Psychology

A psychology major will provide students with a broad understanding of the scientific discipline of psychology. This includes a strong grounding in basic psychological concepts and theories in the areas of biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. Students will also develop skills in research methods and data analysis and an advanced knowledge in at least one domain of psychology. Completion of a psychology major is part of the preparation for a career as either a research or professional psychologist.

Students must complete an accredited 125 point major sequence in psychology to undertake professional training. Studies in psychology prepare students for a diverse range of careers that are based on understanding human behaviour.

In 2010 a number of new third year level subjects have been introduced, replacing or adding to subjects previously available within the major. Some previously offered subjects have been cancelled. The University is committed to ensuring that students are not disadvantaged by these changes and students may complete a major as defined by the current structure or a structure detailed in a previous year's handbook applicable to any year the student was enrolled in the course. Students completing third year level subjects across multiple years (e.g. in 2009 and 2010) should refer to advice within each subject entry on non-allowed subject combinations. Students unsure about the structure of their intended major should seek advice from the Science Student Centre.

Psychology major

An undergraduate Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) - accredited psychology sequence is a prerequisite for any student wishing to undertake further study to become a practising psychologist. A three-year accredited psychology sequence requires the completion of a minimum of 125 credit points worth of undergraduate psychology subjects which includes the completion requirements of a BSc Psychology major.

Further information on the structure of the accredited psychology sequence is available on the School of Behavioural Science website.

Note that the pre-2008 APAC accredited sequence in psychology only requires 37.5 points at third year level, all undergraduate science students must complete a minimum of 50 points of third year level science subjects for their major and to satisfy their degree requirements.

Please consult the School of Behavioural Science for advice about ensuring transitional course plans meet the APAC requirements for accreditation.

Core subjects

Either both of:

512-320 Research Methods 3 (Prior to 2010)

512-324 Introduction to Pyschological Disorders (Prior to 2010)

Or:

Plus 25 points selected from:

• 512-322 Industrial/Organisational Psychology 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-330 Human Pyschophysiology 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-335 Advanced Cognition 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-350 Brain Cognition and Behaviour 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-360 Personality and Social Psychology 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-370 Cognitive and Neuropsychological Development 3 (Prior to 2010)
• 512-380 Personal and Social Dvelopment 3 (Prior to 2010)