FACULTY OF APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

[Link]. HONOURS PSYCHOLOGY

TUTOTIAL LETTER

CURRICULUM OVERIVIEW

COMPILED BY THABO MADZIBA

FRESH-MAN

SEMESTER 1

BHPS101: Introduction to Psychology

Introduction to the major theories, concepts, and historical developments in psychology. Typically,
a foundational course in a psychology program, providing an overview of the scientific study of
human behavior, mental processes, and experience. Students are introduced to the history and core
principles of psychology, including the major schools of thought and theoretical perspectives,
such as behaviorism, cognitive psychology and Gestaltism .

Skills Developed- Critical thinking, understanding foundational psychological principles.

BHPS102: Introduction to Social Psychology

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Examination of how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual,
imagined, or implied presence of others. The course covers topics such as social cognition, social
influence, pro social behavior, Aggression, attitudes and attitude change, group dynamics, and
intergroup relations. Students will learn about various theoretical perspectives in social psychology,
such as social exchange theory, social identity theory, and self-categorization theory. The course
will also explore social issues such as prejudice, discrimination, conformity, and attribution.

Skills Developed; Analytical skills, understanding of social dynamics and human behavior in social
contexts.

BHPS103: Communication and Study Skills

Techniques for effective written and verbal communication, academic writing, research skills, and
study strategies. a course that helps students develop effective communication and learning skills
necessary for academic and professional success. The course covers various communication skills,
such as active listening, nonverbal communication, and written and oral communication. Students
will learn how to effectively read and comprehend academic texts, how to take notes and organize
information, and how to write academic papers using APA style. The course will also cover time
management, critical thinking, and metacognition.

Skills Developed: Communication proficiency, effective studying techniques, academic research

skills.

BHPS104: Contemporary and Applied Psychology

Overview of how psychological principles are applied in various settings such as clinical,
educational, organizational, and forensic contexts. course that explores current issues and
controversies in psychology, as well as applications of psychological principles in various settings.
The course may cover topics such as positive psychology, health psychology, and environmental
psychology.

Students will examine how psychological research and theory can be applied to address social,
environmental, and personal issues such as well-being, stress, and sustainability. The course will
also explore emerging areas of research and practice, such as cyberpsychology and
neuropsychology.

Skills Developed: Application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, understanding

diverse psychological practices.

BHPS105: Ethics and Professional Practice

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 Ethical principles and professional standards in psychology, including confidentiality, informed
consent, and ethical decision-making processes. course that covers ethical principles and codes of
conduct in the field of psychology. The course covers topics such as professional standards,
confidentiality, informed consent, conflict of interest, and research ethics.

Students will learn about ethical dilemmas in psychology, such as the use of deception in research,
the treatment of marginalized populations, and the influence of culture on ethical decision-making.
The course will also cover the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern the practice of
psychology.

Skills Developed: Ethical reasoning, professional conduct, awareness of ethical issues in practice.

BSSY101: Introduction to Sociology 1

Basic principles and theories of sociology, including the study of social structures, institutions, and
relationships. Topics include culture, socialization, social stratification, and social change.
foundational course in the field of sociology, which studies human behavior and social institutions.
The course introduces students to the key concepts, theories, and research methods of sociology,
with a focus on understanding how societies are structured, organized, and changed.

Topics covered include the sociological imagination, culture, socialization, social stratification,
social inequality, deviance, and social institutions such as the family, education, and the economy.
The course also explores how different social groups, such as gender, race, and class, affect
individual experiences and opportunities.

Skills Developed: Sociological perspective, critical analysis of societal issues

SEMESTER 2

BHPS106: Psychology Concepts, Methods, and Applications

This course is builds on the foundations of the first Introduction to Psychology course (BHPS101).
This course delves deeper into the various topics and subfields within psychology, such as biological,
cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology. Students will learn about key concepts
and theories within these areas, including the biological basis of behavior, human cognition and
memory, lifespan development, social influences on behavior, and the diagnosis and treatment of
mental disorders.

Skills Developed: Research skills, understanding of scientific methodology in psychology.

