BSc (Hons) Psychology (Addiction Psychology)

Addiction psychology is a fascinating specialist area, focused on both substance dependence and other forms of behavioural dependence such as gambling.

This course integrates core areas of psychological knowledge, giving you a deep understanding of the subject. Taught with an applied focus, it will also help you apply your learning in the real world to make a difference to people's lives. Topics include:

• theories of addiction
• the development and maintenance of addiction
• recovery
• treatment
• harm minimization approaches
• prevention strategies

You will graduate with a qualification that reflects your particular interest in psychology. You'll follow the same programme as BSc (Hons) Psychology in the first and second years, but in the final year, you'll specialise in a research project and a specialist module related to psychological aspects of addiction. There is also the opportunity to undertake an assessed placement during your third year, also in an area related to addiction psychology. Modules are 70% assessed by coursework.

Career Opportunities

With an accredited degree and an appropriate postgraduate qualification, you could go on to be a chartered psychologist in health, clinical, forensic, child and educational or occupational psychology. You’re also equipped for a career in counselling, teaching, probation and courts services, market research, HR or business – there’s no such thing as a traditional career path for psychology graduates.

If you do go on to become a chartered psychologist, your everyday duties would vary depending on the speciality. An occupational psychologist works to maximise employee performance and increase job satisfaction; a clinical psychologist makes positive changes in clients’ lives.