The four-year program provides students with a thorough education in the scientific discipline of psychology as well as introducing them to the applications of the discipline, in conjunction with a thorough grounding in traditional and contemporary counselling skills and theories, with an emphasis on integrative theory and practice – using the best of current knowledge to engage best practice in the diverse and multicultural workplace.

The program covers the core areas of psychological science including the main theoretical positions, recognises the scientific basis of psychology, and provides education in the range of methods and analyses that form an integral part of the scientific approach used in psychology; as well as introducing the foundations of the counselling discipline, engaging in the critique of theory and practice and grounding the skills work in evidenced-based ethical and professional standards.

You'll undertake laboratory training and two industry counselling placements in which all students are expected to participate. Following a broad introduction to the discipline of psychology in the first year, students undertake advanced studies in abnormal psychology, physiological bases of behaviour, cognition, information processing and language.

The emphasis on counselling practice includes an introduction to counselling theory and skills, a thorough grounding in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and solution oriented practices, ethical practice, responding to crisis, grief and loss, and cultural diversity. Students gain expertise in personal and relational empathy, problem solving, brief solution focused approaches, and skills in lifelong learning in professional practice.

Final year students undertake professional placements across a range of human services agencies that aim to provide workplace experience in the many roles and skills needed to work in the community as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Career opportunities

Disability support, community health, research, telephone counselling, working with individuals, families and groups, non-government organisations, government departments, in youth work, welfare work, child protection, corrections, aged services, community development, education, mental health, and administration of counselling services.

Graduates can also complete further study to become a registered psychologist, a registered counsellor, a clinical psychologist or pursue an academic career.

Accreditation

The Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), The Australian Counselling Association (ACA), the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).

Note: Subject to final accreditation approval