Master of Clinical Psychology

In Australia, you’ll need to complete six years of education and training to practise as a registered psychologist – four years at undergraduate level and two at postgraduate level

This master degree is the sixth and final year of your study. It provides specialist knowledge in clinical psychology – one of the nine areas of practice approved by the Psychology Board of Australia.

Clinical psychologists assess psychological disorders in individuals, groups and families, and administer programs of treatment. This course raises your competency in this area, giving you advanced understanding of mental health and physical health, and the opportunity to put theory into practice across two clinical placements.

You’ll examine complex psychological disorders in adults, children and youth, including their cause, assessment, diagnosis and treatment. You’ll also develop your professional skills in managing complex ethical and professional issues, working with the public and handling conflict situations.

Over two 50-day clinical placements, you’ll build and apply your skills in a real-world setting, practising core clinical skills such as assessment, case conceptualisation and treatment under the supervision of a registered clinical psychologist.

You’ll also undertake an independent research project, planning and conducting research, analysing your data and completing a dissertation.

When you graduate, you can apply for registration as a psychologist within Australia and gain employment in a professional capacity.

Why study

• Final level of education to work as a psychologist in Australia
• Gain specialist knowledge in clinical psychology
• Increase your understanding in mental health and physical health
• Put theory into practice on two 50-day clinical placements
• Undertake independent research
• Apply for registration as a psychologist on graduation.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Council (APAC).
Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a psychologist within Australia.

Career information

Careers:    

• Psychologist

Industries:    

• Clinical and mental health services
• Education and training
• Social assistance

Future growth for psychologists: Very strong
joboutlook.gov.au
Oct 2020

What you'll learn

• apply psychology knowledge, principles and practice to achieve client-centered and evidence informed outcomes
• generate effective solutions through critical analysis, reflective practice and professional reasoning
• critically appraise information and apply it to contemporary psychology theory and practice
• communicate effectively and appropriately to ensure positive and effective therapeutic and inter-professional relationships; use relevant documentation and reporting processes including the ethical disclosure of professional information
• evaluate and apply appropriate technologies to contemporary psychology practice
• develop and apply life-long learning skills to achieve professional competence; engage in research to further develop personal and professional knowledge and skills
• comply with APAC standards and practices through integration of local and global perspectives relevant to the field
• practice psychology in a culturally responsive and inclusive manner, incorporating perspectives of multiple stake-holders
• work in a professional and collaborative manner to meet ethical and legal responsibilities