PSY-30158 - Module Specification
School of Psychology
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

How can we use health psychology to make a difference to people's lives? This module will give you knowledge and skills in health psychology, focusing on illness and how people cope with a range of health conditions. We cover the psychological effects of these conditions on all those living with them, including patients, family and carers. We will include different health conditions such as cystic fibrosis, dementia, IBD. You will be able to choose your own health condition(s) to plan a health intervention to make a difference to the lives of those living with that condition.

This module aims to develop students' knowledge and understanding of psychological aspects of health issues. Students will acquire and review the theoretical underpinnings of health psychology and how these relate to practice within specific health areas. They will be helped to apply their knowledge by designing a theoretically and empirically motivated health intervention, which will enable them to appreciate the relevance of health psychology issues for different populations.

Intended Learning Outcomes

critically appraise and assess the quality of relevant literature within specific areas of health research in psychology: 1
apply key theories and models of health psychology to a specific practical issue: 1
design a health intervention which serves to address the needs of a specific population experiencing a health-related condition: 1

Study hours

12 hours seminars and support sessions
38 hours asynchronous tasks
100 hours background reading and coursework preparation

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment