Bachelor program. Psychology and Psychotherapy (B.Sc.)

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1 health economics culture Bachelor program Psychology and Psychotherapy (B.Sc.)

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3 Perception, experience and action The new degree program Psychology and Psychotherapy (B.Sc.) offers a unique combination: a broad foundation covering basic knowledge in psychology as well as a specialization in clinical psychology and psychotherapy. It targets applicants who are especially interested in theory, practice and research of the clinical aspects of psychology and who intend to work as psychological therapists. In accordance with the tradition of Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H), the focus is on a holistic view of what humans perceive and experience, and how they act. This approach finds expression in the multitude of perspectives on methods taught and studied in psychotherapy: the new program covers concepts of behavioural therapy, methods of natural science as well as psychodynamic and humanistic approaches, and the roots of psychology coming from the liberal arts and humanities. Accredited by: Supported by: Lehrinstitut Bad Salzuflen, Zentrum Aus bildung Psychotherapie

4 Course contents The Bachelor program is a basic course of study which is completed with a first degree in psychology that qualifies its holders to take up a profession. It conveys scientific principles and specialized knowledge of psychology as well as methodological and practical competences pertaining to the field of clinical psychology. The first year covers basic modules in psychology and methodological training. In the second year these basic subjects overlap with modules on clinical psychology and diagnostics which also serve as initial preparation for the internship. This overlapping structure facilitates cross referencing between modules and promotes a multidisciplinary perspective and working approach. Semesters four and five prepare students specifically for practical work in settings of clinical psychology: basic knowledge in psychotherapy is presented and subsequently tested. The students then acquire and train communication skills so that they are adequately prepared for their internship. One focus in the sixth semester is on in-depth studies of health psychology, epidemiology and public health, another on the integration of theoretical and practice-oriented elements. Students conclude their studies with a Bachelor thesis.

5 These course contents are complemented by Studium fundamentale, i.e. fundamental studies in liberal arts and humanities, which are an integral and obligatory part of all degree programs at UW/H. Over the entire course of studying, students regularly attend courses that convey reflexive, communicative and artistic-creative competences, and learn to look beyond the boundaries of their discipline.

6 Modern forms of teaching and learning Like all other degree programs at our university, the new psychology program offers modern forms of teaching and learning, new examination formats, and an excellent integration of theory and practice. Classes of 35 students per year ensure ideal study conditions. The following types of course are offered: interactive lectures: The entire semester group attends the lecture. Lectures are not the only type of course within a module and are always complemented by the types described below. seminars: The semester is taught in two groups of 15 to 18 students each, and each group addresses different theoretical and practice oriented-subjects. project seminars: For the duration of the semester the entire semester group attends about four to six seminars; subsequently they are grouped into teams of up to six students. Teams address different relevant topics. tutorials: Student tutors from higher semesters supervise exercise groups of four to six students each.

7 Knowledge, skills, competences All these course types are characterized by activating and practice-oriented forms of teaching and learning. In the methodology modules students make experiences as test subjects; they train self reflexion in small groups and receive practical instruction in methodology workshops. Case-based learning in the basic modules underlines the immediate practical relevance of this educational concept. Modules are application-oriented and many include practical learning via simulated patient contacts (also in tutorials). All these training elements prepare students for their internship. In a learning spiral (i.e. a repetition of course contents with progressive learning) starting in the third semester students apply research tools in practice followed by a critical review of their experience. The goal of this approach is to achieve an optimum integration of theory and practice that facilitates the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competences.

8 Educational objectives Graduates of the Bachelor program have acquired RR a solid and broad basis of expertise in basics subjects of psychological theories, and specialist knowledge in clinical psychology and diagnostics RR the competence to apply statistical procedures and qualitative methods RR knowledge and experience pertaining to research related methods and issues RR knowledge of biological, cognitive, social, developmental, pedagogic and personality approaches in psychology and also of their effects, correlations and limitations RR the ability to apply this expertise in professional practice RR knowledge of psychosocial work and the corresponding structures of the health system RR knowledge of health-psychological concepts, as well as the competence to convey such knowledge to others via consulting and training.

9 Career perspectives The program conveys the protected title Bachelor of Science and qualifies graduates for professional activities in the field of clinical psychology at an assistant level. The highly application-oriented program enables graduates to assume responsibilities in clinical settings, specifically in daycentres and inpatient facilities. Here they can e.g. meet a growing demand in psychiatric wards and rehabilitation clinics, either as psychology assistants or special psychological therapists. The degree also qualifies the holder for the subsequent Master program in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy Science at UW/H, or for a Master program in psychology at other universities.

10 Socially acceptable tuition payment system In 1995 the student association (StudierendenGesellschaft Witten/Herdecke e.v.) designed and established a contract scheme between student generations that governs tuition payments. The idea was to avoid social selection based on differential ability to pay tuition fees. Students may choose between various modes of payment. If they opt for payment after graduation, they start paying as soon as they have a job and start earning. If graduates earn less than a defined minimum income they are exempt from repayment. Witten/Herdecke University s intergenerational contract for students is unique in Germany and ensures that financial pressures present no obstacle for prospective students. In case of direct payment, students pay 3600 EUR per semester, up to a total of EUR for the entire program.

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13 The program key data Start: each winter semester Scope and duration: full-time studies, 6 semesters. Participants acquire a total of 180 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer System) in 17 modules. Group size: 35 students are admitted per year. Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Admission requirements: not school grades but personality: general higher education entrance qualification, 3-month internship in a psychosocial care setting (must have started at the time of application), successful completion of selection procedure Application: in writing for details see our homepage Deadline: for the winter term 2012/13: April 30, 2012 (date of postmark); from 2013: February 15. Tuition fees: (direct payment) 3600 EUR per semester, up to a maximum total of EUR. Students may choose from various payment modes provided for in the intergenerational contract for students.

14 Witten/Herdecke University Germany s first private university was founded in 1983 and has been a pioneer in higher education ever since. We feel committed to Humboldt s educational ideals and perceive ourselves as an entrepreneurial university with an integrative approach to research, teaching and practical application. Studies at Witten/Herdecke University are different. We offer sufficient time and space for students to embark upon their studies as an autonomous and highly individual educational project in which they acquire subject expertise and methodological skills as well as socio-cultural competences. Students are encouraged to think in wider contexts and accept social responsibility beyond the scope of a chosen discipline. Fundamental studies, as a core element of identity and the interdisciplinary heart of Witten/Herdecke University, support out-of-the-box thinking. Student education at UW/H is always close to practice and has a strong commitment to value orientation and personal growth.

15 Faculty of Health The Faculty of Health, comprising the School of Medicine, the School of Nursing Science, and the School of Dentistry, offers a unique context to map the complexities of the health care system via a cross-sectional integration of research, teaching and patient care. The interdisciplinary structure enables the faculty to promote, design and implement a specific approach in health care which is personalized and geared to social requirements, and leaves room to try out innovative concepts.

16 Witten/Herdecke University Faculty of Health Applications: Petra Stammnitz Phone: