Bachelor of Psychology
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 67.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 67.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Join Australia's Top 10 university for graduates skills in psychology1.
- Ranked South Australia’s No. 1 university for psychology research2.
- Gain industry experience through a work placement in your final year.
- Learn with the No.1 university in SA for learning resources in Psychology3, including state-of the art Cognitive Neuroscience, Sleep and Chronobiology Labs and Psychology Clinics.
- Discover how you can undertake further study towards becoming a registered psychologist or research psychologist.
- Gain a well-respected qualification that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
- Gain an additional qualification when you study this program as a double degree with human services or law.
- UniSA is the only University in South Australia to offer work placement opportunities as part of all 3-year undergraduate Psychology degrees.
1Ranked #7, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities. 2The only university in SA to have all its assessed Psychology and Cognitive Sciences research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3Ranked #6, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
Snapshot
This degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills to understand foundations in psychology and embark on further studies which can lead to a fulfilling career in psychology.
Designed and taught by world-class researchers in the field of psychology at a university ranked No.1 in South Australia for psychology research1, the curriculum is relevant, up-to-date and informed by the research of our academics.
You will graduate with:
- an understanding of the theoretical basis of psychology
- critical and analytical thinking skills
- the ability to manage data
- the ability to use and produce research.
You can also expand your employment options by combining your Bachelor of Psychology degree with another degree. With just one year of extra study you can graduate with a double degree in areas such as law or human services.
With further study you could also become a registered psychologist or research psychologist. To follow this career path at UniSA, you must complete the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree. Students can apply to transfer into the full four-year Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree if they have achieved a minimum GPA of 6 and have completed between 4 courses and 2.5 years of a UniSA bachelor degree. Find out more.
1The only university in SA to have all its assessed Psychology and Cognitive Sciences research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
What you'll learn
Graduates of this degree will have an in-depth understanding of the field of psychology. You will be able to demonstrate problem-solving skills, planning, judgement and decision making.
As well as a focus on theoretical knowledge, this degree has a strong practical focus. During your final year, you will have the opportunity to undertake an industry placement where you will complete 150 hours in a real workplace. This will help to further develop your skills, preparing you for your future career.
You will be able to pursue other areas of interest through the electives you choose. Electives can be selected from any courses offered in any bachelor degree at UniSA and will enable you to specialise in a non-psychology discipline, maximising your employment opportunities. For example, you may choose to study social work or human services as an elective.
You will also have the opportunity to further explore specific areas of interest with a series of specialist psychology courses (these courses are subject to student demand and staff availability). The courses include:
- Advanced Research Methods
- Psychological Assessment
- Psychophysiology of Sleep
- Health Psychology
- Conservation Psychology
- Language, Context and Social Behaviour
- Work and Organisational Psychology
Note: students wishing to be eligible to apply for the Master of Teaching upon completion of this program should consult the Master of Teaching Program Director regarding suitable electives prior to enrolling.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- case studies
- research reports
- projects
- presentations
- essays
- quizzes
- article evaluations
- journals
- examinations.
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Psychology
As part of this degree, you will learn from world-class researchers at a university that has been ranked number one in the state for research in Psychology1.
You will graduate with an understanding of the theoretical basis of psychology; critical and analytical thinking skills; the ability to manage data; and the ability to use and produce research.
You will also have the opportunity to undertake an industry placement during your final year where you will gain practical experience and build important industry networks.
1The only university in SA to have all its assessed Psychology and Cognitive Sciences research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
This could be you
Hear from UniSA staff and former Psychology students Dr Alex Agostini and Dr Stephanie Centofanti on where a degree in Psychology can take you.
Your career
A career in psychology requires a strong interest in human behaviour; you also need to be able to think clearly and logically, to be compassionate, understanding and patient.
Careers to consider include:
- Behavioural ecologist: work with animals analysing behavioural patterns; behavioural ecologists may work at museums, zoos and aquariums.
- Change management consultant: work with organisations offering strategic advice to improve workplace productivity and performance as well as organisational change.
- Training and development coach: advise organisations on learning and professional development obligations.
- Case manager: work with human services and community programs providing support for individuals and families in aged care, migration and rehabilitation.
- Youth worker: work with young people providing support and encouragement.
- Disability support worker: provide support for people in the community with intellectual, physical, social and emotional disabilities.
- Community development officer: work with cities, neighbourhoods or other municipalities to ensure the growth, health and vitality of a region.
- Counsellor (with further study): work with individuals in a confidential setting helping them to overcome problems.
- Social policy adviser: provide advice on social policy issues and gather information to develop, support and implement social policies.
- Registered psychologist or research psychologist (with further study): work with patients to identify and diagnose emotional, mental and behavioural issues.
You could further improve your employment prospects with further study. Students can apply to transfer into the full four-year Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree if they have achieved a minimum GPA of 6 and have completed between 4 courses and 2.5 years of a UniSA bachelor degree. To become a registered psychologist or research psychologist, you will need to complete further study. Find out more.
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
Industry facts
To apply for this degree, click on the button below.
If you’re still deciding, making note of the SATAC Code of the degree so that you can find it when you add it to your SATAC preferences.
The SATAC code for Bachelor of Psychology is: 444211
You can apply to SATAC via the button below.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Social Sciences (Psychology)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences)
- SAIBT Diploma of Art
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your study spaces
As a psychology student, you will have access to dedicated teaching and learning spaces, including:
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory
- Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory
- Psychology Clinic.
Your program director
You will graduate from your Psychology program with a knowledge of theories and concepts, along with critical and analytical research skills through a mix of practical and theoretical learning opportunities. I look forward to working with you to understand how the skills and knowledge you will develop can be applied to your chosen career pathway – either as a psychologist or in a broad range of other career opportunities.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
"My education at UniSA went beyond reading a textbook – it gave me the ability to practise what I learned. I am now a supervisor at Lifeline where I can make a difference in the community. I plan to study a master's qualification to further my career as a clinical psychologist."
Francesco Forgione
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Counsellor, New ROADS: Uniting Communities
"Psychology at UniSA has an excellent balance between research and hands-on practice - the standard of teaching combined with the state-of-the-art facilities prepares students for what they want to do after graduation. The inclusion of counselling courses and psychology placements also makes it a unique degree, providing both the skills and real-world experience needed for a variety of careers including disability support work and counselling."
Chris Ghan
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Psychologist, SA Health
