Last Updated: June 10, 2024
Psychology Programs in Australia
When it comes to studying internationally, college students have the opportunity to study almost anywhere in the world with the flexibility of having a large number of subjects or fields to choose from. As such, prospective students look not only for the experience of living in an entirely new country but also focus on the quality of the program, in the field of their choice.
One of the most sought-after locations for studies, research, and eventual employment is the country of Australia. The land "down under" offers many different programs of study, which are held in high regard around the world. One such program is psychology, a popular path of study for many undergraduate students.
Psychology is the study of understanding human behavior and factors that contribute to the well-being of individuals and groups. Psychology as a subject of study is an emerging field, especially with the increasing worldwide recognition of the importance of mental as well as physical well-being, with growing concerns about psychological health due to recent advances in technology and rapid changes in societal frameworks. The need to study and research these changes in behavioral patterns is both urgent and of paramount importance, making studying Psychology an attractive career option for students who wish to make actual changes in society and culture through their work.
One of the first things to look at when choosing a Psychology program in Australia is whether the program is approved and accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA); only students who complete a program approved by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council can work as a practicing psychologist.
How to Select a Program?
Students are provided with a plethora of different choices of what Psychology course to enroll in, but it must be kept in mind that different types of courses lead to different education and career paths in the future. Undergraduate degrees in Psychology may be offered either as a major within a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree or it may be offered as a stand-alone specialist degree such as
Bachelor of Psychology or
Bachelor of Psychological Science.
Opting for Psychology as a part of a BA or BSc degree is a good option for students who want to develop a solid general idea of the subject. It is especially a great option if the student desires to engage in interdisciplinary studies involving Psychology and various other subjects since it allows the student to study other disciplines alongside their major. These types of degrees are chosen by those who do not necessarily want to become professional practicing psychologists. These degrees are typically 3 years in length.
For provisional registration with the APAC, the student must apply for an accredited fourth-year program, which will require an extra year of study.
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Note:For students who have opted for a Psychology major in a BA or BSc program that is not APAC accredited and want to pursue a career in further research and practice professional psychology may be eligible for entry into a bridging program (approximately 12-18 months duration) which allows students to apply for entry to an accredited 4th-year program. Completion of a fourth-year equivalent Graduate Diploma in Psychology allows the student to apply for provisional registration as a psychologist with the APAC and consequently for postgraduate programs.)
On the other hand, students interested in continuing to work in Psychology-related fields in a professional setting or who want to continue their studies at the postgraduate or doctorate level should instead opt for a Bachelor of Psychology or Psychological Sciences. These are considered to be specialist degrees and are better suited for a professional career in clinical psychology or research in the subject. These degrees typically last for 4 years and may include choices for specializations and fieldwork.
How to Become a Psychologist?
Registration to be a psychologist in Australia is controlled by an institution called the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Students must complete a minimum of a combined six years of education and training to show experience and preparedness in their field of study to be eligible for the position of a practicing psychologist. The six years of education and experience are an amalgamation of different periods of study. To register as a Psychologist with APAC, one must follow the following steps:
- Undergraduate Level (APAC Level 1):The student must complete an APAC-accredited three-year undergraduate psychology program. A level 1 program will serve as an introduction or initiation into the field of Psychology and lay down the framework for further study and research. This stage also allows a degree of flexibility to the student, who may be able to pursue different minors or other subjects in a shared-pool system.
- Undergraduate 4th Year (APAC Level 2): The student must complete the fourth year in his/her studies in Psychology, either as an Honours year of an undergraduate program or a fourth-year equivalent Graduate diploma in Psychology. Full-time Level 2 courses are generally one year in duration.
The completion of this level results in the candidate being eligible to apply for Provisional Registration with the APAC. This is a prerequisite to an application for any postgraduate program, internship, or supervised practice.
- After completion of the above, students are presented with 3 options from which they have to choose in order to achieve General Registration with the APAC as a Psychologist:
- 5+1 Pathway: Students choosing this option need to complete a fifth year of study, such as a Master of Professional Psychology (APAC Level 3) at an educational institution. This is to be followed by a one-year internship as a supervised practice. Finally, the student must pass the National Psychology Exam (NSE).
- 4+2 Pathway:Students must complete a two-year internship as supervised practice and then must pass the National Psychology Exam (NSE). It must be noted that this pathway is being discontinued by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). It is recommended that students who wish to practice follow the other two pathways instead.
- Postgraduate professional psychology qualification pathway:This pathway requires students to complete the fifth and sixth years of study as part of a master's or a combined Master's/Ph.D. Doctorate program (APAC Levels 3 and 4).
