research environment and, through a supervised research dissertation, explore practical issues of interest and relevance to a range of theoretical and occupational fields. Students will develop a firm knowledge base in psychology and gain experience of the research process that will build upon the skills and knowledge that they have already acquired in earlier studies.
Interested in studying Psychology? Register for our next Online Open Event, or visit us at our Aungier Street building in Dublin open from Monday - Friday between 8:45am and 5:15pm, a member of our admissions team will be on hand to discuss the study options and courses available to you.
Alternatively, you can contact us by phone on +353 1 417 7500.