Bachelor Of Psychology

Our Bachelor of Psychology accepts any health, community or social services diploma from registered training organisations in Australia (or equivalent), as entry into second year.

Award granted

Bachelor Degree (Pass)

Course code

CRS1401150

Delivery location

Frankston

International

Go to International students page

Length

Full Time, 2 years. Part Time, 4 years.

Start dates

26 February, 22 July

• Read more about this course

  Successful completion of our Bachelor in Psychology could lead to further study pathways:
  - Honours study in psychology or cognate disciplines
  - Study towards graduate certificates or diplomas
  - Eventual study towards masters or doctoral qualifications in psychology or cognate disciplines, such as Masters of Clinical Psychology, Qualifying Master in Social Work, PhD

  
  Course structure

  To complete the Bachelor of Psychology students must have already completed a relevant diploma and then must complete the 16 subjects in psychology. A full time student will enrol in 4 subjects per semester and this will take two years to complete the bachelor degree.

  
  Indicative workload

  Weekly workload per semester for 4 subjects: 12 hours face-to-face plus 24 hours personal study time. Two days per week at our Frankston Campus and online classes.

• Learning outcomes

  A. Describe and discuss theories and research, and investigate and critically evaluate issues in the core discipline areas of psychology: history and philosophy of psychology; individual differences; psychological health and well-being; psychological disorders; learning, memory, cognition, language and perception; motivation and emotion; neuroscience and the biological bases of behaviour; lifespan developmental psychology; social psychology; culturally appropriate psychological assessment and measurement; research methods and statistics
  B. Critically analyse information to generate creative solutions to solve complex problems in behavioural sciences and psychology
  C. Exercise skills in independent research, theoretical analysis and critical evaluation in Psychology
  D. Exhibit advanced interpersonal and collaborative skills, consistent with professional, ethical and culturally sensitive practice, when working with people from diverse backgrounds
  E. Apply knowledge and skills with responsibility and accountability for their own learning and practice, individually and in collaboration with others
  F. Interpret and communicate Psychological ideas, problems and arguments in modes suitable to a range of audiences using a range of media
  G. Recognise the importance of the relationship between knowledge of the scientific discipline of Psychology and the application of this knowledge in the practice of Psychology, and to appreciate the importance of keeping up with recent developments and contemporary issues in Psychology.

• Subjects - Year two

  Introduction to Data AnalysisPSY002

  Semester one
  

  Introduction to data analysis introduces students to statistical concepts applied to experimental methods. Statistical methods can be applied to scientific disciplines such as psychology but are often used in other broad areas. The ability to understand, critique and communicate quantitative analyses are imperative to providing evidence-based findings and being able to determine the merit of data.
  
  In this subject students will be introduced to statistical concepts including descriptive statistics, probability and variables. Students will be required to understand and communicate and critique hypothesis testing using a range of statistical techniques.

  Assessment method:Short online submissions indicating students understand statistical methods, and an end of semester take-home exam.

  Thinking PsychologicallyPSY003

  Semester one
  

  Psychology as a broad discipline is constantly changing in line with new findings and a greater understanding of social, biological and personal traits and states. Understanding the evolving landscape of psychological research relies on an understanding and discussion of both the history of science, and the history and contemporary theories of psychology.
  This subject will introduce students to the scientific method in its broad context and in line with historical and contemporary psychological theory. At the completion of this unit students will be able to understand and question assumptions psychologists make and apply this critical lens to several modern psychological theories and techniques.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Lifespan DevelopmentPSY004

  Semester one
  

  Each individual is unique in their journey through life. Human development is shaped largely by the complexities and intricacies of heredity and environment factors interacting prior to conception and throughout the lifespan. This subject will explore biological, social, psychological and economic factors that shape an individual’s growth and well-being throughout the lifespan. Major theories of development will be critiqued, and explanations used to describe lifespan development will be reviewed. The relationship between biological, psychological and environmental factors and mental health will be examined.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Alcohol and Other Drugs IssuesPSY001

  Semester one
  

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or exams.

  Exploring ResearchPSY005

  Semester two
  

  The subject will explore the fundamentals of research, both in terms of conducting it and understanding it.
  An overarching topic is covered each week of the semester. In a mixed-mode approach, each three-hour face-to-face session will incorporate elements of traditional lecture regularly interspersed with discussion, continuous opportunity to ask questions, and posed scenarios that require individual and small-group work to complete and present to the class for wider discussion.
  An assortment of research techniques will be canvassed, with an underlying philosophy that a good researcher is one able to determine and apply the most appropriate combination of techniques to the problem at hand rather than being limited to a small number of preferred methods.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Principals of Social PsychologyPSY006

  Semester two
  

  Social psychology focuses on the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of people. In particular social psychology looks at the dynamic interactions between people and how these can affect learning, behaviours and a concept of self. Social psychology uncovers the nature of individual cognitive in social situations.
  This subject will engage students with historical and contemporary concepts of social psychology including affect, concepts of self and influence. At the conclusion of the subject students will be able to critique and discuss social psychology concepts and research methods.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Cognition Language and PerceptionPSY007

  Semester two
  

  Cognitive psychology focusses on the mental processes that allow us to perceive and interpret the world. Understanding the processes that give rise to perception, that allow us to recall memories and to produce speech are fundamental in our understanding of consciousness.
  In this subject students will look at the history of cognitive psychology, sensory perception, attention and memory. Students will apply a critical lens to concepts of psycholinguistics and reasoning while reflecting on their own cognitive processes.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Individual Differences in Capacity, Behaviour and PersonalityPSY008

