The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology offers a comprehensive pathway to advance your knowledge and skills in this dynamic field. This Ofqual-regulated qualification is entirely assignment-based, making it an accessible and flexible option for learners worldwide.
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology is a higher education qualification designed to provide learners with in-depth knowledge of psychological theories, research methodologies, and applications. Equivalent to the second year of a bachelor’s degree, this qualification is ideal for those seeking to progress academically or professionally in psychology and related fields.
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology is a prestigious and flexible qualification that opens doors to numerous academic and career opportunities. Whether you aim to deepen your understanding of psychology, advance in your career, or prepare for further studies, this diploma provides the perfect foundation for success.
OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology comprises twelve mandatory units, totaling 240 credits and requiring 2,400 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT). The recommended Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this qualification is a minimum of 1,200 hours.
To successfully obtain the diploma, learners must complete 240 credits, with 120 credits at Level 4 (covering six units) and 120 credits at Level 5 (covering six units).
All units in this qualification are mandatory.
Level 4 Mandatory units:
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Scope of Psychology | 20 | 100 |
| 2 | Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology | 20 | 100 |
| 3 | Biopsychology | 20 | 100 |
| 4 | The Development of Attachments | 20 | 100 |
| 5 | Processes of Human Memory | 20 | 100 |
| 6 | Research Methods and Investigating Psychology | 20 | 100 |
Level 5 Mandatory units:
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psychological Approaches to Depression and Schizophrenia | 20 | 100 |
| 2 | Individual Differences: Intelligence; Personality and Criminology | 20 | 100 |
| 3 | Visual Perception | 20 | 100 |
| 4 | Social Psychology: pro and anti-social behaviour | 20 | 100 |
| 5 | The Diversity of Addiction | 20 | 100 |
| 6 | Contemporary Issues and Debates in Psychology | 20 | 100 |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on heir studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes of OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology
The Scope of Psychology
- Understand the scope of psychology.
- Understand the theoretical approaches to psychology.
- Understand psychology as a science.
- Understand ethical issues in psychology.
Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology
- Understand the key methodological issues and theorising in social psychology.
- Understand the main theoretical views in cognition and development.
- Understand theories of gender development.
- Understand adolescence as being a time of physiological and behavioural changes.
Biopsychology
- Understand the structure and function of the nervous system and the system’s location in the brain.
- Understand the function of neurons and the process of synaptic transmission.
- Understand ways of studying the brain
- Understand the processes of defending (fight) or running away to safety (flight).
The Development of Attachments
- Understand learning theory of attachment.
- Understand caregiver-infant interactions, reciprocity and interactional synchrony.
- Understand the development of attachment in human and animal studies.
- Understand individual and cultural variations in attachment.
Processes of Human Memory
- Understand the multi- store model of memory, sensory register and short- and longterm memory.
- Understand the working memory model.
- Understand types of long-term memory.
- Understand explanations for forgetting.
Research Methods and Investigating Psychology
- Understand the experimental methods applied in psychology.
- Understand research methods.
- Understand types of data analysis and evaluation.
- Be able to carry out research design and review.
Psychological Approaches to Depression and Schizophrenia
- Understand the diagnosis and classification of schizophrenia.
- Understand therapies for schizophrenia and the role of the clinical psychologist.
- Understand the diagnosis and classification of depression.
- Understand therapies for depression.
Individual Differences: Intelligence, Personality, and Criminology
- Understand how intelligence is conceptualized
- Understand the classification of theories of personality.
- Understand the concepts of criminological psychology
- Understand offender profiling
Visual Perception
- Understand the structure of the visual system.
- Understand theories of visual perception.
- Understand the development of perceptual abilities
- Understand visual perceptual development in the debate of nature v nurture.
Social Psychology: pro and anti-social behavior
- Understand aggression and antisocial behaviour.
- Understand media influences on antisocial behavior
- Understand research studies relating to social psychological theories of aggression.
- Understand human altruism and bystander behaviour.
The Diversity of Addiction
- Understand the concept of addiction.
- . Understand the explanations for substance abuse and dependence.
- Understand the risk factors for addiction.
- Understand approaches to the treatment of drug dependence
Contemporary Issues and Debates Psychology
- Understand codes of conduct and ethical guidelines.
- Understand the role of psychologists.
- Understand bias in psychological research and theory.
- Understand the contribution of debates to the field of psychology.
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology offers numerous advantages for students and professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of psychological principles and advance in their careers.
1. Ofqual-Regulated Qualification
This diploma is regulated by Ofqual, ensuring high academic standards and global recognition. It enhances credibility and opens doors to further studies and career opportunities.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum
The course covers essential psychological disciplines, including cognitive, biological, social, and developmental psychology, as well as research methods and applied psychology, providing a well-rounded education.
3. 100% Assignment-Based Assessment
Unlike traditional programs that rely on exams, this qualification is entirely assignment-based, allowing learners to demonstrate their understanding through coursework, research, and practical applications.
4. Flexible Learning Pathway
With a self-paced study structure, learners can balance education with personal and professional commitments, making it ideal for full-time workers and part-time students.
5. Pathway to Higher Education
The diploma is equivalent to the second year of a bachelor’s degree, enabling seamless progression to undergraduate and postgraduate studies in psychology and related fields.
6. Career Advancement Opportunities
Graduates can explore careers in mental health, counseling, human resources, education, and research, or use the qualification to strengthen their credentials in various psychology-related professions.
7. Practical and Research-Oriented Learning
By focusing on real-world applications and psychological research, the course equips learners with critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills essential for professional success.
8. Global Recognition and Accessibility
As an internationally recognized qualification, the diploma provides learners with opportunities for career and academic progression worldwide. Additionally, it is accessible to students from diverse backgrounds with no strict exam requirements.
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology is designed for individuals who have a keen interest in psychology and aspire to advance their knowledge, skills, and career opportunities in the field. This qualification is ideal for:
1. Aspiring Psychologists
Learners who plan to build a career in psychology and wish to gain a strong academic foundation before progressing to higher education or specialized fields such as clinical, counseling, or forensic psychology.
2. Students Seeking Higher Education Pathways
This diploma serves as an excellent alternative to the second year of a bachelor’s degree, providing a stepping stone for learners who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in psychology or related disciplines.
3. Professionals in Psychology-Related Fields
Individuals already working in mental health, education, human resources, social work, or healthcare who want to enhance their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in psychology for career progression.
4. Career Changers Interested in Psychology
Those looking to transition into a psychology-related profession can benefit from this comprehensive and flexible qualification, equipping them with essential psychological principles and research methodologies.
5. Lifelong Learners Passionate About Human Behavior
Anyone with a genuine interest in understanding human behavior, cognition, emotions, and mental health who wants to develop a deeper insight into psychology without committing to a traditional university degree.
6. Individuals Seeking a Flexible Learning Option
As this qualification is entirely assignment-based, it is ideal for learners who prefer coursework over exams and require a self-paced study option to balance education with work or personal commitments.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to OTHM External Quality Assurance Versifier (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, OTHM will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Psychology
