Psychology, Criminology and Sociology NPAs NPA

What is special about this course?

These short introductory courses run for either a day or a half day per week and will provide you with a basic introduction to these fascinating subject areas. These courses are suitable for anyone keen to expand their knowledge and will allow you to learn about your chosen subject along with other like-minded students, and lecturers who will bring these subjects to life.

Psychology NPA is an ideal starting point for anyone interested in Psychology or those curious to find out a little more about the subject.

Criminology NPA will look at crime scene evidence, both physical and psychological; and crime in the community: its classification, the role of the media in reporting crime, and how crime is being addressed.

Introduction to Sociology and Anthropology will incorporate Sociology and Social Anthropology, where you will gain an understanding of the influence of cultural background on views of the world, and Culture and Identity.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

NPA Psychology  

• Psychology: Research (J2CY 75)

This unit will provide you with an introduction to the research process, research methods and ethics used in psychology. It covers factors to consider when planning and carrying out psychological research, and will provide you with an understanding of psychological terminology.

• Psychology: Individual Behaviour (J2D1 75)

You'll learn how to use psychology to explain individual behaviour. In this units we'll investigate topics (which might include sleep and dreams; happiness; memory; psychopathology; or others) and learn how these topics can be explained using psychological approaches and theories. You will consider the strengths and weaknesses of the different approaches and theories investigated.

• Psychology: Social Behaviour (J2D375)

You'll learn how psychology helps us understand how people behave in social situations. In this unit, we'll explore a specific topic (such as prejudice, obedience, conformity, or non-verbal communication) and look at how it is explained using different psychological approaches. You'll examine key research studies and begin to think critically about how social factors influence behaviour. You'll also consider the strengths and limitations of the psychological theories and research you study.

NPA Criminology   

• Criminology: Crime Scenes (J48E)

In this unit you will learn about the physical and psychological evidence available at a crime scene. You'll develop an understanding of the different types of physical evidence available, the importance of preserving evidence, and how this evidence is utilised. You will also explore what psychological evidence may be available at a crime scene and how that information can be used to understand the scene. You'll also learn to describe crime scene protocol.

• Criminology: Crime in the Community (48F 45)

This unit will introduce crime in the community: its classification, the role of the media in reporting crime, and how crime is being addressed. You will consider different categories of crime and their relative occurrences within your community. You'll explore how crime is being reported in the mass media and the possible effect that media reporting can have on the perception of crime. You learn about how crime is being addressed through policing and the criminal justice system.

• The History and Development of Criminology ( J48G 45)

You'll explore how ideas about crime and criminals have changed over time. In this unit, we'll look at the key stages in the development of criminology, including early explanations of crime and how society's views of criminals have evolved. You'll learn about influential thinkers and theories, from biological and psychological perspectives to more modern sociological ideas. You'll also start to think about how these theories have shaped the way we understand and respond to crime today.

Introduction to Sociology and Anthropology

• Sociology: Culture and Identity (J2DE 75)

This unit will equip you with a basic knowledge of how to use sociological concepts to explain culture and identity. We'll investigate and explain the relationship between culture and identity and develop skills in collecting, using and communicating information from a range of sources. Learning in this Unit will raise awareness of diversity.

• Social Anthropology: Understanding Our Place in the World (HG1M 45)

A first introduction to the subject of social anthropology, this unit aims to demonstrate the basis of the subject by asking you to think about your place in the world and the different ways in which people might have been brought up. Common influences include family, neighbours and friends, but the names and roles of such people can vary, as can the extent to which they affect daily practices such as diet and dress. The value of objects is a related area which will also be considered, particularly those associated with important events in the life course. Discussing attitudes to difference will also help you identify how basic notions such as dirt and cleanliness, danger and safety, may vary. The chief aim of this unit is to gain an understanding of the influence of cultural background on views of the world.

• Social Issues in the United Kingdom ( J2A5 75)

You'll explore some of the big social issues that affect people's lives in the UK today. In this unit, we'll look at two major topics — like poverty, inequality, housing, health, or education — and investigate their causes and consequences. You'll learn how government policies aim to tackle these issues and compare approaches from different parts of the UK. You'll also develop your skills in using evidence to support your views and in thinking critically about possible solutions to real-world problems.
 

Fees

• Introduction to Psychology (Tues 9am-3.30pm) consists of 3 SQA units and costs £258.
• Introduction to Criminology (Wed 9am -1pm) consists of 2 SQA units and costs £172
• Introduction to Sociology and Philosophy (Thurs 9am – 3.30pm) consists of 3 SQA units and costs £258.

If you are on a low income or in receipt of certain benefits may receive a fee waiver. Please refer to page 2 of our Fees and Funding Guide to see if you are eligible. You can download a FEE WAIVER FORM here.  If you would like help or advice on fee waiver, please contact your nearest learning centre.

If you do not qualify for a fee waiver, you may be able to apply for an Individual Training Account (ITA) to cover up to £200 the cost of this course.

This course is not available to students who require a Tier 4 Home Office visa to study in Scotland (international or EU).