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BHPS107: Human Diversity

Exploration of the diversity of human experiences and behaviors, including cultural, ethnic, gender,
and sexual orientation differences. Emphasis on understanding and appreciating diversity. This
course that explores the ways in which individual differences in ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability,
age, and other characteristics shape human behavior and experience. The course covers various
theoretical perspectives, including cultural and critical psychology, feminist and intersectional
theories, and disability studies. Students will examine how these theoretical perspectives can be
applied to topics such as identity development, prejudice and discrimination, and social inequality.
The course will also explore the implications of human diversity for research and practice in
psychology.

Skills Developed: Cultural competence, appreciation for diversity.

BHPS108: Computer Applications in Psychology

Use of computer technology in psychological research and practice. Topics include data analysis
software, online research tools, and digital communication platforms. course that introduces students
to the use of computers and software in psychological research and practice. The course covers a
range of software and hardware applications that are commonly used in psychology, including
statistical software such as SPSS, R, and SAS, as well as computer-assisted therapy programs.
Students will learn how to use software for tasks such as data analysis, research design, and
visualization. They will also explore the ethical and practical issues involved in using computer
applications in psychology, including data privacy, security, and access.

Skills Developed: Technical proficiency, data analysis skills.

BHPS109: Introduction to Mathematics

Basic mathematical skills necessary for psychological research, including statistics, probability, and
algebra. course that covers fundamental mathematical concepts and techniques used in psychological
research and practice. The course will introduce students to basic mathematical principles such as
algebra, geometry, and calculus. Students will learn about mathematical formulas, functions, and
equations that are used to describe and model psychological phenomena. They will also develop
skills in data collection, statistical analysis, and mathematical modeling. This course will provide a
foundation for further study in areas such as research and statistics, psychometrics, behavioral
economics, and neuropsychology.

Skills Developed: Quantitative reasoning, mathematical competence.

BHIR110: Principles of Human Resources Management

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Content Fundamentals of human resources management, including recruitment, selection, training,
performance appraisal, and employee relations. course that provides an overview of the theory and
practice of Human Resource Management (HRM). The course covers various aspects of HRM,
including employee recruitment, selection, performance management, compensation, benefits,
training, and development. Students will learn about the role of HRM in organizations and the legal
and ethical issues involved in HRM practices. They will also explore the HRM process, including
job analysis, staffing, training, performance management, and evaluation.

Skills Developed: HR management skills, understanding of workplace dynamics.

SOPHOMORE YEAR

SEMESTER 3

BHPS201: PsychoBiology

Biological foundations of behavior, including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neurochemistry.

Exploration of how the brain and nervous system influence behavior. This course that explores the
biological foundations of behavior and mental processes. This course covers various topics related
to the neural and physiological mechanisms underlying psychological phenomena, including
neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, endocrinology, and genetics.

Students will learn about how different areas of the brain are involved in various psychological
functions, such as perception, emotion, memory, and cognition. They will also explore how
hormones, neurotransmitters, and other biological factors influence behavior and psychological
processes.

Skills Developed: Understanding of biological processes underlying behavior, critical analysis of

biopsychological research.

BHPS202: Child Development

Psychological development from birth through childhood, including cognitive, emotional, and
social development. Theories and research on child development. course that examines the physical,
cognitive, and socio-emotional changes that occur from birth through adolescence. The course will
cover various theories of child development, including Piaget's stages of cognitive development,
Vygotsky's theory of social-cultural learning, and Erikson's stages of psychosocial development.

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Students will learn about the milestones of child development, such as motor development, language
acquisition, and attachment. They will also explore how genetic, environmental, and cultural factors
influence child development.

Skills Developed: Understanding developmental stages, application of developmental theories.

BHPS203: Principles of Learning

Theories and processes of learning, including classical and operant conditioning, observational
learning, and cognitive approaches. Application of learning principles to behavior change. course
that explores how humans and other animals acquire new knowledge and skills, or modify their
existing behaviors in response to experience. The course will cover various learning theories and
processes, such as classical conditioning, operant conditioning, social learning, and cognitive
learning.

