Unleash the power of your curiosity.

Psychology Department

Unlock the power of the mind with Cornerstone Institute's Department of Psychology, where education transcends theory to ignite passion, foster innovation, and transform both the individual and society. Dive deep into human cognition and behavior with a cutting-edge program that challenges you to solve real-world issues, guided by world-class mentors. Here, you'll sharpen your critical thinking, engage in groundbreaking research, and develop the skills needed to pioneer solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. At Cornerstone, personal growth and professional empowerment merge, preparing you to shape the future of psychology and drive meaningful change in mental health, education, business, and beyond. Ready to change the world? Begin your journey with us today.

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FINANCE AND FEES
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Higher Certificate

Higher Certificate (HCert) in
Community Counselling

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Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in
Psychology

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BA Honours

(BAHons) in
Psychology: Academic

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BAHons

in Psychology: BPsych Equivalent

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Cornerstone Institute | Psychology Department
Department of Psychology

Know more about us
Who we are?

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Psychology — advancing human dignity, social justice, and mental health in South Africa and beyond.

6Core Values
100%Accredited
ExpertsFaculty
Geraldine Franciscus

Cornerstone Psychology

The Department of Psychology is dedicated to shaping compassionate, skilled professionals who will influence the future of mental health. Our vision is to advance human dignity and social justice for all through psychological knowledge and practice. We pursue an integrative teaching approach that fosters critical engagement, innovation, and research.

Six core values
  • Respect
  • Integrity
  • Excellence
  • Unity
  • Creativity
  • Inclusivity
Accreditation & Mission

Fully accredited by DHET and CHE. NPC registration 2004/025078/08. We nurture visionaries leading mental health, social justice and human dignity.

"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." – Viktor E. Frankl

This insight inspires our belief in psychology to foster personal growth, societal change, and human dignity — the core of our educational mission.

Why Study Psychology at Cornerstone?

Beacon of excellence in modern higher education. Our psychology department stands at the forefront of understanding human behaviour & mental processes.

Integrative Approach

Critical thinking, multiple perspectives, real-world challenges solved with creativity and insight.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Cognitive neuroscience, cultural psychology — always updated with latest advancements.

Social Justice Focus

Community counselling projects, advocacy, applying psychology for positive social change.

Global + Local Relevance

South African psychological landscape with international standards.

Flexible Learning

Contact & distance options for BA Psychology. Tailor your academic journey.

Strong Industry Ties

Internships, guest lectures from NGOs & government partners.

Supportive Community

Small classes, mentorship, and an inclusive culture fostering growth.

Future-Ready

AI ethics, organisational psychology, clinical — prepare for emerging fields.

Geraldine Franciscus

World-Class Faculty

Geraldine Franciscus and our specialists: Clinical, Cognitive Neuroscience, Social, Developmental, Organisational, Research Methodology. They mentor future psychological vanguard.

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Groundbreaking Research

Digital tech on cognition, climate adaptation interventions, cultural neuroscience. Students co-author in leading journals.

Bridging Theory & Practice

Case-based learning, community interventions, industry partnerships.

Continuous Innovation in Teaching

VR simulations, AI-assisted learning pathways, COIL experiences.

Mentorship & Guidance

Personalized academic and career mentorship. Our specialists don’t just lecture — they empower. Join a legacy of excellence.

📜 Higher Certificate in Community Counselling

Empower aspiring counsellors with active listening, empathy, and cultural understanding. Focus on South African realities: HIV/AIDS, violence, gangsterism.

Purpose

NQF level 5, train lay counsellors for community impact. Address critical skills shortages.

Duration

1–3 years (126 credits), distance learning (contact inactive 2025).

Entry Requirements

NSC / NCV certificate pass; RPL for mature applicants 45+.

Teaching Practice

Case studies & simulated community interventions.

Assessment

Assignments, exams, community-based projects.

Career Opportunities

NGOs, schools, faith-based orgs: lay counsellor, crisis support.

