Topic:

Introduction

Mental health is a priority in Australian society. State and territory governments, as well as private companies, provide a range of services in psychology to improve the mental health of children, teenagers, families and individuals who are dealing with life’s challenges.  

Psychologists can work in many different places such as schools, hospitals, community health services, organisations and courts. According to Indeed, Seek and Job Outlook, the average salary for a psychologist is AU$89,989 and there are over 7,590 jobs available in Australia related to psychological services.  

Why study Psychology in Australia?

  1. Top Rankings

Australian universities are well-known for their teaching quality, and their qualifications are recognised worldwide. According to QS Ranking 2023, for the Psychology discipline, there are 8 Australian universities listed among the world’s Top 100, with 14 in the Top 200.  

  1. A variety of jobs and real-world experience 

Australian psychology programs help students prepare for a range of careers by offering several majors such as clinical psychology, organisational psychology, forensic psychology, alcohol and drug, mental health psychology, and family and community psychology. Students may complete professional placements units during their course.  

  1. Future Growth

According to Job Outlook, there were 44,300 psychologists in 2023 in Australia, and it is likely to increase by 13.3% to 50,191 psychologists by 2025.   

  1. Post-Study Work Visa

By studying 2 years or more in a higher education Psychology degree, students will be eligible for a 2-8-year Post-study Work Visa. Graduates can utilise these visa opportunities to get more work experience. For Psychology students, they can also use this work visa to undertake an internship or prepare for their future migration options. 

What psychology courses might you study in Australia?

  • Diploma of Social and Psychological Science:  

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fields of social and psychological sciences. This diploma program typically offers a foundational education in various aspects of human behaviour, cognition, emotions, and social interactions. The duration of the program can vary, but it is generally completed over one to two years of full-time study. 

  • Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)  

It is an undergraduate academic program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour, psychological processes, and the principles of psychology. This degree program offers an in-depth exploration of various psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications. The duration of the program is typically around three to four years of full-time study, depending on the university and the specific curriculum. 

  • Bachelor of Psychological Science  

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is an undergraduate academic program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories, and applications of psychology. This degree program focuses on studying human behaviour, cognitive processes, emotions, and the various factors that influence psychological functioning. 

  • Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) 

The Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) is an advanced undergraduate program that builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired in a standard bachelor’s degree in psychology. This program is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of psychological research methods, critical analysis, and advanced study in specific areas of psychology. The “Honours” designation indicates a higher level of academic achievement and specialization. The duration of the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) program is typically one additional year of full-time study, following the completion of a standard bachelor’s degree in psychology. 

  • Master of Psychology (Professional, Clinical, Educational and Developmental) 

This is a postgraduate program designed to provide advanced training and specialization in various areas of psychology. This program is tailored for individuals who have completed a relevant undergraduate degree in psychology and wish to further their knowledge and skills in specific psychological fields such as professional psychology, clinical psychology, educational psychology, and developmental psychology. 

 

Want to know which course/s best suit your expectation and situation? Contact SOL Edu at [email protected] or fill out the enquiry form! Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process. 

What are entry requirements for psychology study in Australia?

  • For the Diploma course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or equivalent and attained IELTS 5.5. 
  • For the Bachelor’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or a Diploma course and attained IELTS 6.5. 
  • For the Master’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed an accredited Bachelor’s degree in Psychology by APAC and attained IELTS 7.0.  

If you don’t meet entry requirement for your preferred course? Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Brisbane, today! Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process.    

What majors might you study for your psychology degree in Australia?

In Australia, psychology programs often offer a range of majors or specialisations that students can choose from to tailor their degree to their specific interests and career goals. These majors provide in-depth knowledge and expertise in specialized areas of psychology. 

  • Behavioural Psychology 
  • Developmental Psychology 
  • Social and Organisational Psychology 
  • Counselling Psychology 
  • Interpersonal Skills 
  • Child and Adolescent Psychology 
  • Clinical Psychology 

Where to study psychology in Australia?

Australia is home to numerous reputable universities offering high-quality psychology programs. When choosing where to study psychology in Australia, consider factors such as program reputation, faculty expertise, available majors or specialisations, career outcomes, facilities, and location. Here are some well-regarded universities in Australia known for their psychology programs: 

  • University of New South Wales 
  • University of Queensland  
  • Australian National University  
  • Monash University  
  • Macquarie University  
  • Queensland University of Technology  
  • Deakin University  
  • Griffith University  
  • University of Adelaide  

If you want to know which university or college is best suit you, contact SOL Edu today! We will offer you free counselling and free application process!  

What are career outcomes after graduation from psychology courses?

  • Clinical Psychologist 

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders. They work in private practice, clinics, hospitals, and mental health organisations. 

  • Counselling Psychologist 

Similar to clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists provide therapy and support, often focusing on helping individuals navigate life challenges and personal growth. 

  • School Psychologist  

School psychologists work in educational settings, providing assessment, counselling, and support to students, as well as collaborating with educators and parents to address academic and behavioural issues. 

  • Criminologist 

Criminologists are professionals who study crime, criminal behaviour, and the factors that contribute to criminal activity. They analyse data, conduct research, and apply their understanding of human behaviour to gain insights into the causes, prevention, and management of criminal behaviour. 

  • Researcher 

Many psychology graduates choose to pursue research careers in academia or research institutions. They conduct studies to advance the understanding of human behaviour and contribute to the field’s knowledge base. 

  • Market Researcher Analyst  

These professionals use psychological insights to analyse consumer behaviour, preferences, and market trends to guide marketing strategies. 

  • Government Officer 

Government officer works within government agencies, departments, or organizations to apply psychological principles and expertise to various areas of government work. 

