Addiction and Mental Health - MSc

Year 1 modules include:

Addiction Psychology (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• autumn semester - Thursday afternoon

This module provides a broad introduction to the epidemiology, prevalence, description, diagnoses and theoretical models of the aetiology of addiction.
The module aims to:

• critically examine definitions, descriptions and classifications of addiction.
• examine in detail and critically assess the contribution of the developmental stages of addiction
• critically evaluate major psychological theories and vulnerabilities in the aetiology of addiction

Law, Policy and Ethics (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• spring semester - Thursday afternoon

This module allows students to explore the relationship between key aspects of the law, rights and code of professionals’ ethics within mental health. This module will look at the science base behind legal and policy developments across a range of mental health problems.

Neuroscience of Addiction and Pharmacotherapy (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• spring semester - Thursday morning

This module focuses on the neuroscientific explanations for addiction and the action of drugs in the nervous system. This module aims to:

• • examine the action(s) of substances in the brain
• • examine and evaluate the use of animal experiments in addiction theorey and studies
• • examine neural mechanisms that are involved in the addiction process and treatement
• • investigate the contribution of genetics to addiction

Psychopathology (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• autumn semester - Thursday morning

This introductory module will focus on the theoretical explanations of psychopathology from a biological, social, behavioural and cognitive perspective across the lifespan. Using formal classification systems including the DSM-5, it will provide an eclectic and multidisciplinary approach to understanding psychopathology. Various theoretical frameworks in both understanding and management of psychological problems will be explored.

Research Design and Analysis for Psychology (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• autumn semester - Wednesday morning

The module is designed for inclusion in postgraduate psychology courses where students entering the course have some experience of psychology and research methods, but less than would normally be expected from a BPS accredited degree in psychology. The aim of this module is to introduce students to general principles of research design and the epistemological issues associated with different approaches. Student will be introduced to a range of methods for data collection and analysis including both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Research Project (core, 60 credits)

This module currently runs:

• summer studies

This module supports the process of planning and executing a research project.

Treatment Interventions (core, 20 credits)

This module currently runs:

• spring semester - Wednesday morning

This module is aimed at developing students’ professional skills in motivational interviewing and positive psychology which may support their current working practices and/or assist develop their employability skills. The module presents, discusses, and evaluates critically evidence-oriented interventions for substance misuse and psychological distress. Motivational interviewing and positive psychology, which are evidence-based interventions, will be described, evaluated, and, illustrated with targeted clients. Clients in this context will include students’ only. For students with no core psychology/healthcare training additional training would be necessary to pursue a clinical/counselling career.

Assessment

The course is assessed through a variety of methods that will allow you to demonstrate your academic knowledge and gain career-ready skills.
You'll be assessed through essays, case studies, oral presentations, critical and systematic reviews, qualitative and quantitative research reports.