Why Psychology with JCU?
Backed by 50 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, JCU’s 100% online Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) is APAC accredited and will help you develop your skills and reach your career 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 20 months part-time.
APAC accredited
Our Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
50 years’ experience
JCU has 50 years’ experience in teaching and research in psychology. You’ll study and connect with industry leaders, specialists and experienced academics.
Program highlights
- Understand contemporary psychology disciplines.
- Gain confidence using data and technology.
- Develop a global perspective aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Fast-track your career with 100% online study.
- Be supported by a dedicated Student Success Advisor.
- Begin the pathway towards becoming a registered psychologist.
What you will study
You will study a broad scope of subjects unique to the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) at JCU Online, including Environmental Psychology and Health, Wellbeing & Resilience and more. These subjects align to the UN Sustainable Development Goals as well as current and emerging global health challenges in a technology-enabled society.
Study 10 online subjects over at least 20 months, which you can commence at any of the six study periods throughout the year.
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
This degree can be the first stepping stone in the path to becoming a practising psychologist. Alternatively, students may use this degree to complement their current roles in a range of industries including marketing, human resources, education, human services and counselling.
To be eligible to enrol in the online Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging), 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.
Meet our Psychology Academics
Backed by 50 years of experience in teaching and researching psychology, our passionate academics will empower you to succeed in a world where the scope of psychology is widening.
Nested qualifications: Early entry exit options
If you need to finish your study early, you may still qualify for a Graduate Certificate of Psychology. Get in touch with an Enrolment Advisor to find out more.
Career outcomes
The JCU Online Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) will open the door to diverse career opportunities. Gain foundational knowledge while developing your professional skills with a qualification that’s designed for the future.
Learn the history of psychology and contemporary concepts, preparing you to solve community-based challenges in a variety of job roles, including:
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)
You might also be interested in:
Frequently asked questions
No, you will not be able to gain RPL for undergraduate psychology subjects because they are not at the same AQF level as our Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging).
Students can enrol in multiple subjects per study period, however it is not recommended. Enrolling in two subjects at once means your recommended study hours will be minimum 40 hours per week. In addition, due to the way our subjects are scheduled across study periods, you may have to take a forced break, which means you would not graduate sooner.
Depending on which pathway you choose to follow, it can take between six to eight years to become a registered psychologist. JCU Online's Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) takes minimum 20 months to complete and is equivalent to a Bachelor of Psychological Science which usually takes three years to complete. You can find more information on the Pathway to Becoming a Registered Psychologist above.
Our course is specifically designed for students who have not studied psychology before. It is equivalent to a three-year Bachelor of Psychological Science, so the 'bridging' in the title refers to the way this degree bridges the gap between an unrelated undergraduate degree and further study in psychology.
After completing your Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging), you may choose to continue your studies to become a registered psychologist by completing an accredited fourth-year program providing a pathway to either general or clinical registration. If you choose not to pursue further study or a career in psychology, the skills you gain in this course can be useful to a variety of industries including business, community services, education, health services and protective services.
No, a psychology degree will not qualify you to become a psychiatrist. In order to become a psychiatrist, you will need to complete a medical degree followed by a medical internship and further study.
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)
