Introduction to Positive Psychology - Certified Introductory Course
Positive psychology is based on the scientific study of "optimal human functioning". Instead of focusing on dysfunctions, positive psychology is concerned with what enables people to thrive, flourish & become mentally & emotionally resilient. When Martin Seligman was elected the president of the American Psychological Association in 1998, he & his colleague Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, & others, published a manifesto in which they stated:
'We believe that a psychology of positive human functioning will arise, which achieves a scientific understanding & effective interventions to build thriving individuals, families & communities.'
The value of positive psychology is becoming increasingly acknowledged & its approach adopted in business, education & healthcare. Unlike many other trainings, the emphasis in this short intensive course is on experiential learning that focuses on developing practical applied skills.
The course is run in association with Buckinghamshire (Bucks) New University, UK, & successful completion leads to the award of a Certificate. Those who complete the full course & go on to apply, & are accepted, for the University's Masters (MSc) degree in Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) are eligible for a 10% discount on the standard MAPP course fees.
Who will benefit from this course?
The course has been created for all those who are interested in the subject of positive psychology. Whether you’re a coach, counsellor, health care worker, educator, HR professional, or simply have an interest in personal development, this course will provide you with an excellent introduction to positive psychology & its potential to have a beneficial & powerful impact on you, your relationships with others, & to enhance your personal & professional life.
Do I need to have a background in psychology?
No, you don't. The course is suitable for people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Positive psychology can be studied as an academic subject &, in fact, many of participants in this introductory course do choose to continue with their studies by enrolling on the MSc Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) programme. The purpose of this introductory course is to provide a sound understanding of the core principles of positive psychology & encourage you to explore the concepts through applying them in practice in your everyday life.
What will I get from this course?
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A clear overview of the theory & applications of positive psychology.
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The opportunity to explore both the scientific & subjective applications of topics such as: happiness & positive emotions, the experience of gratitude, building on strengths, developing resilience, & the theory of hope & the "growth mindset".
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Practical exercises designed to encourage self-reflection, to encourage you to consider what you would like to get from the course & how to apply what you've learned to support & help you set & achieve your personal &/or professional goals.
This course is designed to be highly interactive & encourages you to form your own opinions.
Participants find this approach to be very effective, describing it as "learning from the inside out".
How will the course be delivered?
The course consists of eight separate online modules that you can complete in your own time & at your own pace. If you want to receive the certificate, you must complete the course within four months of registration but you will have lifetime access to the material & resources. The course facilitators will recommend effective ways of recording your thoughts & insights as you progress through the course & suggest practical exercises that you can do to help you explore & apply some of the positive psychology theory & techniques. You'll have access to extensive course materials & resources including: PDFs, videos, articles, discussion forum, & you'll receive online support from your course facilitators.
Will there be an exam?
No, there is no exam. Those participants who opt to receive the Certificate from Bucks New University & Positive Psychology Online Courses are asked to complete an end of course assignment. This is not formally marked or graded but provides the course facilitators with information about how you have engaged with the course content & you'll receive personal feedback.
Is there a discount for those who progress to the MAPP programme?
Yes. This introductory course often inspires participants to continue with their studies in this subject. Many decide to go on to obtain an academic qualification in Positive Psychology. The course facilitators work in collaboration with the Bucks New University MAPP programme to support this possibility. Applicants who have completed this course & obtained the certificate & who go on to apply, & are accepted, to the Bucks New University MAPP programme are eligible for a 10% discount on the standard MAPP course fees.
When can I start?
Right now! You can register on the course immediately & you can start at any time.