Students will learn about the role of reinforcement, punishment, and other environmental
contingencies in shaping behavior, as well as the neural mechanisms underlying learning and
memory. The course may also cover applications of learning principles in fields such as education,
business, and healthcare.

Skills Developed: Analytical skills, application of learning theories.

BHPS204: Introduction to Research Methodology and Statistics

Basics of research design, data collection methods, and statistical analysis in psychology. Emphasis
on developing research proposals and interpreting research findings. In this course, students delve
deeper into research methods and design, data collection techniques, and statistical analysis.

Students learn how to choose the appropriate research method and statistical test based on the
research question, how to select and construct reliable and valid measures, and how to interpret the
results. The course covers statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics,
correlation, regression, and hypothesis testing.

Skills Developed: Research methodology, statistical analysis, critical evaluation of research.

SEMESTER 4

BHPS206: Adolescence and Adult Development

Psychological development during adolescence and adulthood, including identity formation,

relationships, career development, and aging. Theories and research on life span development.
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course that explores the physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional changes that occur during
adolescence and adulthood. The course covers various theories of adolescent and adult development,
including Erik Erikson's stages of psychosocial development, Piaget's formal operational stage, and
Lev Vygotsky's theory of the zone of proximal development.

Students will learn about the challenges and opportunities of adolescence, including identity
development, risk-taking behavior, and peer relationships.

Skills Developed: Understanding developmental changes, application of life span theories.

BHPS208: Personality

Theories and assessment of personality, including psychodynamic, humanistic, trait, and cognitive-
behavioral approaches. Examination of personality disorders and personality development. is a
course that explores the concept of personality and how it influences individual differences in
thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The course covers several different theoretical approaches to
understanding personality, including trait theories, psycho-dynamic theories, humanistic theories,
and biological theories.

Students will learn about key concepts in personality psychology, such as temperament, self-
concept, and individual differences in psychological constructs like extraversion, neuroticism, and
agreeableness. The course may also cover topics such as the Big Five personality traits, personality
disorders, and the role of personality in interpersonal relationships.

Skills Developed : Personality assessment, understanding diverse personality theories.

BHPS209: Cognitive Psychology

Study of mental processes such as perception, memory, attention, language, problem-solving, and
decision-making. Cognitive theories and experimental research. a course that explores the mental
processes involved in human behavior, including perception, attention, memory, language, and
problem-solving. The course covers various theories and models of cognitive psychology, such as
the Modal Model of Memory, the Attentional Network Theory, and the Dual-Process Theory of
Decision Making.

Students will learn about the brain structures and neural networks involved in cognitive processes,
as well as the cognitive biases and heuristics that influence human thinking and decision-making.

Skills Developed: Analytical skills, understanding cognitive processes.

BHIR202: Human Resources Policy and Practice

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 HR policies and practices, including compensation, benefits, labor relations, and compliance with
employment laws. Strategic HR management. course that examines the role of HRM in the
formulation and implementation of HR policies and practices. The course covers topics such as
performance management systems, compensation and benefits, training and development, and
employee relations.

Students will learn how to evaluate and design HR policies that align with organizational goals and
support employee performance and development. The course will also explore the role of HRM in
supporting organizational change, including mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and
globalization.

Skills Developed: HR policy development, practical HR skills

JUNIOR YEAR

SEMESTER 5

BHPS301: Practicum

Work Related Learning provides hands-on experience in a professional setting, such as a mental
health clinic, school, human resources department, community center, or research lab. The course is
designed to give students practical experience in applying psychological principles, concepts and
techniques they have learned in their psychology courses.

Spanning over 2 semesters (12months), students will work under the supervision of an experienced
professional in the field, completing tasks such as conducting client assessments, facilitating group
therapy sessions, or assisting with research projects. The course will also require students to reflect
on their experiences and integrate what they have learned into their professional development.

Skills Developed: Practical experience, professional skills, application of theoretical knowledge.

