

Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science
Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science
Learn the foundations of psychology

Overview
If you’ve ever thought about studying psychological science, our Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science is the ideal qualification to take the first step.
The 4 unit course covers introductory units in psychology which will build foundational knowledge. On completion of this course, students can continue to higher studies in psychological science. The Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science is not available to international students.
This course has been accredited by ACAP under its self-accrediting authority.

What you'll learn
Expertise in human behaviour forms the foundation of all our courses including our Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science.
EXPLORE WITH AN APPLIED FOCUS:
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Foundational Psychological Processes
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Sustainability and Helping Professionals
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History, Science and Application of Psychology
Course structure
The Undergraduate Certificate of Psychological Science course is comprised of 4 units, which are level 100 units. To find out unit delivery information view the relevant Yearly Planner.
The course duration is 6 months full time or up to 3 years part time. For more information on the recommended course sequence click here.
Level: 100 level core
Credit Points: 6
Pre-requisites: None
Mode of delivery: On-campus and online
Unit description:
This unit is one of two introductory units in psychology for commencing students. Along with PSYC1052 Foundational Psychological Processes and the three interdisciplinary units (MULT1015 Applications in Context, MULT1025 Professions and Society, and MULT1035 Sustainability in Helping Professionals) this unit builds foundational knowledge relevant to the history, philosophy, and methods underpinning the scientific study of psychology. In this unit, the history and philosophy of both the quantitative and qualitative approaches are presented within the broader historical and philosophical themes of psychology as a discipline. The goals of this unit are to set the foundation for understanding research design and methods in psychology and to develop skills relevant to critiquing research, which involves developing knowledge and skills in research thinking, research doing, and research consuming. The unit considers the application of these research methods within the context of important concepts such as the scientist-practitioner model, evidence-based practice, ontology and epistemology, and ethics. Content related to introductory concepts in the history of philosophy of psychology are also covered, along with content on the application of psychology in current professional and social contexts. This material will be presented in a manner that is scientifically rigorous yet culturally responsive and informs a broader discussion of psychology as both a professional practice in Australia and as an agent of social benefit. This unit is the first in a scaffolded series of units that, taken together, will facilitate the development of a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge associated with research methods in psychology, the history and philosophy of psychology, and their contribution to the application of psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks. Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a. Twelve (12) weekly pre-recorded 120 minute lectures
b. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute live tutorials
For live tutorials, students will be enrolled to attend a regular class either a) on campus or b) online via Zoom.
In addition, the Unit Coordinator will be available for live online consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.
Level: 100 level core
Credit points: 6
Pre-requisites: MULT1015 Applications in Context
Mode of delivery: On-campus and online
Unit Description:
Opening up possibilities for developing multidisciplinary knowledge and practice, ACAP draws on the four disciplines in the college to develop three integrative units that are core to first-year undergraduate courses and a postgraduate course. These inquiry-driven units lay the groundwork for engaging students with multidisciplinary thinking, discourse and initiative in their fields of endeavour and in their future profession.
This unit introduces the student to academic skills and reflective writing practices. The unit develops the student’s understanding of ethical practice across multiple disciplines. The human rights framework in Australia and its relation to ethics and ethical behaviour in professional practice is also explored.
Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
a. Demonstrate effective information literacy skills when identifying and assessing the credibility of sources
b. Demonstrate reflective thinking skills in constructing arguments about ethics in contemporary society and their value in their chosen profession
c. Describe, explain and reflect on the key parts of relevant professional codes of conduct and ethics and their role in professional life
d. Identify ethical dilemmas and apply ethical frameworks to guide practical decision making
e. Demonstrate a capacity for self-awareness and emerging reflective practices in personal and professional development
Unit workload:
The workload for this unit is 10 hours per week.
Level: 100 level core
Credit Points: 6
Pre-requisites: None
Mode of delivery: On-campus and online
Unit description:
This unit is a level 100 core and along with the interdisciplinary level 100 units and PSYC1052 Psychology: History Science and Application 1 provides an initial introduction to psychology. This unit will introduce fundamental psychological processes including principles of human learning, personality, motivation and emotion. The unit will provide a foundation for future study in psychology, including an introduction to the key processes of human cognition, human emotion, and human behaviour. Students will engage with empirical research as a means of evaluating competing theories and learn to engage in critical analysis of research findings. Culturally responsive approaches to the study of psychology are emphasised with the development of skills in communication of psychological processes across diverse contexts. Students will acquire skills in critical thinking and research communication that are necessary to progress through advanced and applied studies in psychology.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals approximately 10 to 12 hours of learning activities per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a. Twelve (12) weekly 120-minute interactive self-directed learning activities
b. Twelve (12) weekly 120-minute lectures
c. Twelve (12) weekly 90-minute tutorials
In addition, Coordinators are available for consultation for an hour on a weekly basis.
Level: 100 level core
Credit points: 6
Mode of delivery: On-campus and online
Pre-requisites: None
Unit Description
This is the first of three inquiry-driven, multidisciplinary units in our undergraduate courses, which build upon one another to introduce key academic skills and an understanding of critical concepts relevant to the professions and careers into which our graduates progress. It will introduce you to higher education study, including key knowledge about the nature of higher education and how to navigate it successfully. It will help you develop critical thinking and communication skills, including reading and evaluating sources of information, summarising them effectively, and communicating your understanding to others. We will examine interactions between our own and others’ personal cultural identities, how they shape our experience of relationships personally and professionally, and their implications for future study and career. Finally, it will ensure that you understand the concept of cultural safety both as it applies to higher education and the workplace. The unit lays the groundwork for all of your future studies and will help you understand both yourself and others better.
Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
a. Identify, summarise and communicate concepts from credible sources of information
b. Explain the role of culture, cultural identity and cultural influence in higher education and professional practice
c. Evaluate and apply theories and evidence related to culturally safe practices in professional practice
Unit workload:
The workload for this unit is 10 hours per week.
Textbook
The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: https://www.acap.edu.au/student-resources/student-central-your-studies/textbooks-and-course-materials/
Academic misconduct
Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.
Disclaimer
Unit information may be subject to change prior to the teaching trimester commencing. Once term has commenced please review the Unit Outline in your class space to ensure your trimester study plan is correct.
View unit descriptions
- Comprehend and critically apply foundational concepts of psychology, incorporating social, cultural, historical and professional influences on its application.
- Understand and apply values, guidelines, and ethical frameworks as they pertain to practice, research and the protection of public safety in psychology.
- Effectively communicate scientific psychology in written, oral and digital formats.
- Use personal reflexivity to understand the role of epistemologies and ontologies in the science and application of psychology in a culturally safe manner.
- Explain and critically evaluate the use of scientific methods and analysis to conduct, interpret and critique research in psychological science.
- Apply their psychological knowledge and skills to maintain personal and professional resilience over their lifetime.
- Embrace the knowledge, strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and promote cultural safety in psychology
Graduates of the Undergraduate Certificate in Psychological Science qualification can consider further study such as our Bachelor of Psychological Science.

