The mind and behaviour
Connect the major psychological perspectives with thinking, emotion, learning and everyday behaviour.
The Behaviour Institute · Online diploma
Advanced Diploma
in Psychology
Understand the mind. Make sense of behaviour. See people with greater insight.
A broad study of psychology, connecting the main theories of human behaviour with development, relationships, wellbeing and mental health.
Learning with The Behaviour Institute
9 modulesA broad psychology programme
100% onlineStudy wherever you are
One yearDesigned for part-time study
Tutor supportGuidance throughout your learning
Course overview
A connected understanding of human behaviour
Psychology helps us understand how people think, feel, develop and relate to one another. This diploma introduces the main schools of psychology and brings together perspectives on learning, personality, health and wellbeing.
You will consider both the individual and their wider environment: how life experiences, relationships, biology and social influences shape behaviour.
Development and relationships
Consider how people change across the lifespan and how relationships, culture and social surroundings influence them.
Health and wellbeing
Build a more informed understanding of addiction, psychological distress and the factors that support wellbeing.
Learning outcomes
What you will learn
Develop the knowledge to compare psychological perspectives and think more carefully about the influences on human experience.
- Describe the key concepts and perspectives in the main areas of psychology.
- Explain how cognitive and behavioural processes influence thoughts, feelings and actions.
- Understand psychological development across the lifespan.
- Recognise how social and cultural environments influence identity and behaviour.
- Discuss personality, motivation and individual differences.
- Connect biological, cognitive, social and developmental perspectives.
- Consider the ethical and methodological implications of different psychological approaches.
Course content
Nine modules.
A wider perspective.
Move from the foundations of psychology to development, addiction, wellbeing and the different roles within the profession.
Select a module to view its focus.
MODULE 01History and schools of psychology
Understand biological, behavioural, cognitive, humanistic and psychodynamic perspectives, and the biopsychosocial model.
MODULE 02Cognitive and behavioural psychology
Study how thinking, learning and behaviour interact, and how these processes influence everyday experience.
MODULE 03Developmental and social psychology
Consider physical, cognitive and social-emotional development, together with the influence of relationships and social environments.
MODULE 04Addiction psychology
Examine dependence, addiction and the psychological, biological and social influences on substance use.
MODULE 05Positive psychology
Study wellbeing, strengths and the factors associated with a meaningful and fulfilling life.
MODULE 06Personality and individual differences
Consider personality, intelligence, values, motivation, stress and coping, alongside an introduction to psychopathology.
MODULE 07Health psychology
Understand how psychological, behavioural and cultural factors relate to physical health and illness.
MODULE 08Mental health and distress
Develop a more informed understanding of psychological distress and the promotion of wellbeing.
MODULE 09The role of the psychologist
Learn about different areas of psychology and the education, training and professional requirements associated with them.
Who the course is for
For professional learning and personal understanding
This programme is suited to people who want a broad understanding of psychology, including those working in health and social care, education, human resources, and voluntary or community services.
It also offers an introduction for those considering further study and anyone interested in understanding themselves and others more deeply.
Delivery and assessment
- A one-year programme designed for part-time study.
- Delivered entirely online through reading materials, short videos and slide presentations.
- Nine modules, each with a 2,000-word written assignment.
- Assignment questions available from the beginning on your student dashboard.
- Tutor guidance and support with course questions.
- A diploma awarded on successful completion.
Your course tutor
Learn with Dr John Crimmins
Dr John Crimmins is the founder and director of The Behaviour Institute. He holds a PhD in Psychology and brings over 25 years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy.
His approach places importance on understanding the person, their relationships and their experiences, alongside the theories and evidence that inform psychological knowledge.
John is available to answer questions about the course material and support you throughout your studies.
Continuing professional development
Learning with The Behaviour Institute
CPD provider
The Behaviour Institute is an approved training provider with the CPD Certification Service in London. This diploma supports continuing professional development and further learning in psychology.
Professional registration as a psychologist requires additional recognised education and training. Entry to postgraduate programmes is determined by the receiving institution.
Course fee
Start your Advanced Diploma in Psychology
Your fee includes the nine-module programme, course materials, tutor support, assessment and your diploma on successful completion.
Your login details will be emailed once payment is received.
£695Full course fee · One-time payment
Pay in full & enrolFlexible payment option
Seven monthly instalments of £99
£693 in total. Select the instalment option below. Your payment amount and currency are shown in the Stripe table.
Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
Is this course delivered entirely online?
Yes. You study online through reading materials, short videos and slide presentations, with tutor support.
How long does the course take?
The programme is designed as a one-year, part-time course. You can organise your study around your work and other commitments.
How is the course assessed?
There is a 2,000-word written assignment at the end of each of the nine modules. Assignment questions are available on your student dashboard and relate directly to the course materials.
Who is the course tutor?
Your tutor is Dr John Crimmins, founder and director of The Behaviour Institute. He is available to answer questions about the course and support your learning.
What are the payment options?
You can pay £695 in full or choose seven monthly instalments of £99, totalling £693. The amount and currency for the instalment option are displayed in the Stripe pricing table.
When will I receive my login details?
Your login details will be emailed once payment is received so you can begin studying.
Will this diploma qualify me to practise as a psychologist?
This is a continuing professional development diploma. Qualification and registration as a psychologist require additional recognised education and supervised training; requirements vary by country and professional body.
Will I receive a diploma?
Yes. You receive your Advanced Diploma in Psychology on successful completion of the course assessments.