Professional postgraduate degrees are offered in nine areas of Practice Endorsement (AoPE):
- Clinical Neuropsychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Community Psychology
- Counselling Psychology
- Educational and Developmental Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Organisational Psychology
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
After completion of a postgraduate program, the now-registered psychologist must complete the registrar program with the PsyBA to be eligible for AoPE.
As previously stated, the first step in choosing a program is to check if it is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council and also the Psychology Board of Australia. As is the case with most universities, students looking to study in psychology programs must complete an application process to be accepted into the university. To meet qualifications for general entry, prospective students must have a completed Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or equivalent qualification documentation (proof of previous education completion); attend and pass interviews and meet prerequisite grades and test scores; meet an English language requirement (testing is possible for proof). Prospective students must also meet the minimum required scores for the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), which are typically listed on each university's website.
Cost to Pursue a Psychology Program in Australia
The price of tuition for psychology studies in Australia can differ depending on the university, program types, and location. Students have the option to pursue a diploma or degree in psychology, with costs ranging from AUD 37,000 to over AUD 62,000 per year. It is important to note that these figures solely represent the tuition fee and do not encompass additional expenses such as housing rent and personal costs.
Top Universities for Psychology in Australia
1
University of Queensland
- The University of Queensland is renowned for its exceptional academic standing, which has been built upon a long and distinguished history of excellence in education and research. With a commitment to providing a world-class learning environment, the university has consistently ranked among the top institutions in Australia and the world.
- University offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Psychology Science, Master of Clinical Psychology, Master of Business Psychology of Organizational Psychology, Master of Clinical Neuropsychology or Clinical Psychology, Master of Psychology in the fields of Counselling Psychology, Health Psychology, Sport & Exercise Psychology, Master of Counselling, and Ph.D. in Psychology.
- In order to qualify for undergraduate programs in Psychology, students are required to have successfully finished Year 12 (or its equivalent) with General English subject (Units 3 & 4, C). The minimum entry score for a Bachelor of Arts is ATAR 70, while for a Bachelor of Psychology Science, it is ATAR 88. International students must meet the English Language Requirements, which include a minimum overall IELTS band of 6.5, a TOEFL score of 87 overall, or a PTE score of 64 overall.
In order to qualify for postgraduate Psychology programs, students need to possess a recognized 4-year bachelor's degree in psychology (with I or IIA honors) or an equivalent 4-year APAC-accredited program. Those with degrees from outside Australia must have their credentials evaluated by the APS. International students must meet English Language Requirements, which include a minimum IELTS band score of 7 overall, a TOEFL score of 100 overall, or a PTE score of 72 overall.
- The tuition fees for psychology programs are as follows:
Program | Domestic Students | International Students |
Bachelor's | AUD 13,000 per year | AUD 41,000 per year |
Master's | AUD 5,000 per year | AUD 48,000 per year |
2
University of Melbourne
- The University of Melbourne is known for its outstanding reputation and high standards in the field of higher education. As one of Australia's leading universities, it has earned global recognition for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The university's strong emphasis on research and collaboration with industry partners ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that is relevant to the demands of the modern workforce.
- The University offers programs in Psychology- Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Biomedicine, Master of Applied Positive Psychology, Master of Applied Psychology, Master of Psychiatry, Master of Psychology and Doctor of Philosophy.
- In order to qualify for undergraduate programs in psychology, students need to have completed Year 12 or an equivalent qualification with a study score of at least 25 in English/English Language/Literature or a minimum of 30 in EAL. The entry score for admission in 2024 is set at a minimum of 85. International students must also meet the English Language Requirements, which include achieving a minimum overall TOEFL score of 79, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, or a PTE score of 64 overall.
- In order to be eligible for enrollment in postgraduate psychology programs, students must have successfully completed a four-year undergraduate psychology sequence accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) within the past decade. This includes a three-year psychology major as part of their undergraduate studies, followed by a fourth-year honors specialization in psychology or its equivalent, with a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of at least H2A (75%) or higher. International students must also meet the English Proficiency Requirements, which include achieving a minimum TOEFL score of 94 overall, an IELTS band score of 7.0 overall, or a PTE score of 72 overall.
- The tuition fees for psychology programs are as follows:
Program | Domestic Students | International Students |
Bachelor's | AUD 4,500 | AUD 39,000 to AUD 45,000 per year |
Master's | AUD 4,500 | AUD 44,000 per year |
3
University of Sydney
- The University of Sydney is a superb option for students seeking a high-quality education. With its prestigious reputation and world-class faculty, students can expect to receive an excellent academic experience. The university offers a wide range of programs and courses across various disciplines, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to pursue their interests and passions.
