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Course Overview

Ever find yourself in a “what are they thinking about” situation? This course gives you the perfect platform to delve deep into the human mind and discover what makes people tick. 

 

You will be equipped with a broad foundation in the study of human behaviour and mental processes and learn how individuals think, communicate and interact with one another.

 

With a strong focus on people, the curriculum will prepare you for a rewarding career in the social service and special needs education sectors. You will also enjoy the flexibility to choose elective subjects in areas you are more interested in. 

 

With intimate knowledge of the human mind, you are in the best position to improve the lives of many.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for consideration for admission, applicants must obtain 26 points or better for the net ELR2B2 aggregate score (i.e. English Language, 2 relevant subjects and best 2 other subjects, including CCA Bonus Points) and meet the minimum entry requirements of this course. CCA cannot be used to meet the minimum entry requirements.

Subject
Grade

English Language (EL1)*

1-6

Mathematics (E or A)

1-7

Any one of the subject in the 1st group of relevant subjects for ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type

  • Art
  • Business Studies
  • Combined Humanities
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Higher Art
  • Higher Music
  • History
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in English)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Chinese)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Malay)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Tamil)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, History)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Geography)
  • Intro to Enterprise Development
  • Literature in English
  • Literature in Chinese
  • Literature in Malay
  • Literature in Tamil
  • Media Studies (English)
  • Media Studies (Chinese)
  • Music
1-6
2024 Planned Intake
70
Net ELR2B2 aggregate range (2024 JAE)
3 - 9

* Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM)/ Unified Examination Chinese (UEC) holders must have a minimum of grade 6 for the relevant English Language subject (e.g. Bahasa Inggeris).

Admissions Exercises

What You'll Learn

As freshmen, students read a series of introductory subjects such as Foundation Psychology, Introduction to Research Methods & Statistics, and Introduction to Social Service to orientate them to the academic and applied domains of psychology.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2017 Cognitive Psychology

This subject explores two main thematic areas of human information processing, namely, perception and cognition. You will explore topics such as sensory perception, attention, learning and memory, knowledge structure, language, judgment and decision making in order to enhance your understanding of how human beings perceive and process information.

4
GPS2007 Developmental Psychology

This subject examines theories and methodologies covered in developmental psychology. You will explore and gain a deeper understanding of how people change at each developmental phase as a result of interaction between innate factors and external experiences.

4
GPS1001 Foundation Psychology

This subject provides you with an overall perspective and understanding of psychology as a scientific study of mental processes and human behaviour. Fundamental concepts, theories and methodology in the study of psychology will be explored to enhance your understanding of the biological, cognitive and social bases of behaviour.

4
GPS1021 Introduction to Research Methods & Statistics

This subject aims to provide you with an overview of research methodology and statistical tools in the social sciences. This will include an introduction to the enterprise of scientific research, research ethics, and also rudimentary research methods and statistical concepts, in order to prepare students for more advanced research methods subjects.

4
GPS1020 Introduction to Social Services

This subject provides a broad introduction to the social services sector in Singapore, including the special needs education sector. You will be introduced to the social services landscape including the key agencies in the sector, as well as the issues and challenges faced within this sector.  

4
GPS2005 Social Psychology

This subject is about the scientific study of the interactions between people and the social contexts they live in. Through exploring real-world social events and situations, you will gain a deeper appreciation of how people’s thoughts, emotions and behaviours are influenced by other people.

4
GPS1007 Survey & Qualitative Research Methods

This subject builds upon your foundational understanding of statistical concepts and data analysis methods. It equips you with the knowledge, skills and techniques, as well as hands-on experience in the conduct of empirical and qualitative research in psychology and the social sciences.

4

Students conduct two research projects, one involving survey design and the other an experimental design. Students are expected to review academic literature, design the research study, collect data from research participants, conduct data analysis and report their findings.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2025 Applied Psychology Project A (Survey Design)

Psychology is not just a theoretical subject. It holds valuable and practical applications across a wide range of personal, interpersonal and professional settings. This subject allows you to apply previously learnt psychological techniques and research skills in a survey research project to better understand individuals in an applied setting. 

4
GPS3016 Applied Psychology Project B (Experiment Design)

This subject builds on skills and experience gained from earlier project work-related subjects. More opportunities will be provided for you to explore the various fields in psychology and apply psychological knowledge in greater depth. You will be required to conduct an experimental research project from a range of relevant topics.

