Bachelor of Psychology
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
MBPU
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
AUD$ 32,400 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
036236E
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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
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 3.5 Canada High School (OSSD) 65 Eynesbury FSP 320 German Abitur 3.5 Kenya KCSE (average) B Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 31 Norway GPA 3 Pakistan HSSC 80 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 7 Sweden GPA 13 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 7 Vietnam 7.5 Australia 67 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1110 India (best 4) State Board 75 India (best 4) Central Board 65 HKDSE 15 Nepal NEB 2.51
Degree overview
- Join Australia's Top 10 university for graduate skills in psychology1.?
- UniSA’s psychology research is recognised globally as world-class2.
- Gain industry experience through a work placement in your final year.
- Gain a well-respected qualification that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
- Learn in 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 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 #6, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities. 2 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
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.
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
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
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:
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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 international 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:
- career advice and mentoring
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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.
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How to apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
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
