Bachelor Of Arts Honours In Psychology

The academic Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology programme is aimed at providing students with advanced theoretical knowledge and applied skills within the field of psychology.

Students enrolled in the programme will extend their undergraduate knowledge through the integration of theoretical knowledge with the development of social science research competencies and practical skills.

The programme will focus on further developing students’ critical-analytical and problem-solving skills within the discipline, with application to the South African context.

Admission Requirements:

• A candidate must have complied with all the requirements of an appropriate undergraduate degree, or equivalent, before the beginning of the academic year for which he/she has been selected
• Third year in Psychology must have been passed with a minimum of 70%
• As per the RPL Policy, no more than 10% of applicants who do not have the necessary 70% grade for third year in Psychology (or equivalent) can be admitted into the programme, if they have obtained work or life experience which qualifies them to be admitted as post-graduate students. Those applicants who have a 65-69% Psychology III (3) average will need to complete and submit a written academic assignment as part of their application to be considered for acceptance to the programme.
• Two references are required from professionals to whom the candidate is not related. At least one must be from a Psychology professional e.g. Psychology Faculty, Psychologist, Registered Counsellor or Social worker.
• A candidate must complete the Psychology Honours Personal Statement Form.

Programme Specific Outcomes:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of psychological theory and biological influences on behaviour
• Demonstrate systematic thinking about selection of techniques for various research scenarios
• Develop comprehension of the theoretical traditions within qualitative research
• Demonstrate the ability to execute the techniques of analysis covered in the programme
• Explain and assess how developmental, cultural, socioeconomic, and gender factors affect the clinical diagnosis and conceptualisation of psychopathology
• Develop conceptual and procedural knowledge of the descriptive nosological system that is codified in the DSM-V 
• Demonstrate an advanced understanding of ethics in psychology
• Develop an understanding of the history of community psychology and apply perspectives within a South African context
• Address psychosocial challenges affecting South African communities
• Apply critical thinking skills in the assessment and resolution of community mental health needs
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of therapeutic modalities
• Demonstrate critical thinking about the applicability of western models to the multicultural South African context
• Engage critically in current debates on the use of different interventions, modalities and theoretical perspectives in psychology
• Work effectively with other professionals in a team setting.