  Semester two
  

  Lasting psychological characteristics that distinguish us from one another are components that make up individual differences. Intelligence, personality traits, values and capabilities make up individual differences. These individual differences shape our behaviour and our sense of self and others.
  In this subject students will be introduced t concepts of individual differences in memory, ability to multitask, intelligence and personality traits. At the conclusion of this units students will understand and be able to communicate individual differences and their interactions with behaviour.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

• Subjects - Year three

  Learning and MemoryPSY009

  Semester one
  

  Concepts of learning and memory are fundamental to understanding cognitive processes. This unit will cover historical and current theories of learning as well as neuroanatomical and physiological aspects of learning and memory. Students will be introduced to a range of principals such as classical and operant conditioning, episodic and semantic memory and memory in normal and pathological states. Students will also be encouraged to consider the interactions between learning and memory throughout the course.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Motivation and EmotionPSY010

  Semester one
  

  In this subject students are introduced to concepts and explanations of emotional experiences and aspects of motivation through a psychological and physiological lens. Emotion and motivation drive desires and needs that manifest as behavioural outcomes. The concepts of motivation and emotion are relevant to the workplace, school, health care, sports, relationships and concepts of self.
  At the conclusion of this unit students will be able to understand and communicate concepts of motivation and emotion and reflect on their influences on the self. Students will also be able to understand and critique modern and historical research techniques psychologists use to understand motivation and emotion.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Psychological Health and WellbeingPSY011

  Semester one
  

  Understanding behaviours that lead to psychological health and wellbeing allows psychologists and allied health professionals to implement evidence based therapeutic options for best client outcomes. Thinking of the cultural, ethical and practical implications of health interventions will lead to the best outcomes for your future workplace, clients and self.
  This unit requires students to understand, critique and communicate models of health and wellbeing and think about both preventative and therapeutic methods for obtaining optimal mental health outcomes. Students will be encouraged to think about health and wellbeing in several settings and in different populations.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Neuroscience and Biological Bases of BehaviourPSY012

  Semester one
  

  Understanding the biological bases of experience and behaviour are fundamental to developing a holistic view of mind and brain. The environment, behaviour and cognition all influence bodily function and physiology underpins our ability to think and socialise.
  This unit will introduce students to the functional neuroanatomy, chemical and physiological aspects of perception, behaviour and emotion. Students will be able to identify brain regions, understand the physiology of perceptual systems. At the conclusion of this unit students will have a better

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Contemporary Issues in Community PsychologyPSY013

  Semester two
  

  Psychology as a discipline has historically struggled to define itself as a science with critics considering its application ‘soft’ in comparison to other fields. This has resulted in the dominance of a scientific approach to the study of Psychology often focusing on the individual. Community Psychology moves outside of the laboratory to explore the interaction between the individual and social systems. This also encompasses approaches from disciplines such as sociology and public health. This unit specifically explores the application of psychology to Australian communities. Students will encounter real life problems and engage with practitioners to understand the value of Psychology to contemporary Australia.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Current Approaches to Quantitative and Qualitative Research MethodsPSY014

  Semester two
  

  The development of theory requires assumptions that are testable and falsifiable. Psychological theories are tested using quantitative and qualitative research methods depending on the question being asked. This unit encourages students to understand, critique, and apply quantitative and qualitative research methods. At the conclusion of this unit, students will be able to pose a research question, develop hypotheses and apply meaningful analyses to help solve real world problems.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

  Psychological Disorders and Evidence Based InterventionPSY015

  Semester two
  

  Over the course of a lifetime it is estimated up to 45 percent of Australians will experience a mental health disorder. There is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that psychological interventions are effective and cost-effective in the treatment of psychological disorders and lead to a reduction in need to access health services. Treatment of psychological disorders is constantly evolving based on updated evidence for best treatment options. Understanding the evidence in treatment of a range of psychological disorders assists in best health outcomes.
  In this unit students will learn about common psychological disorders and best treatment options. Students will also understand and communicate the evolving landscape of treatment options for psychological disorders and how to apply these under government legislative requirements.

  Assessment method:Can include a combination of essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, executive summaries, and/or take-home exams.

• Course and career pathways

  Nationally recognised training	Diploma Of Community Services	Diploma Of Mental Health	Diploma Of Counselling	Associate Degree Of Psychology	Bachelor Of Psychology
  Possible job outcome	migrant / refugee advocate youth worker juvenile justice support worker community corrections officer	community rehabilitation and support worker welfare support worker mental health support worker	counsellor	career counsellor case manager psychiatric technician social services specialist	psychiatric technician rehabilitation specialist social services specialist case manager

• Advanced standing

  Your current skills, knowledge and experience can help you get a qualification.

  Find out about skills recognition and RPL for certificate to advanced diploma courses.

  Find out about advanced standing for graduate certificate, graduate diploma and bachelor degree courses.

• Admission requirements

  Please refer to the course entry requirements document (available above in the course description) for current requirements.

• Fees

  Indicative total course cost $29,680. Total course cost is indicative based upon the 2024 tuition fee. Any increase in fees for subsequent years is not included in this value. Indicative annual tuition fees of $14,840. Indicative fees are based upon a student enrolling in 100% full time study load and does not reflect if subjects are repeated or advanced standing is granted.

   

• Help with fees

  FEE-HELP

  At Chisholm, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to help you pay for all or part of the tuition fees for this degree course. Find out more about using FEE-HELP to study now and pay later.

This course is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and aligned to Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Level 7.