Read more Click here to Apply
CHE accredited & DHET registered | NQF Level 5 | Certificate No 2001/HE08/006

BA in Psychology – Empowering Minds

Three-year NQF Level 7, contact & distance learning. Transform passion into actionable insights for community upliftment.

Focus Areas
  • Psychological Principles
  • Psycho-Social Issues
  • Community Engagement
  • Training Program Development
Curriculum Highlights
  • Research Methods
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Community Psychology
  • Ethical Issues in Psychology

Career Opportunities

  • Mental Health Counselor
  • Community Development Worker
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Research Analyst
  • Social Work Assistant

Benefits of BA

Transferable skills, critical thinking, community impact, pathway to PGCE or Honours.

Read more …Click here to Apply

BA Honours in Psychology

Gateways to fulfilling careers: Academic (research path) or BPsych Equivalent (Registered Counsellor). NQF Level 8, rigorous training & practicum.

📘 Option I: Academic

Focus on psychological theory, qualitative/quantitative research. Prepares for Master's & PhD. Duration: 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time. Distance & contact modes.

Download Referee form

🩺 Option II: BPsych Equivalent

HPCSA Registered Counsellor pathway. 720-hour practicum in community settings. Coordinator: Serahni Symington. Contact learning only. Covers DSM-V, cross-cultural psychology, ethics.

Innovative Curriculum

Psychopathology, community mental health, diagnostic systems.

Career & Support

Academic → Master's/PhD/Research. BPsych Equivalent → Registered Counsellor in schools, NGOs, private practice. Small cohorts, mentorship, supportive community.

Enquire now

Psychology Insights

Explore our integrative approach and transformative learning.

Community Impact

Faculty & students shaping future of mental health in South Africa.

Discover more about modern learning, research & engagement.

More VideosMeet Our Team
Cornerstone Institute — Department of Psychology | Accredited by CHE & DHET | NPC 2004/025078/08
See our Work

Why Choose Us?

Dive Deeper:

Cornerstone Institute's Psychology Department isn't just about memorizing textbooks. It's an intellectual odyssey, a journey into the labyrinthine depths of the human mind and its captivating dance with the social world. We offer a dynamic and stimulating environment designed to:

Ignite Your Curiosity:

We believe in fostering a spirit of exploration. You'll be challenged to question assumptions, delve into fascinating research, and develop a critical lens for understanding yourself and the world around you.

Cultivate Critical Thinking:

Our programme goes beyond passive learning. You'll engage in rigorous discussions, analyze complex data, and hone your ability to think critically and creatively. Become an architect of your own knowledge.

Embrace the Power of Research:

Psychology is a science that thrives on exploration. You'll have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects alongside our esteemed faculty, gaining hands-on experience with the tools and methods that drive psychological understanding.

Develop Practical Skills

Our programmes are not confined to theory. We bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping you with valuable skills applicable to a wide range of careers: Communication, Empathy & Social Awareness, and Problem-Solving & Critical Analysis.
PsySSA Career Compass | Cornerstone Institute
Workshop 1: “Your Next Move”
PsySSA Career Compass Series

Psychology Career Compass 2026

We invite Psychology students to attend the PsySSA Career Compass Series – Workshop 1, an online panel discussion designed to support informed decision-making and career planning in psychology. This workshop provides practical, first-hand insight into postgraduate psychology training in South Africa.

  • Understand available postgraduate pathways
  • Realistic entry requirements & selection criteria
  • Step-by-step preparation for postgraduate study
Disciplines covered: Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Industrial, Neuropsychology, Research, Psychometry, and related fields.
Cornerstone Institute presenting: Dr Serahni Symington and Ms Geraldine Franciscus will be sharing expert insights on behalf of Cornerstone Institute.

When

Thursday, 12 February 2026
18:00 – 20:00 (SAST)
Online · Live panel discussion
Register Now – Join the event
Organised by PsySSA (Psychological Society of South Africa)
in collaboration with Cornerstone Institute
Psychology Department | Cornerstone Institute
Cornerstone Institute

Meet our Psychology Team

Hover over a staff member’s image and click the ‘View Details’ button to access their full biography — world‑class educators, researchers and practitioners dedicated to mental health and transformation.

