Stimulate your intellectual curiosity! Biopsychology is a combination of the sciences of biology and psychology and offers insights into the workings of the human brain. It can assist with answering fundamental questions like how we move, think, experience senses and develop language. This course is ideal for those who work in (or would like to work in) the areas of psychology, psychotherapy, teaching, research and counselling, or in the health, biological or health sciences professions.
Introduction to Biopsychology is an online professional development program that will give you insights into how messages are transmitted inside the body and brain, the role of hormones and chemicals, and how our bodies detect and interpret sensory information.
In this biopsychology course, you will study the various theories of the mind-body debate, and how the function of the nervous and endocrine systems can affect the psychology of an individual.
You will also explore the relationship between psychological stress, emotions and consciousness in terms of the physical nature and responses of the body.
On completion of this course, you will have a strong understanding of health, human psychology and the body-mind relationship – valuable insights that can enhance or kick-start your psychology career!
Course Structure
Biopsychology I
Unit 1 – Nature and scope of biopsychology
- Research methods
- Neuroanatomical techniques
- Ethical considerations in psychology
- Mind-body effects
- External stimuli responses
- Effects from internal environment
- Metabolic products
- Eating behaviours
- Blood and lymph constituents
- Body and brain chemicals
- Chemical transmitters
- Dysfunction of body systems
- Psychological responses stimuli
Unit 2 – The senses
- Organisation of the sensory system
- Hierarchical organisation
- Perception
- Sensory perception
- Sensory organs
- Hearing and human cochlea
- Vison, smell and taste
- Touch and pain
- Theories of perception
Unit 3 – The nervous system
- Central nervous systems (CNS)
- The spinal cord
- The peripheral nervous system
- Cranial nerves
- The autonomic nervous system
- Nerve cells (neurones)
- Neurotransmitters
- Neurotransmitter disorders
Unit 4 – The endocrine system
- Endocrine glands of the body
- Hormones
- Adrenal and pituitary glands
- Sexual behaviour
- Sexual development
- The brain and sexual behaviour
- Sexual orientation
- Unusual sexual conditions
Unit 5 – Stress
- Signs of stress
- Psychological stress
- Good stress
- Sources of stress and responses
- Psychological responses
- Covert changes
- Gastrointestinal response
- Cardiovascular response
- Stress and the immune system
- Cell mediated immune responses
- Antibody mediated response
- Stress and infection
- Role of hippocampus
- Personality types and stress
- Physical relaxation
Unit 6 – Emotions
- Homeostasis
- Eating disorders
- Non-homeostatic behaviours
- Psychology of emotions
- Theories of emption
- Central neural theories
- Biological factors
- Emotional expression
- Aggression and fear
- Brain mechanisms in emotions
- Aggression theories
Unit 7 – Consciousness
- Awareness and attention
- Changes in consciousness
- Function of consciousness
- The brain and consciousness
- Disorders and consciousness
- Sleep deprivation
- Why do we sleep?
- Theories of dreaming
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
The study resources were in-depth and the case studies were relevant to the topics
H. Robinson, Garran, ACT | Certificate of Biopsychology
My experience with Australian Online Course has been a great experience. The course was well structured the assignment was challenging but reasonable. I feel I have gained a lot of knowledge and understanding. When I needed feedback, it was given in a timely and considered way. I am grateful and I highly recommend.
C. Brown, Beacon Hill, NSW | Certificate of Biopsychology
It was a pleasant experience; learning a wide range of information. From neuronal pathways to the endocrine system. This course has deepened my curiosity for this and will proposed to do so in the future.
D. Lindsay-Shad, Bondi Junction, NSW | Certificate of Biopsychology
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.
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Enrolling Multiple Staff?
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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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