Students continue social science undergraduate studies at a higher level and specialise in psychology.
The program combines advanced study of core psychological theories and methods, and training in commonly used cognitive and personality assessments. Evidence-based approaches to psychological intervention are a focus. Students gain a comprehensive introduction to ethical standards in professional practice and legislation that govern the practice of psychology in Australia. Studies are supervised by a Faculty of Arts and Business academic who has relevant research interests and expertise. There is a thesis component.
- Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
- * Estimated tuition fees are based on 2025 rates. Refer to international fees for more information.
- Not all majors/minors and elective options are available at every campus. You should refer to the What Can I Study tab, and the proposed study sequence for your chosen campus and intake for further information.
The program combines advanced study of core psychological theories and methods, and training in commonly used cognitive and personality assessments. Evidence-based approaches to psychological intervention are a focus. Students gain a comprehensive introduction to ethical standards in professional practice and legislation that govern the practice of psychology in Australia. Studies are supervised by a Faculty of Arts and Business academic who has relevant research interests and expertise. There is a thesis component.
Admission requirements
The entry requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours) are:
- completion of an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)-accredited three-year undergraduate degree in psychology within the last 10 years or the first three years of an accredited four year course, and
- a minimum Credit average in second and third year units (all units at second and third year) and a Credit in the majority of psychology units (second and third year units).
There is a limit on the number of honours places available, and selection will be based on applicants’ order of merit on second and third year psychology units (courses).
Career opportunities
Registration as a psychologist with probationary conditions, or further postgraduate studies in the area of psychology.
Membership
Graduates may seek registration as a psychologist with probationary conditions with the Psychologists Board of Queensland. Graduates are also eligible to apply for entry to specialist postgraduate training programs in psychology, such as the Master of Psychology (Clinical), or research higher degrees in psychology, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Program structure
Program structure
Students must successfully complete the following courses, totalling 96 units, in order to be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Social Sciences (Psychology) (Honours):
Coursework component
PSY400 Advanced Statistics in Psychology
PSY401 Advanced Theoretical Issues in Psychology
PSY402 Professional Practice of Psychology
PSY403 Ethical and Professional Issues In Psychology
Dissertation component
PSY404 Research Dissertation A
PSY405 Research Dissertation B
Program requirements and notes
Enrolment and fees
- In any semester, standard full-time enrolment comprises 0.500 EFTSL
- In any semester, standard part-time enrolment comprises 0.250 EFTSL. Students enrolling part-time in the award must complete the coursework components before enrolling in the dissertation
- The census date for withdrawal without financial penalty or academic penalty is the Semester 1 or 2 census date
- Commonwealth supported students pay student contributions
- Students who are not Commonwealth supported pay full tuition fees
EFTSL - Equivalent Full-Time Student Load. One year of full-time study equates to 1.000 EFTSL.
Assessment and examination
All coursework is normally graded internally. Assessment work involves a combination of short reports, essays, class presentations, class tests and examinations. A copy of your dissertation will be sent to two independent examiners, one of whom is normally internal and the other of whom is external to the University of the Sunshine Coast.
To be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours), students are required to pass both the coursework and dissertation components of the program.
Other notes
- Refer related policies, rules, plans and procedures.
- Refer to explanation of terms.
- International students need to refer to the English language requirements.
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
Classes of honours
The degree is awarded in one of the three classes:
- Class 1
- Class 2 (awarded as Division 1 or Division 2)
- Class 3
The class of honours awarded may not be more than one grade higher than the grade for the thesis. For example, if you receive a ‘Credit’ grade for your thesis, you may not be awarded the honours degree at a higher level than Class 2 Division 1, regardless of the average mark.