BHPS302: Sports Psychology

Psychological principles applied to sports and physical activities, including motivation, performance
enhancement, team dynamics, and coping with pressure. This course explores the psychological
factors that influence athletic performance and well-being. Students will learn about the
psychological skills and strategies used by athletes to enhance performance, including mental
preparation, goal setting, and coping with stress and anxiety. The course will also cover topics such
as motivation, self-efficacy, team dynamics, and burnout prevention. In addition, students will learn

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about the role of sports psychology in different settings, such as coaching, athletic training, and
performance enhancement.

Skills Developed: Understanding sports-related psychological issues, application of psychological

techniques to improve performance.

BHPS303: Community Psychology

Role of psychology in addressing community issues, promoting mental health, and enhancing
quality of life. Emphasis on prevention, empowerment, and social change. students will learn about
the development and evaluation of community-based programs and interventions aimed at
addressing social, economic, and environmental issues that impact community well-being. Topics
covered will include community-based participatory research, prevention and intervention
strategies, empowerment and social justice, and policy development and advocacy. This course will
also explore the role of cultural and contextual factors in community psychology, as well as ethical
issues in working with communities.

Skills Developed: Community intervention skills, understanding of social justice issues.

BHPS304: Counselling Psychology

Techniques and theories in counseling practice, including assessment, intervention, and evaluation.
Focus on therapeutic relationships and ethical practice. students will learn about the theories,
principles, and techniques of counseling psychology. The course will cover the history and
development of counseling psychology, as well as different counseling approaches and
interventions. Topics will include the counseling relationship, assessment and diagnosis, treatment
planning, and case management. The course will also explore ethical and legal issues in counseling,
as well as multicultural competence and diversity.

Students will learn about the use of counseling techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy,
person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Skills Developed : Counseling skills, therapeutic techniques, ethical practice.

SEMESTER 6

BHPS305: Consumer Psychology

Understanding consumer behavior and decision-making processes, including perception,

motivation, and influence. Application of psychological principles to marketing and advertising.
course that examines the psychological factors that influence consumer behavior, including decision-
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making, buying behavior, brand loyalty, and advertising. The course covers topics such as consumer
preferences, motivations, and decision heuristics, as well as the role of culture, emotions, and social
norms in consumer behavior.

Students will learn about the role of marketing, advertising, and sales in influencing consumer
decision-making. The course may also cover topics such as consumer research methods, product
development, and pricing strategies.

Skills Developed: Consumer behavior analysis, marketing strategies.

BHPS306: Comparative Psychology

Study of animal behavior and its relevance to human psychology. Exploration of evolutionary and
developmental perspectives on behavior. is a course that examines the similarities and differences
in psychological processes between humans and other animal species. This field of psychology uses
scientific methods to investigate the behavior and mental processes of non-human animals, with a
focus on understanding how these processes evolve and develop in different species.

Skills Developed: Comparative analysis, understanding evolutionary psychology.

BHPS310: Psychology and Law

Intersection of psychological principles and legal systems, including forensic psychology,

eyewitness testimony, and the role of psychologists in the legal process. course that examines the
intersection between psychology and the legal system. Students will learn about the application of
psychological principles and research to legal settings, including criminal justice, civil litigation,
and public policy. Topics will include the psychology of eyewitness testimony, jury decision-
making, forensic assessment, and the psychology of criminal behavior.

The course will also cover legal and ethical issues in forensic psychology, such as insanity pleas, the
use of expert testimony in court, and the admissibility of psychological evidence.

Skills Developed: Legal psychology knowledge, forensic assessment skills.

SENIOR YEAR

SEMESTER 7

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BHPS401: Psychometrics

Techniques for psychological measurement and assessment, including test construction, validation,
and interpretation. Emphasis on reliability and validity of psychological tests. course that explores
the theory and practice of psychological assessment and measurement. The course covers topics
such as reliability, validity, and fairness in psychological testing, as well as the design and use of
different types of assessments, including personality, intelligence, and achievement tests.

Students will learn about the psychometric properties of various tests, such as the Wechsler Adult
Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), and
how these tests are used in clinical, educational, and organizational settings.

Skills Developed: Psychometric analysis, test development skills.