4
GPS2014 Contemporary Issues in Psychology

This subject involves seminars and workshops conducted for deeper study and inquiry into special topics exploring the application of psychology in specific settings such as personal, social and organisational settings. Supervised by staff or guest lecturers who are experts in their fields, the subject is designed to encourage research as well as the intensive study of specific topics and areas that could vary depending on resources and expertise.

4
GPS2021 Counselling Psychology

This subject aims to provide an introduction to the field of counselling psychology. You will learn about the fundamentals of counselling and discuss the theoretical perspectives that guide the work of counselling psychologists. You will also explore contemporary issues that influence the counselling profession, including ethics, assessment and working with diversity, and to learn about special approaches and settings for counsellors.

4
GPS2028 Experimental Design & Statistics

This subject equips you to address more complex research questions using an expanded range of research designs and statistical techniques. You will be given opportunities to apply knowledge, skills and techniques and employ statistical software to analyse and interpret data from a range of psychological experiments.

4
GPS2024 Group Work: Processes & Facilitation

This subject equips you with the knowledge and skillsets necessary to develop and carry out group work sessions in the context of the social service sector.

4
GPS1022 Introduction to Special Needs Education

This subject provides you with an introduction to the range of special needs and types of disabilities encountered in the special needs education sector. It equips you with foundational understanding necessary to build towards higher-order skillsets in the areas of classroom management and the development of interventions for people with special needs.

4

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2010 Health Psychology

This subject examines the impact of mental, emotional and behavioural factors that affect the onset, duration, recovery and prevention of physical illnesses. You will also learn to analyse health and disease issues using psychological principles and techniques in the context of an interrelated and diverse world.

4
GPS3003 Abnormal Psychology

This subject explores concepts and issues surrounding abnormal behaviour and illnesses. You will explore major theories on how physiology, cognition, developmental, social and other issues influence behaviour. You will also be provided with an overview of intervention methodologies and techniques commonly used in the treatment of maladaptive behaviours and psychological disorders.

4
GPS3015 Deviant Behaviour & Rehabilitation

This subject focuses on raising awareness of the theoretical, psychological and developmental perspectives on deviant behaviour. In addition, it examines the psychological factors that relate to crime on a general level, specific offences and also specific offender and victim groups. You will learn to evaluate the contribution of psychology to the explanation of deviant behaviour in a multi-disciplinary framework. You will also gain an understanding of the Singapore prisons and rehabilitation system.

4

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2026 Classroom Management & Strategies in Special Needs Education

This subject presents an overview of the types of teaching and intervention approaches in managing people with different types of special needs. It also explores teaching strategies to support learners with various special education needs.  

4
GPS2027 Assessments & Interventions in Special Needs Education

This subject covers the different types of assessments, and guidelines for their use in the context of special needs education. The subject also explores different programming strategies and interventions to support learners with various special needs.

4
GPS3012 Evidence-Based Strategies in Special Needs Education

This subject will provide you with the opportunity to apply evidence-based strategies in developing appropriate interventions, training or educational materials in special needs education. You will work with an actual industry partner to meet a specific industry need in the special needs sector.

4

Applied subjects occupy students’ final year of study. Students will engage in community-based projects in the social service sector, understand the applications of Psychology in the workplace and commence their final year project. The diploma ends with a 16-week internship.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS3014 Community Psychology

This subject helps you understand the ecological interaction between individual, group, organisational, community and societal factors and their effect on the health and affective well-being of all members of a community. It will also introduce you to the theories and paradigms of research and action, promotion of psychological resilience and prevention of mental health problems, based on community psychology perspectives.

4
GPS3013 Industrial & Organisational Psychology

This subject provides you with opportunities to apply psychological knowledge, research methods and intervention strategies within industrial and organisational settings. You will explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of personnel and organisational psychology. Learn about how psychology can help people become more effective at the workplace. 

4
GMP3002 Major Project

The major project is intended to complete your training by providing a real-world experience to integrate and apply your knowledge in a practical learning situation. Besides research, design and project management skills, the emphasis will also be on innovation, creativity, teamwork and enterprise.

8

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2010 Health Psychology

This subject examines the impact of mental, emotional and behavioural factors that affect the onset, duration, recovery and prevention of physical illnesses. You will also learn to analyse health and disease issues using psychological principles and techniques in the context of an interrelated and diverse world.

