COURSE CURRICULUM

The Applied Psychology (Addictions) course combines core psychological research skills with a focused study of addiction and its effects on individuals and society. Students begin by developing a solid grounding in research methods in psychology, learning how to design, conduct, and analyse studies that investigate human behaviour and mental processes. This foundation supports deeper exploration of the psychopharmacology of drugs and addiction, where students examine how various substances interact with the brain and influence behaviour, cognition, and mood. The course also addresses addictive behaviours beyond substance use, exploring patterns such as gambling, gaming, and other compulsive activities, and their psychological and social consequences. Students critically evaluate the broader societal implications of addiction, including policy, prevention, and treatment strategies, and consider how social, cultural, and environmental factors shape addictive behaviours. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to design and conduct an original research project, applying their theoretical knowledge and methodological skills to a specific topic within the field of addiction. By integrating research, theory, and applied practice, the course equips students with the expertise to understand, assess, and address addiction in professional settings, including healthcare, social services, and clinical environments, supporting evidence-based practice and informed interventions.