Why Psychology with JCU?
Whether you are a professional in a human-centred role such as marketing or education, or you want to deepen your knowledge of the human psyche, JCU’s 100% online Graduate Certificate of Psychology will help you reach your goals.
100% online & part-time
Fast-track your career with flexible study you can balance around your life. Study one subject at a time and complete your degree in as little as eight months part-time.
Unique curriculum
Aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and current and emerging global challenges, this course offers a broad scope of subjects, including Environmental Psychology and Health, Wellbeing & Resilience.
5 Star QS Rating
Awarded 5 stars for teaching, research, facilities, employability, good governance, environmental impact and global engagement.
Program highlights
- Diversify your knowledge and familiarise yourself with current theories of psychology.
- Differentiate your CV as a professional with an understanding of contemporary psychology.
- Fast-track your career with 100% online study.
- Be supported by a dedicated Student Success Advisor.
- Begin the path towards further study and becoming a registered psychologist.
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Reach your goals by studying psychology
The JCU Online Graduate Certificate of Psychology is a contemporary and hands-on qualification designed for the future. You will develop professional skills, learn about emerging trends in psychology and study a range of contemporary subjects.
A way forward in human-centred professions
Advance your career in industries such as teaching, human resources, marketing, counselling, human services or consulting.
A course for passionate inquirers
Build your knowledge and skills while gaining a better understanding of yourself and the people around you.
A stepping stone to becoming a registered psychologist
This qualification can also be a pathway to studying the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging)^ and to becoming a registered psychologist.
^The Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
What you will study
You will study four subjects unique to the Graduate Certificate of Psychology at JCU Online. These subjects align to the UN Sustainable Development Goals as well as current and emerging global health challenges in a technology-enabled society.
To find out which subjects will be available in the upcoming study periods or to learn more about the course, download a course guide.
This subject provides a historical and contemporary overview of social psychology, introducing key theories used to explain and predict people's thoughts, feelings and actions in social situations. Read more
This subject explores historical, contemporary and emerging theoretical approaches to personality. Read more
This subject explores the field of health psychology, including global health issues, chronic disease and biopsychosocial determinants of health, wellbeing and resilience. Read more
This subject examines the human experience of life and the physical, cognitive and social-emotional changes which occur across the lifespan. Read more
This subject introduces empirical approaches to understanding maladaptive behaviour, psychosocial disorders and dysfunctions. Read more
This subject explores key theories and research on how information from the environment is acquired, stored, processed, retrieved and utilised. Read more
This subject introduces key theories and concepts relevant to the biological basis of behaviour. Read more
The subject examines the role that psychology may play in developing sustainable futures. Read more
This subject introduces the theories and practice of counselling in a multicultural society. Read more
This subject will explore the research process and some of the most commonly used methods of statistical analysis relevant to psychological research. Read more
Course information
Backed by 50 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, JCU Online’s Graduate Certificate in Psychology will help you succeed in a complex world.
To be eligible to enrol in the online Graduate Certificate of Psychology, applicants must have:
- Completed a minimum of an AQF Level 7 bachelor's degree qualification in any field other than Psychology at this or another University.
- Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1– Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.
Not sure if you meet these entry criteria? Our Enrolment Advisors can assist you.
Nested qualifications: Early entry exit options
Our Graduate Certificate of Psychology is a nested qualification within our Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging). After completing your graduate certificate, you may decide to study an additional six subjects to gain your graduate diploma. This can be the first step on the pathway towards becoming a registered psychologist.
Your personalised Enrolment Advisor
The role of an Enrolment Advisor is to ensure that you have all the resources and academic support needed to be successful in your studies.
Enrolments Advisors are here to help you with:
- Determining your eligibility for the course.
- Understanding the structure of your course and what you can expect to learn.
- Time management strategies for success.
- How to apply for financial assistance and FEE-HELP.
- Any questions you have about your application.
Contact hours for your Enrolment Advisor
Monday and Tuesday: 8am-6pm (AEST)
Wednesday and Thursday: 8am-7pm (AEST)
Friday: 8am-5pm (AEST)
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Frequently asked questions
We do not allow students to undertake more than one subject in their first study period, as we like to ensure students are set up for success and can manage the workload and requirements. After the first study period, your Student Success Advisor will be available to discuss your options for studying multiple units in one study period.
After gaining your Graduate Certificate of Psychology, you may decide to continue your studies and gain a Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging). After completing your Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging), you may choose to continue your studies to become a registered psychologist by completing either a Graduate Diploma of Psychology (4th year), allowing access to the General Psychology pathway or by completing a 4th year Honours to access both General and Clinical Psychology pathways.
If you choose not to pursue further study or a career in psychology, this degree can help empower you to find employment across a variety of industries like business, community services, education, health services and protective services.
Depending on which pathway you choose to follow it can take around 6-8 years to become a registered psychologist.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors and have studied first to become a medical doctor. Once they have graduated as a doctor, they take on more study and training to become a psychiatrist. A degree in psychology will not qualify you to become a psychiatrist.
Depending on what skills and experience your future employer is looking for, a postgraduate degree in psychology may provide you with the skills required to apply for counselling positions. Each role will be different, therefore we suggest reading the key selection criteria thoroughly.
JCU Online's Graduate Certificate of Psychology consists of four subjects and costs $3,572 per subject. FEE-HELP is available for eligible students.
Some students may be eligible for government assistance to help their study. For more information and to see if you are eligible visit our Fees page.
Student Story
I have been pleasantly surprised by JCU and the course. It is extensive and intensive but I love it. I feel really well-supported. My Student Success Advisor Teju is fantastic. Nothing is ever too much trouble, she is very knowledgeable, and she has been very supportive and constructive in her comments and assistance.
Rose Harney, Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging)