4
GPS3003 Abnormal Psychology

This subject explores concepts and issues surrounding abnormal behaviour and illnesses. You will explore major theories on how physiology, cognition, developmental, social and other issues influence behaviour. You will also be provided with an overview of intervention methodologies and techniques commonly used in the treatment of maladaptive behaviours and psychological disorders.

4
GPS3015 Deviant Behaviour & Rehabilitation

This subject focuses on raising awareness of the theoretical, psychological and developmental perspectives on deviant behaviour. In addition, it examines the psychological factors that relate to crime on a general level, specific offences and also specific offender and victim groups. You will learn to evaluate the contribution of psychology to the explanation of deviant behaviour in a multi-disciplinary framework. You will also gain an understanding of the Singapore prisons and rehabilitation system.

4

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GPS2026 Classroom Management & Strategies in Special Needs Education

This subject presents an overview of the types of teaching and intervention approaches in managing people with different types of special needs. It also explores teaching strategies to support learners with various special education needs.  

4
GPS2027 Assessments & Interventions in Special Needs Education

This subject covers the different types of assessments, and guidelines for their use in the context of special needs education. The subject also explores different programming strategies and interventions to support learners with various special needs.

4
GPS3012 Evidence-Based Strategies in Special Needs Education

This subject will provide you with the opportunity to apply evidence-based strategies in developing appropriate interventions, training or educational materials in special needs education. You will work with an actual industry partner to meet a specific industry need in the special needs sector.

4

You will also take this set of subjects that equips you with the crucial 21st-Century life skills you need to navigate the modern world as an agile, forward-thinking individual and team player.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
GIP3005 Student Internship Programme

This structured programme is designed to link your learning with the real work environment. You will be placed in organisation(s) with opportunities to apply the concepts and skills acquired in the course of your study. Besides reinforcing technical concepts and mastering of skills in areas that you have been trained, the practical training will enable you to build important skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and to cultivate good attitude and a strong work ethic.

12
GTX1001 Effective Communication

This subject introduces the fundamentals of effective communication. It also covers how to communicate with and convince an audience through writing and speaking tasks. The skills in this subject will include the application of strategies for communication, appropriate vocabulary, language features, visual aids, tone and style. The Message, Audience, Purpose and Strategy (MAPS) framework will also be applied when planning and engaging in written and verbal communication.​ There will be opportunities to communicate and collaborate through active learning activities, apply digital and information literacy skills and build competence through self-directed learning.

3
GTX1002 Professional Communication

This subject covers professional communication skills for the workplace and employability skills in the areas of career preparation. It covers communication and interpersonal skills, including effective virtual communication etiquette, and conducting oneself professionally in the workplace. In addition, essential career preparation skills such as resume writing and interview skills, needed to seek and secure work would be included. The Message, Audience, Purpose and Strategy (MAPS) framework would also be applied when engaging in written and verbal communication. There will be opportunities to communicate and collaborate through active learning activities, apply digital and information literacy skills and build competence through self-directed learning.

3
GTP1301 Current Issues & Critical Thinking

This subject covers current issues, including diverse local and global concerns, that will impact lives and may have critical implications for Singapore. There will be opportunities to build competence through self-directed learning, communicate and collaborate in active discussions and objectively analyse issues using digital and information literacy skills and critical thinking scaffolds.

3
GTP1201 Career Readiness

This subject focuses on personal management skills. It develops an understanding of one’s career interests, values, personality and skills for career success. It covers the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to succeed in the workplace and achieve professional goals. There will be exposure to apply digital and information literacy skills, build competence through self-directed learning methods, and acquire the skills of being a lifelong learner.

1
GTP1202 Career Management

This subject focuses on career management skills. It covers the importance of workplace readiness skills to adapt and respond to the changing job market environment. Career ownership and continuous learning for lifelong employability will be emphasised. There will be exposure to apply digital and information literacy skills, build competence through self-directed learning, and acquire the skills of being a lifelong learner.

1
GGS1002 Global Studies

This subject provides essential skills and knowledge to prepare students for an overseas experience. They will examine the elements of culture and learn the key principles of cross-cultural communication. In addition, they will gain an appreciation and awareness of the political, economic, technological and social landscape to function effectively in a global environment. The subject prepares students to be responsible global citizens and leaders who can contribute to the global community through effective communication and collaboration.

