Spotlight: Doing more with Psychology @DCU

The BSc in Psychology and Mathematics and the BSc in Psychology and Disruptive Technologies are the newest additions to the psychology programmes in DCU, with our first students moving into Year 3 in September 2023. Data Analytics and technologies that disrupt and completely alter the way in which humans behave are rapidly growing topics in science, social science, industry and in the world around us.

As a psychologist, you will have the skills and competencies to develop a deep understanding of human behaviour. The BSc in Psychology and Mathematics (DC207) is the first course in Ireland to integrate psychology with mathematics, preparing students for a career that combines the interpretation of human behaviour with the use of mathematical and computational models to explain and predict these behaviours. In recent years, there has been an exponential increase in the amount of data collected in daily life and a dramatic shift in how we manage, process and understand data. The ability to integrate core components of algorithmic programming, computer modelling, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) with scientific interpretation of human behaviour will drive real-world applications of data modelling and the future interface between humans, data and technology.

The wheel, the lightbulb, the computer and the smartphone are examples of disruptive technologies that brought about major change in society and in people’s lives. The BSc in Psychology and Disruptive Technologies (DC210) provides you with the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of behaviour change and technology. You will develop a diverse set of transferable skills, including high-level digital innovation, problem-solving skills, advanced interpretation of data relating to human behaviour, an awareness of how to address the challenges posed by disruptive technologies and an understanding of how to build trust in digital interactions (e.g. with generative AIs such as ChatGPT).

These courses are part of a wider project called “DCU Futures” which also aims to diversity the way we teach by replacing regular lectures and exams with blended lectures and online material combined with enhanced practical classes, challenged-based group work and an increased focus on valuable skills required in every walk of life. For instance, you can learn a foreign language in parallel to your degree.

If you have any questions, please contact the programme coordinator of the degree(s) you are interested in:

BSc in Psychology and Mathematics (DC207), Dr Louise Hopper, [email protected]

BSC in Psychology and Disruptive Technologies (DC210), Dr Lorraine Boran, [email protected]