Different Types of Psychology Degrees in Australia

Australian universities offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology. Students generally don't specialise strongly until their 4th-year research projects and in their master's degrees.

At an undergraduate level, you can choose between several types of psychology degrees. Each has unique features and benefits. Entry into these programs typically requires a minimum ATAR, which varies significantly by university.

Postgraduate degrees in psychology include Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, Master's degrees, and Doctorates. These programs are essential for specialisation and professional practice. They often require high grades in prior studies and are competitive to get into.

Bachelor of Psychological Science

A Bachelor of Psychological Science is a three-year undergraduate degree providing a broad foundation in the field. Topics such as behavioural neuroscience, social psychology, and cognitive processes are covered. Students gain a well-rounded understanding of human behaviour and mental processes.

Entry Requirements: Minimum ATAR varies by university.

Bachelor of Psychology

The Bachelor of Psychology is a three-year degree that builds foundations for professional practice and postgraduate studies. A fourth (honours) year may also be embedded in the program, where students engage in significant research projects and advanced coursework.

Entry Requirements: Minimum ATAR varies by university.

Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)

A Bachelor of Arts with a major in Psychology combines the study of psychology with a broader liberal arts education. This degree allows students to explore psychology within the context of the humanities and social sciences. It integrates psychological theories with cultural, social, and historical perspectives.

Entry Requirements: Minimum ATAR varies by university.

Bachelor of Science (Psychology)

The Bachelor of Science in Psychology focuses on the scientific aspects of psychology. Training includes research methods, statistical analysis, and the biological bases of behaviour. Ideal for those interested in the empirical side of psychology, this degree prepares students for research-focused careers.

Entry Requirements: Minimum ATAR varies by university.

Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)

The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) is a one-year degree that follows the completion of a three-year Bachelor of Psychological Science or a related degree. Admission to this program is based on achieving high grades, typically Distinctions, in the undergraduate studies. This honours year involves advanced coursework and significant research projects.

Note: The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) can also be offered as a four-year starter degree with an embedded honours year, requiring a higher ATAR for entry.

Entry Requirements: High grades (Distinctions) in undergraduate psychology studies.

Related: 4th Year Psychology Honours Online

Graduate Certificate

Graduate Certificates in Psychology are short courses for graduates from other disciplines. They provide foundational knowledge in psychology and cover core concepts like behavioural neuroscience and social psychology. These certificates are an excellent starting point for enhancing career prospects or transitioning into the psychology field.

Entry Requirements: Bachelor degree in any field.

Graduate Diploma

Equivalent to a three-year bachelor degree but shorter, the Graduate Diploma in Psychology typically consists of 10 subjects. The curriculum covers various areas of psychology, including developmental, cognitive, and social psychology. This diploma prepares students for further study or diverse careers in non-practitioner roles.

Entry Requirements: Bachelor degree in any field.

Related: Graduate Diploma in Psychology Online

Advanced Graduate Diploma

The Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) is equivalent to an honours year. It involves coursework and significant research projects, focusing on psychological assessment, interventions, and professional practice. Students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree or graduate diploma in psychology are eligible.

Entry Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or graduate diploma in psychology, with high grades.

Master of Professional Psychology

The Master of Professional Psychology is part of the 5+1 pathway to becoming a registered psychologist. This one-year program focuses on professional practice, including psychological assessment and evidence-based interventions. Completing this program prepares students for a one-year internship, which is required for general registration as a psychologist.

Entry Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in psychology or equivalent.

Masters of Psychology (with Specialisations)

These two-year programs allow specialisation in areas such as clinical, educational, forensic, or organisational psychology. The Master of Psychology with Specialisations involves both coursework and practical placements, providing training for specific fields of practice. Graduates are eligible for general registration and can pursue further endorsement in their specialisation.

Entry Requirements: Honours degree or advanced graduate diploma in psychology.

Specialisations: Clinical, Educational, Forensic, Organisational, Health, Sport and Exercise, Counselling, Neuropsychology, and Community.

Related: Is Counsellor or Psychologist Better in Australia?

Masters of Psychology (Advanced Entry)

Designed for registered psychologists seeking specialised qualifications, the Master of Psychology (Advanced Entry) programs involve advanced coursework and practical placements. These one-year courses focus on enhancing clinical skills and expertise in a particular area of psychology.

Entry Requirements: General registration as a psychologist.

Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology)

A PhD in Psychology, particularly with a clinical focus, combines rigorous research training with practical clinical experience. These programs typically last three to four years and involve completing a substantial thesis along with supervised clinical practice.

Entry Requirements: Honours degree or master’s degree in psychology.

Doctor of Psychology

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctorate focusing on clinical practice and applied research. The degree involves coursework, practical placements, and a research project. Graduates are prepared for advanced clinical roles and often receive endorsement in a particular area of psychology.

Entry Requirements: Honours degree or master’s degree in psychology.

Related: Postgraduate Psychology Courses Online in Australia