PY0659 - Consumer Psychology

What will I learn on this module?

On this module you will examine the behaviour of consumers from a scientific perspective and analyse the various strategies utilised by advertisers and marketing and retail outlets to increase sales of consumer goods. The focus of the module will be on the application of psychological research and theory to the context of consumer behaviour. Through the course of the module, you will explore how cognitive, social and other psychological processes shape consumer behaviour. You will also investigate the ways in which marketing strategies are designed to capitalise on such influences.

How will I learn on this module?

On this module you will learn through a combination of lectures, in-class activities and tutorials, along with independent study.

You will attend a series of two-hour interactive lectures to learn about the main areas in which psychology can be applied to the study of consumer behaviour. These lectures will provide the basic framework for syllabus topics. The interactive elements will involve discussion of the application of particular topic areas introduced in the taught sessions. The aim of the interactive lectures is to consolidate information learnt through independent reading and to encourage you to apply your knowledge in a problem-based learning situation. You will have the opportunity for group discussion, enabling you to communicate your ideas and findings in a group setting, showing sensitivity to the perspectives of others. Effective oral and visual communication skills will be developed through such activities. Where relevant, experts from other disciplines (e.g. marketing and business) will provide input into the teaching of the module, through one-hour ‘career insight’ talks.

Directed study will be encouraged through the provision of reading lists, which will serve as a basis for further, independent study. This will be further encouraged through the provision of study questions and topics. Independent learning skills and reflection on the role and value of those skills will prepare you for career development learning.

Together, the learning strategies of lectures, workshops, directed and independent study aim to develop conceptual knowledge of the topic area and illustrate the range of paradigms and methods that can be used to investigate it. Tutorials will provide an opportunity for you to discuss issues related to the module with a member of staff.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

The module tutor will support you by making a variety of resources linked to the taught elements and assessments available on the e-learning portal (e.g. PowerPoint slides, handouts, reading lists, directed assessment related-activities) along with links to websites to encourage further exploration of consumer psychology. A discussion board on the e-learning portal will be available for students to pose and respond to questions among peers and to module tutors. This enhances collegiality and also means that support is available to all students. Technology enabled learning will be implemented through the use of Panopto lecture recording.
Tutorials can provide an opportunity for students to discuss issues related to the module with a member of staff.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MK1: You will be able to demonstrate conceptual knowledge of Consumer Psychology by critically discussing relevant theory, recent research and methodological approaches
• MK2: You should have the ability to apply relevant psychological concepts in the development of viable marketing strategies

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MIP1: You will demonstrate key skills associated with psychology in a business context, including project management and effective communication skills and strategies
• MIP2: You will take charge of your own career development learning, through critical self-evaluation and reflection on the relevance of the module for career enhancement and future learning.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MPV1: You will demonstrate the characteristics of a Northumbria psychology graduate through working collaboratively to find creative solutions in a problem-based learning environment, successfully communicating these solutions using the most appropriate formats and media

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment
Formative assessments will comprise interim presentations of ideas, and group activities related to the final assessment. These will be evaluated by peers, and through discussion with the module tutor. (MIP1; MPV1)

Summative Assessment
The main assessment consists of one piece of individual written work (3500 words) worth 90% of the module mark. In a problem-based learning scenario, students will create a marketing campaign and include a rationale for this, presenting psychological research and theory in support of their approach. Students will be required to work in groups to devise a campaign, but the final assessed piece of work will be an individual assignment. (MK1; MK2; MIP1; MPV1)

The second assessment is a self-reflective account in which you will be asked to consider how this module has impacted on your employability and future career (MIP2). This will be worth 10% of the module mark.

Feedback
Formative assessments, the module tutor will provide immediate verbal feedback on top of peer feedback provided through discussion in group activities.

For the summative report, feedback will be provided on the electronic submission in the form of a level-specific rubric. Additional written comments will be provided that identify a minimum of one strength, one weakness and one area for improvement.

You will be required to arrange a tutorial with your personal guidance tutor for formal feedback on your reflection.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

Though lectures and interactive activities, the module examines the various factors affecting consumer behaviour, and explores how people interact with marketing systems. It specifically aims to investigate how the core areas of psychology can be applied in this context. It will draw on areas such as; cognitive psychology (e.g. memory and attention); Social Psychology (e.g. the role of culture, group behaviour, loyalty); Developmental Psychology (e.g. how children function as consumers) and Individual Differences (e.g. emotion, attitudes, motivations) as well as exploring contemporary issues such as behaviour change and online behaviour. Additional lectures will be provided by experts from other disciplines (e.g. marketing and business)
The module is assessed in two parts; 1) a marketing campaign accompanied by a rationale for your marketing choices. 2) A reflective account which evaluates the skills you have gained through the module and how these may be applied to your degree pathway and wider career.

Course info

UCAS Code C800

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with optional study abroad year

Department Psychology

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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