Course content

The course focuses on applying psychological knowledge to analyze societal challenges and propose scientific solutions. It aims to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in designing psychosocial intervention projects. These projects are grounded in principles of prevention science, evidence-based solutions, and user-centered design.

The course structure combines lectures and project design activities. Lecture topics address various societal issues where psychological expertise can drive positive change, for instance, learning and developmental processes, social inequalities and human development, loneliness, and mental well-being. Topics can vary from year to year and be influenced by societal events. Students select a focus area and apply theories and research findings to conduct informed analyses and design evidence-based psychosocial interventions.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

• Students gain deep knowledge of how psychological theories and research can drive positive societal change.
• Students acquire advanced insight into the dynamic relationships among individuals, groups, institutions, communities, and societies from both local and global perspectives.
• Students understand central concepts and research findings related to evidence-based design, evaluation, and intervention within psychology.

Skills

• Students critically analyze societal challenges using precise scientific language to propose research-based solutions.

• Students develop proficiency in logic modeling, user-centered design, co-design, co-creation, and formulating measurable outcomes and impacts.

• Students become familiar with program evaluation methods, addressing criteria like user involvement, effectiveness, applicability, ecological validity, and ethics.

• Students recognize the role of psychology in interdisciplinary and cross-sector initiatives and explore how to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to develop creative, sustainable, and innovative solutions.

General Competences

• Students gain specialized insights into specific intervention areas, fostering a critical understanding of the complex interplay between individuals and society in the promotion of research-based solutions.

• Students use psychological knowledge in a culturally sensitive and ethical way to improve the mental health and psychosocial well-being of vulnerable groups in the population.
• Students apply relevant psychological knowledge and expertise in various professional contexts, including the private sector, international organizations, civil society and public institutions at local and national level.

Learning methods and activities

Lecture, learning workshops. Students work in groups of 2 on assignments throughout the semester.

Project design activities: Problem-based learning -PBL

Some lectures might be taught in English.

Compulsory assignments

• Mandatory attendance and active participation in the first lecture and the two learning workshops
• Completion of preparatory and follow-up activities
• 80% mandatory attendance

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Admission to a programme of study is required: Master's programme in Community, Health and Environmental Psychology

Credit reductions