- University offers courses in psychology- Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Psychology Honours, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Clinical Science, Master of Clinical Science/Ph.D., Master of Science in Coaching Psychology, and Ph.D.
- In order to qualify for undergraduate programs, students are required to have successfully finished Year 12 or an accredited higher education study, which also encompasses approved preparation courses. The ATAR entry score for the year 2024 has been set at 80. International students must meet the English proficiency criteria, which entails obtaining a minimum overall TOEFL score of 85, an overall IELTS band of 6.5, or an overall PTE score of 61.
- In order to qualify for master's programs, students are required to have finished a four-year bachelor's degree in psychology with Honours from a higher education institution that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), achieving at least first-class Honours or its equivalent. International students must also meet English language proficiency requirements, which include obtaining a minimum TOEFL score of 96 overall, an IELTS band score of 7.0 overall, or a PTE score of 68 overall.
- The tuition fees for psychology programs are as follows:
Program | Domestic Students | International Students |
Bachelor's | AUD 10,000 | AUD 56,000 |
Master's | AUD 40,000 | AUD 57,000 per year |
4
University of New South Wales
- The University of New South Wales presents itself as an excellent option for students seeking a top-tier education in Australia. With a strong reputation for academic excellence, innovative research, and a diverse and inclusive campus community, UNSW offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students to excel in their chosen fields. From cutting-edge facilities and resources to a vibrant student life and support services, UNSW is committed to providing a world-class education and preparing students for success in their future careers.
- University offers programs in psychology- Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), Bachelor of Psychological Science, Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Bachelor of Science, Master of Psychology (Clinical), Master of Psychology (Forensic), Master of Clinical Neuropsychology, Combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical), Combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Forensic) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology.
- In order to qualify for undergraduate programs, students are required to have finished Year 12 or an equivalent qualification. The minimum selection rank for the year 2023 stood at 83. International students must meet the English Language Requirements, which entail obtaining a minimum overall TOEFL score of 90, an overall IELTS band of 6.5, or an overall PTE score of 64.
- In order to qualify for master's programs, candidates must have completed a four-year APAC-accredited psychology sequence, including a significant research thesis/project, with Honours Class 1 (85%) or its international equivalent. Psychology degrees obtained from foreign countries must also include a major research thesis/project and be evaluated by the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Additionally, international students are required to meet the English Language Requirements by achieving a minimum overall TOEFL score of 90, an overall IELTS band of 6.5, or an overall PTE score of 64.
- The tuition fees for psychology programs are as follows:
Program | Domestic Students | International Students |
Bachelor's | AUD 14,000 per year | AUD 52,000 per year |
Master's | AUD 13,000 per year | AUD 53,000 per year |
5
Monash University
- Monash University is a commendable option for students seeking a top-tier education in Australia. With a strong reputation for academic excellence, innovative research, and a diverse and inclusive campus community, Monash University offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students to excel in their chosen fields.
- University offers programs in psychology- Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Master of Addictive Behavior Analysis, Master of Clinical Psychology, Master of Counselling, Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology, Master of Professional Psychology and Master of Social Work.
- In order to qualify for undergraduate programs, students are required to have satisfactorily finished at least an Australian Year 12 qualification (or its equivalent) and meet the specified academic entry score. International students must also meet the English Language Requirements, which entail obtaining a minimum TOEFL score of 79 overall, an IELTS band of 6.5 overall, or a PTE score of 58 overall.
- In order to qualify for admission to master's programs, students are required to possess a four-year sequence in psychology that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) with a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 75 or higher. This four-year APAC accredited sequence may consist of a three-year major in psychology within an Australian undergraduate degree followed by a fourth-year Honours specialization in psychology, or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, international students must satisfy the English Language Requirements by achieving a minimum TOEFL score of 79 overall, an IELTS band of 6.5 overall, or a PTE score of 58 overall.
- The tuition fees for psychology programs are as follows:
Program | Domestic Students | International Students |
4
Bachelor's | AUD 36,000 | AUD 44,000 |
Master's | AUD Varies | AUD 42,000 |
Some Things to Note for International Students
- Standardized tests for college acceptance can replace the ATAR scores. Examples of such tests are the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, GCE A-Levels, Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) examination or American College Test (ACT), Cambridge Pre-University Diploma, or European Baccalaureate.
- Students who have studied in or completed a recognized qualification with the required grades can check with specific Universities for an indicative required score for some overseas secondary education qualifications.
- Some courses may also have prerequisites such as relevant professional experience or studies in a specific subject (For example, the University of Sydney requires applicants for Psychology courses to have past studies in Mathematics as a prerequisite).