This course builds on learnings from Introduction to Biopsychology, particularly in terms of understanding specific brain structures and how they function. It will introduce you to key research done on complex brain processes and is ideal for those studying counselling, psychology, or biological or health science or working in those industries.
Advanced Biopsychology is a professional development program that will provide you with a deeper understanding of the brain and how certain drugs and damage to the nervous system can affect brain functioning and behaviour.
In this online biopsychology course, you will explore behavioural genetics, the models of memory, and the language and speech theories of Broca and Wernicke.
You will also study the causes and types of brain damage, the stages of recovery, and how drug dependence can affect the brain and the central nervous system.
On completion of this course, you will have a thorough grounding in the functions of different brain centres. You will understand the relationship between our physiological states and our mental processes, how these can influence behaviour, and how your knowledge can positively influence those in your care.
Course Structure
Biopsychology II
Unit 1 – Evolution, genetics and experience
- What is biopsychology
- The organism’s genetic endowment, experience and perception.
- Adaptation
- Behavioural genetics
- The nature nurture debate
- The human genome
- Benefits of genetic research
- Critical policy and ethical issues
Unit 2 – Research methods in biopsychology
- Behavioural genetics
- Methods of investigating the brain: invasive and non invasive
- Localisation of function
- Neuroanatomical techniques
- Psychophysiological measures
- Other methods
- Lesions
Unit 3 – Brain damage
- Causes of brain damage
- Frontal lobe damage
- Damage to other areas and effects
- Types of brain damage
- Case study: Phineas Gage
- Case study: diagnosing epilepsy
- Case study -Alzheimer’s disease
Unit 4 – Recovery from brain damage
- Neuro plasticity
- Stages of recovery: unresponsiveness, early responses, agitated and confused, higher-level responses,
- Case study: Parkinson’s disease
- Parkinsons disease symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, stages, etc
- Drug treatments for parlinson’s disease
- Complimentary and supportive therapies for Parkinson’s disease
- Coping with Parkinson’s disease
- Terminology
Unit 5 – Drug dependence and the brain
- Drugs
- Definitions
- Effects of illegal drugs
- Other drugs: steroids, barbituates, etc
- Physiological and psychological effects of drugs: illicits, stimulants
- Addiction: how drugs work in the brain
- Central nervous system
Unit 6 – Memory
- Models of memory: multistore model, working memory model, levels of processing model
- Levels of processing model
- Amnesia and types of amnesia
- Case study: traumatic amnesia
- Case study: Korsakoff’s syndrome (Alcohol amnesic syndrome)
Unit 7 – Language
- The brain and language
- Paul Broca
- Carl Wernicke
- Aphasia and Diphasia
- Apraxia
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Click Add to Cart/View Cart on the course page.
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Psychotherapists
- Teachers
- Health Professionals
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