Bachelor of Psychological Science

On completion of the course you will be able to:

·        Demonstrate knowledge of influences on human behaviour, both normal and abnormal

·        Understand the principles and techniques of psychological research

·        Demonstrate knowledge of Psychological Assessment and measurement

·        Critically analyse ideas and research

·        Connect your theoretical knowledge and learned psychological techniques with relevant real-world problems

·        Demonstrate knowledge of ethical principles governing the conduct of research, the use of formal assessment tests and clinical practice by psychologists

·        Demonstrate discipline-based writing skills and APA-style conventions

Potential occupations include:

• Graduate resource worker
• Youth worker
• Employment consultant
• Graduate market researcher
• Human resources consultant

Potential employers include:

• Community health providers
• Consulting firms
• Government agencies
• Hospitals
• Market research companies
• Research centres
• Rehabilitation facilities

Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council. Graduates are eligible to apply for Honours in psychology. Graduates must subsequently complete either two years of supervised practice, or obtain an approved qualification such as a Master of Psychology, in order to register for practice. Full membership of the Australian Psychological Society requires an Honours degree in psychology and accredited postgraduate qualification.

Higher education

Students are admitted to Flinders University on the basis of their performance in either Year 12 Studies (or international equivalents), previous Higher Education studies, completed TAFE/Vocational qualifications, Foundation Studies programs or Scholastic Assessment tests.

English Proficiency Requirements

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses.

This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants:

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Special requirements

A police check may be required to complete work placements.

Practicum placement

Cover a range of formal assessment tests and clinical methodologies used by practising psychologists, and connect theoretical knowledge and practical techniques with real-world problems.

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. 

The Bachelor of Psychological Science aims to develop knowledge of the factors influencing human behaviour and experience, and to provide skills for the application of this knowledge to issues in the real world. This degree provides comprehensive knowledge of such fields as learning, motivation, personality, emotion, development across the lifespan, social and cultural influences, biological influences, and mental health. Also integral to the course is the development of critical thinking and research skills, and an understanding of the ethical responsibilities of researchers and psychology clinicians. On completion of this degree students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of influences on human behaviour, both normal and abnormal. Students will have an understanding of the principles and techniques of psychological research and knowledge of Psychological Assessment and measurement.

Award Requirements

To qualify for the Bachelor of Psychological Science, a student must complete 108 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic