A distance learning course. Total period of study: approx. 6 to 9 months

Cost: £195.00  (195 Pounds Sterling - for currency conversion see www.xe.com )

A FREE textbook (approx. 380 pages) will be sent to UK students.

Non-UK students will normally have to purchase the book on-line from an internet bookstore. 

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Course introduction

Positive Psychology is the psychology of personal growth, happiness and positive personal qualities. The history of clinical psychology shows a preoccupation with mental illness and disability and treatments for psychological problems. Positive Psychology is a new direction in psychology that looks at how we can feel positive emotions such as happiness and hope, and how we can foster creativity and wisdom. This course uses a key textbook that surveys the research done in this exciting new area and the theories that have emerged. Key concepts are explained and there are guides to further reading both of an academic and a self-help nature. Students are encouraged to answer self-reflective questions as well as to appreciate academic knowledge. Examples are given of how psychologists apply these principles and there are recommendations for how positive psychology can change clinical practice and ultimately help to change society for the better.

Please note that this course is not related to HNC/HND or NVQ qualifications. It not a preparation for entry to British universities and is not a path towards UK Chartered Psychologist status. It is a private qualification aimed at the helping professional in private practice, those who already have the core qualifications for their career, or those interested in the subject. 

 Syllabus (this syllabus is subject to change):

Psychology of happiness
Psychology of flow
Psychology of hope and optimism
Emotional Intelligence
Psychology of creativity and wisdom
Personality and positive traits
Self-esteem and the positive self
Psychology of positive relationships
Steps and processes of positive change/ helping and psychotherapeutic relationships

A university-level textbook is required as the main book for the course. Further reading is optional though comprehensive reading lists are given, enabling you to pursue further studies at your leisure.

Method of assessment

Continuous assessment - there is no final exam.  Students will be asked to write brief essays after reading certain chapters. 

Web research

For those students with access to the Internet, there is a vast number of  authoritative websites with information on psychology, personal growth and other relevant subjects.

Entry qualifications

No particular qualification is required for entry.  However the student should have a high standard of written English, the ability to cope with technical vocabulary, and should be able to cope with scientific textbook material.  Some previous knowledge of psychology will be an advantage.

Certification and further study.

A certificate suitable for framing will be issued to successful graduates. 

Since this is not a practitioner diploma, it is not geared towards entry to a professional society.

This diploma carries credit towards a distance degree from Calamus International University in counselling psychology and related fields. (CIU is a non-UK, private, unaccredited university.)

Note: details of the course, fees, textbooks, syllabus and other information are subject to change at any time.

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