  • Policy Officer 

These professionals work within government agencies, think tanks, research organizations, or non-governmental organizations to contribute insights from psychology to the creation, evaluation, and implementation of policies that address various societal challenges. 

How to become a registered psychologist in Australia?

In order to be a registered psychologist in Australia, you’ll need to complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in psychology accredited by APAC and two years of supervised work experience or two years of a master’s degree, and apply for registration with the Psychology Board of Australia. 

Contact us to know what courses are accredited by a PBA. Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process.  

How to pass skills assessments for a psychologist in Australia?

For immigration purposes, psychology degree holders need to pass a skill assessment assessed by the Australian Psychological Society (APS). In 2023, the assessment fees are AUD1,357 for applications within Australia and AUD1,233 for applications outside Australia.  

  • To have a positive skill assessment for a psychologist, you must: 
  • Have completed qualifications comparable to six years of study in psychology in Australia (to satisfy this requirement, many international students choose to study a 4-year bachelor and a 2-year master in psychology in Australia), AND 
  • Meet the English requirement, which is IELTS overall 7.0 with no band score under 7.0.  

Or alternatively, you can provide the unconditional general registration as a psychologist in Australia at the time you apply for a skill assessment.  

  • For those who wish to apply for the Skilled Independent visa subclass 189, you may be required to provide the relevant work experience as a psychologist in your Expression of Interest (EOI). Please note that the APS is the authority organisation responsible for assessing your experience. Therefore, you must include your Employment History and relevant work documentation in your skill assessment application.   

Need help with a migration skill assessment? Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] or fill out the inquiry form. Our team will reach out to you within 24 hours at the latest! 

What is the PR pathway for a Psychologist in Australia?

Step 1: Apply for a 485 visa 

After completing at least 2 years psychology course, you are eligible to apply for visa 485 (Post-Higher Education Work stream). You are required to have at least IELTS overall 6.5 with no band score under 5.5 in the past 1 year before you lodge your visa application.

Under visa 485, you can stay in Australia for 2-5 years depending on your degree and nationality. However, if you undertook and completed at least  2 years of study in a ‘Regional Area’ such as the Gold Coast, Adelaide or Perth, you can be eligible for an additional 1 or 2 years of the 485 Visa Thus, you will have more time to prepare yourself for permanent residence (PR) or a temporary visa that can lead to a PR. 

Step 2: Apply for a PR or a visa that can lead to a PR 

After successfully completing an accredited psychology course in Australia, you’ll find numerous pathways to facilitate your migration to the country. Depending on your occupation, you might be eligible for one or more of the following visa options: 

Skilled visas       

  • 189 – Skilled Independent (subclass 189) – is a points-tested visa, allowing you to live and work permanently in any state or territory in Australia. The minimum score that you are required to be considered for a visa invitation is 65, but you may need a higher score to increase your chance of getting an invite.   
  • 190 – Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – is a permanent residence visa but you need a nomination from one of Australian states or territories to apply for this visa. Each state may have its own occupation list and additional requirements, so you must investigate if you meet all the state’s eligibility criteria before asking for a nomination.   
  • 491 – Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 491) is not permanent, but it can lead to a PR (visa 191). You must commit to stay and work in your nominating regional Australia for a minimal period of time (usually 3 years) and achieve at least 65 points to be apply for this visa.    

Employer Sponsored visas   

Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] to know which visa you are eligible for! 

FAQs

What is the best universities to study psychology in Australia?

Australia is known for its high-quality education system and offers several universities with excellent psychology programs. To determine what is the “best” university for studying psychology in Australia, you must rely on may factors such as program reputation, faculty expertise, available resources, curriculum, career outcome, research opportunities, your personal goals/objectives and preferences. Here are some universities in Australia that are well-regarded for their psychology programs: 

  • University of New South Wales 
  • University of Queensland  
  • Australian National University  
  • Monash University  
  • Macquarie University  
  • Queensland University of Technology  
  • Deakin University  
  • Griffith University  
  • University of Adelaide  

How many years does it take to study psychology in Australia?

In order to be a registered psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia, you’ll need to complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree in psychology accredited by APAC and two years of supervised work experience or two years of a master’s degree. Totally, it may take up to 6 years to study psychology in Australia.  

How much does it cost to study psychology in Australia?

The cost of studying psychology in Australia can vary depending on the level of education and the specific university or institution. If you apply for a G8 Australian university, the tuition fee may be around 45,000 – 50,000 per year. However, the tuition fees of lower ranking universities should be more affordable, around 30,00 – 40,000 per year. 

What should I do if I don’t meet the entry requirement for a Bachelor of Psychology?

If you do not meet the entry requirement to directly enroll in a bachelor’s degree of psychology, you can choose the Diploma pathway option. It means that you can study the Diploma of Psychology for one year (the entry requirement for this course is only 5.5 IELTS) and then transition to 3 years Bachelor of Psychology. The total study duration is still 4 years which is the same as the Bachelor of Psychology – direct entry program.    

Can I work as a psychologist after completing a bachelor's degree?

While a bachelor’s degree provides foundational knowledge, to work as a registered psychologist in Australia, you usually need further education and training, such as a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, followed by supervised practice and registration. 

What is the expected salary for a Psychologist in Australia?

The salary of a psychologist in Australia can vary based on factors such as the level of education, experience, specialisation, location, and the type of employer (e.g., public sector, private practice, nonprofit organisation). However, the medium base annual salary for a psychologist is very high, around AUD78,400 per year. 

Interested in studying Psychology in Australia?

Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Brisbane, today for free counselling, and a free application process!