Hear from our Alumnae

What many are Saying?

"The support at Cornerstone blew my mind! A term that some might be familiar with is 'gate-keeping', in which people withhold information to stay ahead. It was the exact opposite at Cornerstone. Everyone helped everyone. It was a space of collaboration and growth instead of competition and selfishness. Not only did they help me grow in my studies through various forms of support, from staff to lecturers to class members, but in myself, where I learned to outgrow the habit of gatekeeping."

Marjory Dick Cornerstone Institute's Psychology Alumni

Studying at Cornerstone Institute was a transformative experience characterized by engaging faculty, a diverse and inclusive community, practical curriculum, flexible learning options, holistic personal development, excellent career preparation, impactful community engagement, accessible education, memorable campus experiences, and ongoing alumni support.

Alin Stive Associate Professor
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Psychology FAQ | Cornerstone Institute
KNOWLEDGE BASE

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions — Your guide to Psychology programmes, career paths, specialisations, and learning at Cornerstone Institute.

Career & Progression

What are the career options with a psychology degree?

There are many options for Psychology graduates. You can work in the NGO sector, business (with HR), marketing etc. If you continue to postgrad you can become a Registered Counsellor with the BPsych Equivalent Hons or once you have completed your academic honours apply for Masters in Neuro, Clinical, Counselling, Research, Industrial or Educational Psychology. Educational Psychology requires an additional teaching qualification.

What is the difference between a bachelor's and a postgraduate degree in psychology?

A bachelor's degree in psychology is the basic qualification. You start to specialise at Honours or Masters level.

What internship opportunities are available through the programme?

We offer our third year bachelor students an opportunity to practice what they have learned over the course of their degree in our Psychology and Community and Intervention Fieldwork module. The BPsych Equivalent incorporates a 720 hour supervised practicum.

Core Courses & Specialisations

What are the core courses in your psychology programme?

📚 UnderGrad Psychology

  • Developmental Psychology: An Introduction
  • Psychology: An Introduction
  • Psychotherapy
  • Research Methods and Statistics: An Introduction
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Theories of Personality
  • Group Therapy
  • Research Methods and Statistics
  • Community Psychology

💬 Counselling Modules

  • Crisis Intervention and Trauma Counselling
  • Advanced Counselling
  • Psychological Interventions
  • Community and Mental Health Interventions
  • Interpersonal Skills and Communications

👪 Family Studies

  • Family and Development
  • Family Counselling

🎓 Hons Modules

  • Research Methods and Statistics
  • Psychological Assessment and Measurement
  • Psychopathology
  • Psychology Research Project
  • Therapeutic Psychology
  • Family Psychology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Personality Theory
  • Developmental Psychology

📖 BPsych Equivalent Only

  • Counselling Skills and Theories
  • Psychological Interventions

What are the psychology programme specializations offered?

  • Neuropsychology
  • Community Psychology
  • Registered Counsellor Profession
  • Family Studies
  • Counselling

Online & Hybrid Learning

Does your programme have any online or hybrid learning options?

Our programmes (HCCC online only currently — BA, BA psychology and counselling majors and Academic Hons) are offered in Contact and Distance modes if class numbers allow. The only programme in Contact mode only is the BPsych Equivalent. Students are required to attend class and/or practicum in person in Cape Town for the duration of the 18 months.

How does your psychology department utilize technology in teaching?

Primarily we use the student LMS Funda for our online teaching requirements. Students can watch videos, have discussions and engage with lesson content all in one place.

How does the psychology programme prepare students for a rapidly changing world?

Psychology broadens our understanding of how people work and teaches us to think and critically engage with the world around us. Studying it helps us to understand ourselves and our place in the world as well.

What makes the BPsych Equivalent unique at Cornerstone?

The BPsych Equivalent programme incorporates a 720-hour supervised practicum and is offered in Contact mode only in Cape Town. It prepares students to become Registered Counsellors with the HPCSA.

