Graduate Certificate of Psychology

Course highlights:

1. Develop strong research and analytical skills Learn how to design studies, evaluate evidence, apply ethical frameworks, and interpret statistical data to solve real-world psychological questions.
2. Understand human behaviour across contexts and the lifespan Explore how biological, cognitive, social, and developmental factors shape behaviour.
3. Build practical problem-solving capabilities Apply psychological theories and research to everyday challenges in areas like health and relationships.
4. Think critically and communicate with impact Strengthen your ability to analyse complex ideas, construct evidence-based arguments, and communicate insights clearly through writing, presentations, and teamwork.

What is the Graduate Certificate of Psychology?

The Graduate Certificate of Psychology at Swinburne Online is an introductory course designed to provide you with an entry pathway into the Graduate Diploma of Psychology.

If you’re looking to explore the field of psychology, the graduate certificate teaches you foundational knowledge and skills to explore areas such as organisational and educational psychology. You’ll also build a base in psychological theory and research.

Core topics that underpin further learning, include:

• Research methods, ethics, and evidence-based practice in psychology
• Statistical analysis, data interpretation, and scientific reasoning
• Core areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, social, and developmental psychology

If you choose to finish your studies with the Graduate Certificate of Psychology rather than continue into the Graduate Diploma of Psychology, you’ll still leave with transferable skills that can be applied in people-focused roles across a range of industries.

How you’ll study

• The Graduate Certificate of Psychology runs across three Teaching Periods per year.
• Expected study load is between 8–10 hours per unit, per week.
• Set your own study pace by taking one or more units per Teaching Period.
• You’ll have 24/7 access to your online classroom, discussion boards, and learning content.
• Learning is delivered through interactive materials, including videos, quizzes, podcasts, diagrams, and written content.

Who is this course for?

• Future psychology students: For those planning to move into psychology and looking for a recognised pathway into further accredited study.
• Professionals in people-focused roles: Individuals working in areas like HR, education, or community services who want a deeper understanding of behaviour and decision-making.
• Professionals building on prior study or experience: For those with previous qualifications or relevant work experience who want to formalise their knowledge of psychology.

This course is not available to International students.

Recommended study pattern

To be awarded the Graduate Certificate of Psychology, you must complete 4 units in total made up of:

Core Units

Brain and Behaviour (PSY70011)

Fundamentals of Psychology (PSY70012)

Introductory Research Methods and Statistics (PSY70020)

Core Unit Options

You must complete one (1) of the following:

Developmental Psychology (PSY70015)

Social Psychology (PSY70013)

Award requirements

To qualify for the award of Graduate Certificate of Psychology students must complete 50 credit points comprising of:

• Four (4) core units.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $15,292

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying part-time, which is typically 4 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Study on your own terms with this forward-thinking university.

It offers a wide range of study options, from pre-apprenticeships, undergraduate, postgraduate and PhDs, including online degrees with Open Universities Australia. Swinburne is known for career-oriented education and encouraging lifelong learning.

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QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

19

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

15

Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:

• Completion of an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree in any discipline or a higher university qualification is required; or
• Applicants with a completed Advanced Diploma will also be considered; or
• A minimum of 5 years equivalent full-time relevant professional experience Professional experience can include teaching, community work, allied health, youth work, or any experience working with research data.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for RPL.