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Undergraduate study

Studies in psychology open up a world of opportunity. As well as a thorough understanding of human behaviour, and the factors that shape it, undergraduate psychology students will graduate with a set of skills and attributes that are highly regarded by employers and will give them the edge in a range of careers.

An undergraduate degree in psychology will equip graduates with core skills, including the ability to:

  • Apply psychological principles to personal, social and group issues
  • Plan, implement and evaluate research
  • Think critically and creatively, and use scientific methods to solve problems
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of formats and settings
  • Act professionally within an ethical framework.

These skills can be applied in many settings, according to an individual's interests and strengths, enabling graduates of psychology to find employment in a wide range of fields.

In order to become a registered psychologist, both undergraduate and further postgraduate studies in psychology are required. The initial three-year undergraduate sequence can be achieved by completing an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) accredited Bachelor degree with a major in psychology. The fourth year in the sequence is achieved by completing an APAC accredited Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology. Visit the APAC website to see a searchable list of accredited undergraduate courses.

Learn more about the various study pathways and what’s involved in registering as a psychologist.

Check out our 2022 undergraduate student information handout below about the benefits of joining the APS as a student subscriber.
2022 APS Undergraduate Student Information Handout