OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Psychology
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Psychology is a 120-credit specialist qualification comprising six mandatory units that develop in-depth knowledge of mental health, cognitive psychology, addiction, social behaviour, and contemporary psychological debates.

Course Features
This Ofqual-regulated Level 5 qualification delivers specialist psychology education through six mandatory coursework-assessed units, flexible delivery modes, and structured academic progression pathways.
- Ofqual-regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2306/1) ensuring recognised standards
- 120 credits with 1200 hours Total Qualification Time and 600 Guided Learning Hours
- Equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND) and Year 2 of a UK Bachelor's degree
- Flexible delivery through face-to-face lectures, tutorials, seminars, distance, and online learning
- Internally assessed by approved centres and externally verified by OTHM for quality assurance
- OTHM-set unit assignments with a varied approach to assessment supporting progression to Level 6
About This Course
The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Psychology provides learners with a specialist programme of study offering depth of knowledge and understanding of key aspects within the field of psychology. The Level 5 units allow learners to specialise and progress in a variety of relevant subject areas, focusing on how our understanding of psychology is applied in contemporary settings. Learners develop and enhance their skills in mental health and psychopathology, cognitive psychology, visual perception, the diversity of addiction, social psychology with a focus on pro and anti-social behaviour, and individual differences relating to criminology, intelligence, and personality.
Develop specialist knowledge across six core areas of applied psychology
Gain skills in active research, analytical thinking, critical evaluation, and effective academic writing
Build understanding of mental health, psychopathology, and approaches to diagnosis and treatment
Explore criminological psychology, personality theories, and intelligence concepts
Examine contemporary psychological debates including ethics, bias, and key theoretical disputes
Acquire a qualification equivalent to a Higher National Diploma and Year 2 of a UK degree
What You'll Learn
Upon completing this qualification, learners will have achieved a comprehensive range of learning outcomes aligned with the six mandatory units of study.
Evaluate biological and psychological explanations and therapies for schizophrenia and depression
Analyse theories of intelligence and personality and their application to criminological psychology
Describe the structure and function of the visual system and evaluate theories of visual perception
Analyse theories of aggression, media influences on antisocial behaviour, and human altruism
Evaluate explanations, risk factors, and treatment approaches for chemical and non-chemical addictions
Assess codes of conduct, ethical guidelines, bias in research, and major debates in psychology
Who Should Attend?
This qualification is designed for learners aged 18 and above who wish to build specialist knowledge in psychology for academic progression or career development in psychology-related fields.
Individuals aspiring to careers in counselling, mental health, or clinical support roles
Those seeking employment in human resources, management, or organisational psychology
Learners aiming to progress into a Level 6 Diploma or the final year of a UK Bachelor's degree
Professionals in education, social services, or police who wish to deepen their psychology knowledge
Career changers looking to enter the health professions, advertising, or marketing sectors
Mature learners over 21 with relevant experience seeking a formal psychology qualification
Course Content
Explore the comprehensive OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Psychology course content designed to help you master the material through structured modules and lessons.
Individual Differences: Intelligence, Personality and Criminology
Visual Perception
Social Psychology: Pro and Anti-Social Behaviour
The Diversity of Addiction
Contemporary Issues and Debates in Psychology
Course Requirements
Learners must meet at least one of the following entry requirements and demonstrate English language competency if not from a majority English-speaking country.
Hold a relevant Level 3 Diploma qualification or equivalent, or GCE Advanced level in 2 subjects or equivalent
Mature learners over 21 with relevant management experience may be eligible upon confirmation with the delivery centre
Assessments
All six units are internally assessed through coursework and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, requiring learners to fulfil all learning outcomes and meet all assessment criteria to achieve a pass.
Coursework assignments of approximately 3000 words per unit
Internal assessment by centre assessors with formative and summative feedback
External verification by OTHM to ensure national quality standards
Pass or Fail grading based on demonstrated achievement of all specified learning outcomes and assessment criteria
Progression
Successful completion provides learners with a wide range of academic and career progression opportunities in psychology and related fields.
Entry to a Level 6 Diploma qualification in a related field
Direct entry into Year 3 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree programme through OTHM university progression arrangements
Employment in careers such as career counselling, education, health professions, human resources, management, police, and social services
Further specialisation in areas including advertising, marketing, and organisational psychology
Apply Now For This Course
Fill out the application form below to enroll in OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Psychology. Our team will review your application and contact you shortly with enrollment details.



