If you want to understand human thought, emotion, and behaviour, this course provides a solid foundation in psychology. Whether you’re considering a career in psychology or want to apply insights in health, education, business, or community services, this course is ideal for you.
The Certificate of Psychology is a professional development course that introduces the science of the mind and behaviour, exploring core theories and real-world applications.
In this online psychology course, you’ll explore major psychological perspectives, practical research methods and ethical issues. You’ll also learn about memory and learning, development across the lifespan, personality and individual differences, and the effect of social dynamics on decision-making and identity.
You will also discover attachment theories, persuasion, prejudice, and cross-cultural psychology, and develop the ability to view real-world challenges through a psychological lens. You will also learn about applied psychology and mental health, including psychological disorders, resilience, and diverse fields such as clinical, organisational, forensic, and sports psychology.
On completion of this course, you will have a foundational knowledge of psychological principles to support your career or to pursue further studies in psychology.
Course Structure
Certificate of Psychology
Unit 1: Introduction to Psychology
- What is Psychology
- The goals of psychology
- A brief history of psychology
- Biological perspective
- Behavioural perspective
- Cognitive perspective
- Humanistic perspective
- Psychodynamic perspective
- Socio-cultural perspective
- Psychology as a profession
- Psychology for everyday professionals
Unit 2: Research Methods in Psychology
- Psychology as a science
- Quantitative vs qualitative methods
- Common research designs
- Experiments
- Case studies
- Surveys
- Observations
- Ethics in psychology research
- APS code of ethics
- Interpreting psychology research in the media
Unit 3: Biological Bases of Behaviour
- Brain structure and function
- The nervous system
- Hormones: chemical messengers
- The endocrine system
- Genetics: the blueprint of behaviour
- Evolutionary psychology
- Biology and behaviour
- Sleep, stress, and mental health
Unit 4: Cognitive Psychology
- Sensation and perception
- Memory systems: short-term, working, and long-term memory
- Classical conditioning
- Operant conditioning
- Observational learning
- Problem-solving, decision-making, and critical thinking
- Cognitive psychology applications
Unit 5: Developmental Psychology
- Lifespan development
- Infancy (birth-2 years)
- Childhood (2-12 years)
- Adolescence (12-18 years)
- Adulthood (18-65)
- Ageing (65+)
- Piaget’s cognitive development theory
- Erikson’s psychosocial development theory
- Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory
- Attachment and bonding
- Identity formation
- Cultural perspectives on development
Unit 6: Personality and Individual Differences
- What is personality?
- Trait and type theories
- Freud’s psychodynamic theory
- Humanistic approaches
- The Big Five personality model
- Intelligence, creativity, and emotional intelligence
- Personality assessments and ethical considerations
Unit 7: Social Psychology
- How social context influences behaviour
- Components of attitudes (ABC Model)
- Persuasion
- Prejudice
- Group dynamics
- Conformity
- Obedience
- Leadership
- Cross-cultural social psychology
- Social psychology and marketing
- Social psychology and teamwork
- Social psychology and education
Unit 8: Applied Psychology and Mental Health
- Psychological disorders
- Anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia
- Approaches to treatment
- Positive psychology and resilience
- Psychology Iin applied settings
- Health psychology
- Educational psychology
- Business and organisational psychology
- Sports psychology
- Forensic psychology
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Course was very interesting. Tutors were great and quick to respond. Thank you
B. Farag, Kincumber, NSW | Certificate of Psychology
Tutors were very knowledgeable and very understanding.
Overall extremely satisfied with the tutors as they were able to give me an extension to finish my assessments.
L. Nguyen, Fairfield West, NSW | Certificate of Psychology
I enjoyed the course. Simple to use and well structured. A great introduction into the world of psychology and some of the ideas and theories that are used to understand human behaviour.
J. Searle, Goolwa Beach, SA | Certificate of Psychology
I enjoyed the course and found each subject interesting and thought-provoking’.
Emma | North Melbourne, VIC | Certificate of Psychology
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Teachers and Educators
- Counsellors and Support Workers
- HR and Training Professionals
- Managers and Team Leaders
- Anyone interested in human behaviour
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