3
GTP1302 Guided Learning*

The subject introduces students to the concepts and process of self-directed learning in a chosen area of inquiry. The process focusses on four stages: planning, performing, monitoring and reflecting. Students get to plan their individual learning project, refine and execute the learning plan, as well as monitor and reflect on their learning progress and project. The learning will be captured and showcased through a curated portfolio. The self-directed learning project will broaden and/or deepen a student’s knowledge and skills. Students will enhance their problem solving and digital literacy skills through this subject.

3
GIN1001 Innovation & Entrepreneurship

The subject is designed for learners from all disciplines to embrace innovation in either their specialised field or beyond.  Learners will be taught to apply the Design Thinking framework to develop problem statements, ideate and identify feasible solutions. Learners will be exposed to several tools for prototyping. In addition, commercial awareness will be imbued in learners through various innovation and entrepreneurship concepts or tools. This subject also prepares students to be self-directed lifelong learners who are digital and information literate. It nurtures communicative and collaborative citizens who can use objective analysis in problem-solving.

2
GTP1101 Leadership Fundamentals

This subject focuses on self-leadership based on the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility. Increasing awareness of self and others will lay the foundations for personal and relationship effectiveness. Consequential thinking, clear articulation of personal values and visions, emphatic listening, and collaboration in serving others are some of the essential skills covered in this leadership journey. There will be opportunities to build and to apply the concepts of being a values-centred leader.

2
GTP1102 Leadership in Action

This subject focuses on Service Learning as an experiential platform to apply the tenets of Self and Team Leadership. Service Learning will be the capstone project for this subject, which will require an analysis of the diverse needs of the community, collaboration with community partners and demonstration of learning, including key elements of empathy. There will be opportunities to build and to apply the concepts of being a values-centred leader.

1
LSW1002 Sports & Wellness

This subject reinforces the fundamental knowledge learnt on health, fitness, exercise and sports. Hands-in time will be allocated for a greater variety of fitness exercises and sports skills in a recreation setting. In addition, theoretical knowledge such as sports safety and risk management when participating in physical activities will be introduced. Guidance will be provided for improvement of physical fitness, acquiring of sports skills and relating theoretical knowledge to the physical activities.

2
TGS1001 Sustainability & Climate Action*

This subject prepares students to be responsible global citizens and future leaders who can contribute to the global community.  It introduces the topics of sustainability and explores how human societies can act to build a sustainable future. This subject focuses on the impact of climate change, potential solutions to climate change, and the future of the green economy from global and local perspectives.

3

* Students must choose to take either Sustainability & Climate Action or Guided Learning.


Graduation Requirements
TP Fundamentals subjects
min 36 credit units
Diploma Core subjects
min 72 credit units
Diploma Elective subjects
min 12 credit units
Total Credit Units Completed
min 120 credit units

Career Prospects

With Diploma in Psychology Studies:

With University Degrees in Psychology:

Life @ Psychology Studies

PSY x AWWA Inclusion Resource Centre Collaboration

In April 2022, School of Humanities & Social Sciences students from the Diploma in Psychology Studies collaborated with AWWA Inclusion Resource Centre to develop and curate resources which promote a better understanding of inclusion and inclusive practices. Students were able to apply their knowledge learnt in the subject, Introduction to Social Services, through this collaboration. We are heartened that the students now have acquired a deeper and more meaningful knowledge on what inclusion is, and how they can take the first steps to foster a more inclusive society. Together, everyone can play a part in making our home a more inclusive one for all.

 

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Course Review

Find out what our graduates have to say about this course. 

Course Fees

PET Course Fee

Main

The table below shows the total subsidised fees (inclusive of GST) payable. 

ADMITTED INSINGAPOREANS
(Age below 40 in the year 2021) 
SINGAPORE PERMANENT RESIDENTSINTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
2023S$3,086.50S$6,317.10S$12,042.20
2022S$3,076.05S$6,306.50S$11,638.20

 

WHEN DO I PAY?

There are 2 semesters in each Academic YEAR (AY). The billing periods for AY 2023/2024 are:
Semester 1:  17 April 2023 – 15 October 2023 
Semester 2:  16 October 2023 – 14 April 2024

Fees are billed and payable by semester. They are usually payable in June for Semester 1 and December for Semester 2.

MORE DETAILS ON FEES AND FINANCE

View course fees for other intakes, subsidies, grants, bursary and awards at the Fees & Financial matters section. 

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