Before you embark on your journey to becoming a psychologist, it’s important to do your research. You probably have questions like ‘How long does it take to become a psychologist?’, ‘How much do psychologists earn in Australia? and ‘What qualifications do I need?’. Discovering the answers to these questions will help give you a clear vision of the journey that lies ahead, and allow you to begin planning study into your current life.
What does a psychologist do?
Psychologists play an essential role in the healthcare industry, providing mental health support and intervention to patients across a range of settings. With a focus on the human mind and behaviour, the role of a psychologist includes observing and diagnosing mental health conditions, creating and implementing mental health treatment plans, and working with patients to equip them with appropriate coping strategies.
If you’re someone who has a strong interest in human behaviour and a passion for helping others, read on to find out how to become a psychologist.
Types of psychologists
Like other medical professions, there are opportunities for you to specialise in an interest area. So, how do you make this happen? You may be wondering how to become a clinical psychologist in Australia or how to become a forensic psychologist in Australia. Or maybe you’ve been thinking about how to become a sports psychologist in Australia... or even how to become a child psychologist in Australia! Before you specialise in any area, you’ll first need to gain foundational knowledge and obtain a minimum four-year degree in psychology (this can be achieved through studying a three-year bachelor degree plus an additional honours year, or undertaking a four-year bachelor degree). You will then need to complete an additional two years of study/supervised practice/or a combination of both. These two add-on years are where you can focus on your interest area of choice and grow your expertise.
How to become a psychologist in Australia
The path you take to become a psychologist will be individual in nature and dependant on factors, such as previous qualifications, as well as the area of psychology you want to specialise in. So, just how long does it take to become a psychologist? And what is the path you need to take? As a general guide, if you are wondering how to become a psychologist in Australia, you will need to complete:
- a three-year bachelor's degree in psychology - Bachelor of Science (Psychology) or Bachelor of Science (Psychology Extended) PLUS an additional honours year - Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Psychology).
OR
- a four-year bachelor’s degree in psychology – Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
You will then need to undertake:
- a further two years of postgraduate study – Master of Clinical Psychology
OR
- a one-year postgraduate degree – Master of Professional Psychology plus an additional year of internship approved by the Psychology Board of Australia
OR
- two years of a board-approved internship.
The path you take will determine the qualifications you receive and type of registration you will be eligible to apply for. View the individual entry for each psychology degree for detailed information.
How to apply for a psychology degree at UniSQ
You’re ready to take the next step and apply to study psychology at UniSQ – where do you begin?
Firstly, you’ll need to check that you meet the eligibility requirements for your chosen degree. If you do, you can jump straight into the application process. It’s helpful to note that this process will be different depending on the degree you are applying for. In most cases, undergraduate applications are submitted through QTAC. However, if you are a current or previous UniSQ student returning to study with complete or incomplete qualifications (excluding Head Start students), or have recently graduated from TAFE, you may be able to apply directly to UniSQ. Postgraduate degree applications can also be made directly with UniSQ.
If you have any questions regarding eligibility or the application process, get in touch! No matter where you are in your educational journey, UniSQ offers pathways to study. Whether you’ve just finished high school study, have taken a long break, or have a VET, qualification, we'll help you find the right psychology study path for you.
Time to get started!
So there you have it! How to become a psychologist in Australia! If you have any questions about your study journey, talk to us! Book a free appointment with our Degree Advisors and we’ll help you get on your way to achieving your study goals.
