View Specification DocumentBSc (Med Sci) & BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Specialist Course 4: Psychological Medicine MED4045
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Medicine Dentistry and Nursing
- Credits: 30
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Runs Throughout Semesters 1 and 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course offers students an insight into the development, nature and range of mental disorders; their effects on patients, families and wider society; and approaches used in management.
Timetable
On average approximately 6 x 1.5 hour sessions per week in Semester One, and 2 x 1.5 hour session per week in Semester 2.
Requirements of Entry
Mandatory Entry Requirements
Actively enrolled in an MBChB or BDS and normally have successfully completed at least the first 3 years. Exceptionally, some external students from specific partner institutions may join the course after completion of two years of MBChB or BDS (or equivalent); however award of the intercalated degree will be withheld until they have subsequently completed the required number of additional credits (or equivalent) at their home institution.
Recommended Entry Requirements
Will normally be placed within the top 50% of the year and have demonstrated good academic progress.
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Core Course
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Research Project
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Statistics
Assessment
Assessment
65% written examination in April/May
35% review essay completed during 2nd semester
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
This course aims to give students an understanding of the biological, psychological and social factors which may impact the development of mental health disorders across the lifespan. Students will gain insight into a range of mental disorders, their effects on patients, families and wider society. Finally, an understanding of the approaches used in the prevention and management of these disorders will be developed.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ Critically discuss the biological, psychological and social factors which may impact on the development of mental health disorders across the lifespan
■ Explain how a range of mental health disorders can present and overlap across the lifespan.
■ Appraise the various ways in which mental health disorders can be treated, with specific reference to pharmacological and psychological therapies.
■ Appraise the various in which social and community factors can promote resilience or increase risk of mental health disorders developing.