Course Catalogue

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This module provides a broad-based understanding of classic and contemporary theory and research in the Physiological Psychology.

Fortnightly

Standard University entry requirements for Post-graduate courses apply.

For MSc Psychological Science 2:1 honours degree in a science subject.

none

100% examination. Students will be asked to respond to 1 out of 3 questions.

This course provides a broad-based understanding of classic and contemporary theory and research in Physiological Psychology including, the development of the nervous system; the biological basis of human and non-human animal behaviour, typical and atypical neuropsychology; evolutionary theories of behaviour; the roles of hormones, genetics and epigenetics in behaviour; critical evaluation of cognitive neuroimaging techniques.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically consider how the structural components of neurones contribute to cellular communication and human and non-human animal behaviour

■ Using evidence from typical and atypical neuropsychology, critically consider how brain regions and networks are specialised and contribute to the biological basis of behaviour.

■ Critically evaluate how biological theories (e.g., natural selection, sexual selection, inclusive fitness) can inform questions about both human and non-human animal behaviour

■ Critically evaluate the evidence for genetic and hormonal influences on behaviour

■ Develop critical thinking about the use of specific techniques to solve a given problem in cognitive neuroscience

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.