BHPS402: Psychopathology

Study of mental disorders, their symptoms, etiology, and treatment. Exploration of diagnostic criteria
and therapeutic approaches. This course examines psychological disorders, their causes, diagnosis,
and treatment. With references of the Manual Diagnostics Manual (DSM-5) and International
Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) students will study wide range of abnormal behaviors and
mental disorders, including alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety disorders, Phobias, depression,
schizophrenia, affective disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual dysfunction and
personality disorders. The course will delve into theories of abnormal behavior, such as the
biological, psychological, and social models. Students will learn to critically evaluate research on
the etiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders. The course also covers current
controversies in the field, such as the validity of diagnostic categories and the role of culture in
shaping psychopathology.

Skills Developed: Diagnostic skills, understanding of mental health disorders.

BHPS403: Organisational Psychology

Application of psychology in workplace settings to improve organizational effectiveness, including

motivation, leadership, team dynamics, and organizational culture. this course focuses on the
psychological processes and principles that influence workplace behavior and performance. Students
will learn about topics such as job satisfaction, motivation, leadership, decision-making, and group
dynamics. They will also explore how to apply psychological concepts to improve organizational
effectiveness, employee well-being, and productivity.

Skills Developed: Organizational analysis, leadership skills.

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BHPS404: Educational Psychology

Psychological principles applied to education and learning processes, including instructional

design, assessment, and learning theories. covers the psychological processes underlying learning,
teaching, and human development within educational contexts. The course will explore topics such
as cognitive development, learning theories, motivation, and classroom management.

Skills Developed: Educational assessment, instructional strategies.

BHPS405: Principles of Psychotherapy

Various approaches and methods of psychological therapy, including cognitive-behavioral,

psychodynamic, humanistic, and integrative approaches. Focus on therapeutic techniques and
outcomes. this course provides an overview of the major theories and techniques of psychotherapy.
Students will learn about different approaches to psychotherapy, including psychodynamic,
cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and family systems theories. The course will also cover ethical
issues in psychotherapy, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and therapist-client boundaries.

Skills Developed :Therapeutic skills, understanding diverse therapeutic approaches.

SEMESTER 8

BHPS406: Contemporary Critical Psychology

Critical examination of contemporary issues and debates in psychology, including power dynamics,
social justice, and the role of psychology in society.

Skills Developed: Critical thinking, understanding of contemporary psychological issues.

BHPS408: NeuroPsychology

Study of brain-behavior relationships and neuropsychological disorders, including assessment and

rehabilitation of cognitive impairments. students will explore the relationship between brain
structure and function, and how neurological disorders can impact cognitive, behavioral, and
emotional functioning. The course will cover topics such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, brain
imaging techniques, and neurological disorders such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's
disease, and Parkinson's disease. Students will learn about the diagnosis and treatment of
neuropsychological disorders, as well as ethical considerations in neuropsychological assessment

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and intervention. This course will also introduce students to current research in the field, including
emerging treatments for neurological disorders.

Skills Developed: Neuropsychological assessment, understanding of brain function.

BHPS409: Health Psychology

Psychological factors affecting health and illness, including stress, coping, health behavior change,
and the role of psychology in health promotion. this course focuses on the psychological factors that
influence health and illness. Students will learn about the interaction between psychological, social,
and biological factors in health and disease, and how these factors impact health behaviors, health
promotion, and disease prevention. Topics will include stress and coping, health beliefs and
behaviors, chronic illness, pain management, and psychoneuroimmunology.

Skills Developed: Health behavior analysis, health promotion strategies.

BHPS414: Dissertation

Independent research project culminating in a dissertation. Development of research questions, data

collection, analysis, and presentation of findings. course allows students to complete a capstone
project that demonstrates their knowledge and skills in the field of psychology. Under the guidance
of a faculty advisor, students will design and conduct original research, analyze data, and produce a
written dissertation that contributes to the field of psychology. The dissertation is intended to provide
students with an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their
coursework and to develop their expertise in a specific area of psychology.

Skills Developed: Research skills, critical analysis, academic writing

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