Study Bachelor of Psychology at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for Australian students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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Australian students

Start Date
February
July

Campus
Magill

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBPU

SATAC Code
444211 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Fees
Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Admissions
Student Profile

Entry Scores
2023 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 67.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2022 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 67.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
View full entry requirements

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.

Recent secondary education ATAR profile

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 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
None

Assumed Knowledge
None
View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

Join Australia's No. 1 university for work-ready graduates in psychology¹.
Ranked South Australia’s No. 1 university for psychology research².
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.
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.

¹ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – 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).

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.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Psychology 1A	BEHL 1003	4.5
Personal and Professional Development	BEHL 1033	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Psychology 1B	BEHL 1004	4.5
Introductory Research Methods	BEHL 2005	4.5
Aboriginal Australians and Psychology	BEHL 1032	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Developmental Psychology	BEHL 3011	4.5
Cognitive Psychology	BEHL 3002	4.5
Psychology Applications	BEHL 2024	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Social and Community Psychology	BEHL 2006	4.5
Biological and Learning Psychology	BEHL 2012	4.5
Career Development	BEHL 2021	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Personality Psychology	BEHL 3024	4.5
Specialist Psychology Course		4.5	Note(s): 2
Specialist Psychology Course		4.5	Note(s): 2
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Clinical and Abnormal Psychology	BEHL 3004	4.5
Specialist Psychology Course		4.5	Note(s): 2
Psychology Placement	BEHL 3027	9	Note(s): 3,6
OR
2 Electives		9	Note(s): 1,4

Majors, Sub-majors & Minors

Students may choose a Major/Sub-major/Minor from any available on the University Major/Sub-major/Minor web page.

Majors, sub-majors/minors

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Specialist Psychology Courses
Health Psychology	BEHL 3012	4.5
Advanced Research Methods	BEHL 3005	4.5
Work and Organisational Psychology	BEHL 3008	4.5
Health, Exercise and Sport Psychology	HLTH 3014	4.5
Cognitive Neuroscience	BEHL 3021	4.5
Language, Context and Social Behaviour	BEHL 3023	4.5
Conservation Psychology	BEHL 3022	4.5
Psychology Research Experience	BEHL 3028	4.5
Psychophysiology of Sleep	BEHL 3029	4.5
Exploring the History and Foundations of Psychology	BEHL 3037	4.5
Further Practical Experience
PSW Undergraduate Study Tour	WELF 3028	4.5
Community Service Learning Project 1	EDUC 4186	4.5
Community Service Learning Project 2	EDUC 4187	4.5

Rules & notes

Notes

1. Electives may be selected from courses offered as undergraduate electives, subject to any prerequisite requirements. A list of recommended courses can be found here: https://study.unisa.edu.au/electives

2. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at UniSA or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, BEHL 3005 Advanced Research Methods. Specialist Psychology Courses are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.

3. Students who choose to take this course are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and to have completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, National Police Check, Responding to Abuse and Neglect training, or recognised First Aid Certificate.

4. Electives may be used to create a Major, Sub-major or Minor in another discipline area. A Major consists of a sequence of 8 specified courses (36 units) from a single discipline. A Sub-major consists of a sequence of 6 specified courses (27 units) from a single discipline. A Minor consists of a sequence of 4 specified courses (18 units) from a single discipline. Students wishing to be eligible to apply for the Master of Teaching should seek advice from the Master of Teaching Program Director before selecting a Major/Sub-major.

5. Students who have completed 90 hours of volunteering may be eligible to apply for credit for a 4.5 unit elective.

6. Students wishing to take this course BEHL 3027 Psychology Placement out of program sequence, in Study Period 2, should seek advice from the Program Director.

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).

Real-world connections

You will have the opportunity to undertake industry placements in your final year and complete 150 hours in a real workplace. Here you will build important industry networks and develop relationships that may be pivotal as you transition into the workforce after graduation.

We also host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Hear what it is like to study Psychology at UniSA

Hear about Shachi Shah's experience studying a Bachelor of Psychology at UniSA.

Career outcomes

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

Employment for social and welfare professionals in Australia is projected to increase by 39,300 (24.3 per cent) by May 2024.

Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019

By 2024, employment for counsellors in Australia is projected to increase by 24.8 per cent.

Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.

Australian Government Department of Employment 2019

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Art

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.

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you're eligible for credit from previous studies.

Go to credit assessor

Entry pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

Find a Pathway

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.

More scholarships

UniSA Excellence Scholarships

$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.

Learn more

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.

Learn more

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 campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

As a psychology student, you will have access to:

Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory
Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory
Psychology Clinic
Dedicated teaching and learning spaces

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.

Dr Elissa Pearson

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Elissa Pearson

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

Applications for admission into the University of South Australia’s undergraduate and most postgraduate degrees are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Visit satac.edu.au and follow the links.

For the MBA degrees please apply through the UniSA MBA Application Portal. Applications for a small number of degrees are submitted direct to UniSA through our Apply Online portal. It will be noted on the degree page if you need to apply via Apply Online.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

Undergraduate
Yes. The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be given equal consideration is in 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 (mid January). Some degrees will not make any offers after the main offer round. Please click here find all of the key dates for applications here.

Postgraduate
Most postgraduate degrees do not have a closing date for applications. However, there are exceptions, so it is best to check – either on the SATAC website, Apply Online or the degree homepage. Postgraduate offers are normally ‘rolling’, meaning they may be sent out at any time up until the program starts. This also means that applications may close at any time without warning, if the quota is filled earlier. For this reason, postgraduate applications should be submitted without delay. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquiries team on (08) 8302 2376 or via the online enquiry form.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

Credit transfer or advanced standing

You may be eligible to receive a credit transfer 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 a credit transfer will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

Recognised prior learning

If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning for this experience. Receiving recognised prior learning will normally reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and can reduce the duration of the degree.

How do I get credit?

Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director who will discuss your prior learning and experience with you to ascertain what credit you may be eligible for.

Many of our credit transfer arrangements are listed on our online Credit Assessor.
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.

If you are interested in studying an MBA please contact admissions@unisa.edu.au and our Future Student Enquiries team will contact you regarding your enquiry.

Alternatively, you can complete a MyCareerMatch career profile. MyCareerMatch is an online career profiling tool that you can use free-of-charge through UniSA. MyCareerMatch specialises in career profiles and provides you with a personalised career report outlining information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.

We have many events throughout the year where you can speak with a lecturer or tutor about your degrees of interest. You can find out what is happening at UniSA by visiting our events page or by signing up to our mailing list, so you're the first to know about careers events, information sessions, degree requirements, scholarships and more!

There are also many career counsellors external to the University that you can discuss your career options with. If you are unsure where to start your search, you can contact the Government's Work Ready team (formally Skills for All). Visit skills.sa.gov.au or call 1800 506 266.

You may also find Job Outlook a helpful resource in your decision-making.
Where can I get further information?

It can be difficult to decide what degree you would like to do and where. You might find information from government organisations will help to weigh up your degree and provider options.

Find a course or a provider

TEQSA is a regulatory body for higher education providers. Use the TEQSA national register of higher education providers to search for a course or a provider. Compare courses and providers for undergraduates and postgraduates using the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) online comparison tool.

More information on university admission

Visit the SATAC website to find out important news, events and information on applying to university in South Australia. Visit Study with Us to find out everything you need to know about studying at UniSA, admissions and the application process.

Questions about your application

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application you should contact the Future Students Enquiries team in the first instance.

More FAQs

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)
Supervisor, Lifeline Australia

Francesco Forgione

Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Supervisor, Lifeline Australia

"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