• Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Applied Positive Psychology)
  Degree Code: LG024

Course Overview

Positive psychology is the scientific study of the factors that enable individuals, organisations and communities to flourish and thrive. There is considerable interest worldwide in positive psychology and its application in work, professional and personal settings. This degree program teaches the history and development of positive psychology, an understanding of the key theoretical constructs of positive psychology, the core research methods used in positive psychology, and the application of positive psychology principles in a wide range of settings.

Course Outcomes

The aim of the program is to equip graduates with the skills, knowledge and ability to be effective change agents in the area of applied positive psychology. Topics covered in the program include goals, meaning and self-concordance; subjective and psychological well-being; the languishing vs. flourishing dichotomy; positive psychology in organisations, broaden and build theory; the psychology of peak performance; resilience; flow; mental toughness; and the philosophy and psychology of happiness. There is emphasis on both theoretical understanding and practical applied skills, and students will be expected to engage in experiential learning, to participate in group discussion and to relate the taught material to their own personal life experience.

Information for International Students

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Applied Positive Psychology) is only offered on a part-time basis over one year, and Australian law requires that international students study on a full time basis. This means that international students cannot enroll in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Applied Positive Psychology). However, international students who want to study Applied Positive Psychology can enrol full time over one year in the Master of Coaching Psychology program. This program teaches all of the Applied Positive Psychology units of study within the context of coaching as an applied positive psychology.

Admission Requirements

Students should have either a 3-year Psychology degree or a 3-year degree in a cognate discipline with a major in areas such as (but not limited to) arts, humanities, business, science or law. At least two years relevant employment experience is required. Relevant work experience may include counselling, experience in organisational learning and development, management experience, employment in applied psychology settings, professional coaching or other areas directly related to coaching.