Key Insights

Can I pursue a Master's in Educational Psychology with a PGCE?

Educational Psychology requires an additional teaching qualification alongside your psychology degree. Many students combine a PGCE with their psychology background to meet entry requirements.

What support is available for online psychology students?

Students have access to the Funda LMS, dedicated module lecturers, class WhatsApp groups, recorded tutorials, and the School of Education/Humanities plenary site for broader discussions and guest speaker events.

Psychology Affiliations | Cornerstone Institute
CONNECT & GROW

Initiatives & Affiliations

We have various initiatives and affiliations such as Placements, Career Opportunities, and Professional Bodies — all designed to support your journey in psychology.

BPsych Placements

Practicum sites

  • Youth Hub (UCT Online)
  • Western Cape Education Department (WCED)
  • Wynberg Boys’ High School
  • Hermanus Family Centre
  • Hope House – Table View, Tokai, Kuilsrivier
  • CPUT – Bellville Campus
  • CPUT – District Six Campus
  • Tafelberg School
  • Stellenbosch Provincial Hospital – Youth Hub
  • Gene Louw Primary School

BPsych Opportunities

Internship / Volunteering

  • Hope House (Youth and Community Support)
  • South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
  • Lifeline South Africa
  • Childline South Africa
  • Community Keepers (Violence Prevention & Support)

Make an impact — Gain real-world experience through these meaningful opportunities.

Professional Bodies

Organisations linked to psychology in South Africa

HPCSA

Health Professions Council of South Africa — statutory regulatory body for health professionals.

PsySSA

Psychological Society of South Africa — advancing psychological science and practice.

Cognition & Co

Resources, training, and professional support for psychology students and practitioners.

Professional Bodies & Organisations South Africa

HPCSA

Health Professions Council of South Africa
The statutory regulatory body responsible for registering health professionals and ensuring compliance with ethical and professional standards.

Statutory Body

PsySSA

Psychological Society of South Africa
A professional association representing psychologists, dedicated to advancing psychological science and practice, and advocating for mental health in South Africa.

Professional Assoc.

Cognition & Co

A private organisation offering resources, training, and professional support for psychology students and practitioners, including internship preparation and continuing professional development.

Training & Support
Your pathway to professional psychology starts here — from practicum placements to professional registration.
We have students from all over the world

We are a Global Campus

Psychology

Embark on a Global Learning Journey at Cornerstone!

See where our vibrant student community hails from! 

Cornerstone institutions attract ambitious learners from across the globe, fostering a diverse and enriching educational experience – both online and on campus. Explore the interactive image map below to discover the geographical tapestry of our student body in 2024.

 

All workshops will be hosted on campus at 1 Cedar Street, Sandown, Milnerton Rural, Western Cape, South Africa, 7441, Cape Town. For registrations and information, contact Gabrielle Williams at email psychadmin@cornerstone.ac.za or call 021 448 0050.

  • Cornerstone Global Students: 2024 Enrollment at the Psychology Department

  • Botswana

  • 1

  • China

  • 1

  • Dar Es Salaam

  • 1

  • Dubai

  • 1

  • Germany

  • 1

  • Hong Kong

  • 1

  • Indonesia

  • 1

  • Ireland

  • 1

  • Kenya

  • 1

  • Korea (Democratic People's Republic of)

  • 3

  • Korea (Republic of)

  • 12

  • Macoa

  • 1

  • None

  • 4

  • Namibia

  • 1

  • New Zealand

  • 1

  • Qatar

  • 2

  • Qatar

  • 1

  • Saudi Arabia

  • 6

  • Shanghai

  • 1

  • South Africa

  • 1263

  • Taiwan

  • 1

  • Thailand

  • 4

  • United Arab Emirates

  • 1

  • Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)

  • 1

  • Vietnam

  • 4

  • Zambia

  • 2

  • Zimbabwe

  • 1

  • Total: 

  • 1326

    • Cornerstone Institute
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