How to become a psychologist

How to become a psychologist in Australia

Becoming a registered psychologist takes commitment, passion and many hours of study. Feeling a little intimidated? We understand. Our expert student advisors are here to help you achieve your goals, even if you haven't hit the books in years.

Generally, the pathway to practising psychology in Australia takes at least 6 years. From 2022 onwards, you’ll need to complete 5 years of study that has been accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), followed by a 1-year internship.

So step-by-step, as a budding psychologist, you will:

1. Study a 3-year undergraduate degree, full or part-time. You don’t have to major in psychology, but if you don’t, you’ll need to add a Graduate Diploma of Psychology to your undergraduate degree.

2. Complete postgraduate study like a Master of Psychology or a doctoral degree (PhD) in any area of study.

3. Do a 1-year internship which can done at a full or part-time load.

4. Pass the exam for professional registration. It's known as the National Psychology Exam.

5. Apply for general registration as a psychologist from the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).

Research... specialisations... which path should you take? There is no wrong choice. If you’re motivated by research, the Board of Psychology Registrar program may be the ticket, while a specialised focus like sports psychology will require further study and an engaged mentor. On the other hand, if you want to help people overcome their trauma one appointment at a time, general registration may be just what you're looking for.

Psychology courses: What do you need to study?

Ready to dive in? Every experienced psychologist has been where you are now, considering their enrolment and making plans to follow their aspirations.

What you need to study to become a registered psychologist

A Bachelor of Psychology, or an undergraduate degree with a major in psychology, introduces students to the history, theory, techniques, research practices and discussions that underlie human behaviour. Steeped in both scientific inquiry and conceptual discourse, you'll be exposed to a diverse range of psychological specialities as you lay a robust foundation for your next steps.

Throughout your studies, you'll learn more about neuropsychology, abnormal psychology, social and personality psychology, health psychology, cognition and perception, memory, developmental psychology, organisational psychology and psychopathology, ensuring the direction you choose to take reflects both your talents and your interests.

Is an honours year required? Yes, if you desire to be a registered psychologist, an honours year is a non-negotiable. On the other hand, if you get to the end of your three-year degree and feel compelled to look into alternative careers, here’s what else you could do with a Bachelor of Psychology:

• Caseworker/manager

• Communication specialist

• Market researcher

• Human resources specialist

• Marketer

• Social worker

• Medical and health services manager

• Correctional officer

• Community analyst

• Child protection officer

Why study psychology online?

You deserve the freedom to pursue your passions in a way that suits your schedule, without sacrificing your work, social life or family time. Change isn't always easy, but studying psychology online through OUA is simple. Our student advisors work with you to map a clear path, ensuring you're supported every step of the way, regardless of your academic history.

Industry bodies

Psychology Board of Australia

The Psychology Board of Australia develops the code of ethics, standards and guidelines that govern the daily practices of Australian psychologists. Supported by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), the board works with universities to ensure the courses they offer can be recognised, funnelling graduates into a registration stream once they achieve the standing of a provisional psychologist (following the completion of an honours year, once the student has begun placement or higher learning).

Australian Psychological Society (APS)

The Australian Psychological Society is Australia's leading psychology body, developing both the discipline and the profession of psychology in national and local communities. Members are treated to a trove of benefits, from early career guidance to research opportunities, advertising to professional development and advocacy.

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