Psychology
Graduates with relevant psychology qualifications may have access to a range of career opportunities in Australia. Depending on the specific qualification, occupation, and eligibility requirements, some psychology-related occupations may also provide potential pathways toward skilled migration and permanent residency.
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Psychology occupations covered under ANZSCO codes 272311–272314 and 272399 may be included in relevant skilled occupation pathways, subject to the current requirements and occupation lists at the time of application.
Psychology is an allied health and scientific discipline focused on understanding human behaviour, mental processes, and the factors that influence how people think, feel, and act. It covers areas such as cognitive development, behaviour, emotions, and the impact of both internal and external factors on individuals.
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Australia offers a range of recognised psychology programs through its universities, providing students with opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed for careers in the field.
Bachelor's Degrees
A psychology-focused bachelor's degree covering human behaviour, cognition, development, mental health, research and psychological practice. It is generally designed as a foundation for further professional psychology study.
Bachelor of Psychology
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Psychology. Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
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Find a course that matches your interests and career goals. Select a course below to explore available institutions and study options in Australia. Compare different institutions and discover programs that suit your academic background and future plans. If you need help choosing the right course or institution, our team is here to guide you through your options.
This degree focuses on the scientific study of human behaviour, cognition, mental health and psychological processes. It commonly provides a foundation for careers involving people, research and further professional psychology study.
Bachelor of Psychological Science
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Psychological Science. Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
This degree provides a broad foundation in psychology, including human behaviour, cognition, development, personality and psychological theory. It can also provide a pathway to further psychology study.
Bachelor of Psychological Studies
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Psychological Studies. Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
This degree focuses on the scientific study of human behaviour, including psychological processes, cognition, development and social behaviour. It provides a psychology-focused foundation with an emphasis on behavioural science.
Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology). Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
This combines psychology with the broader study of arts and humanities. Students develop knowledge of human behaviour while also having flexibility to study other disciplines and areas of interest.
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology). Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
This combines psychology with a broader scientific curriculum. Students study human behaviour and psychological processes using scientific methods, research and statistical analysis.
Bachelor of Science (Psychology)
Where can you study this course?
Explore the Australian universities offering a Bachelor of Science (Psychology). Select a university below to learn more about the course, entry requirements, and application process.
Entry Requirements for Psychology Courses
VET Programs
Entry requirements vary between institutions and courses. Applicants generally need to have completed Year 12 or an equivalent qualification and meet the required English language standard.
Undergraduate Programs
Applicants generally need to have completed Year 12 or an equivalent qualification. English language requirements vary between universities and courses, so students should check the specific requirements of their chosen institution.
Postgraduate Programs
Applicants normally need to have completed a relevant bachelor's degree or an equivalent overseas qualification. Additional academic prerequisites and English language requirements may apply depending on the course and university.
Student Visa Requirements
International students applying for an Australian Student visa may need to provide:
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A valid passport and identity documents
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Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) or other required evidence of enrolment
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Evidence of financial capacity, where required
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Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
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Evidence of English language ability, where required
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Any additional documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs
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The exact documents required depend on the applicant's circumstances. The Department of Home Affairs' Document Checklist Tool should be checked before submitting a visa application.
Career Opportunities in Psychology
Psychology graduates can pursue careers across a range of areas, including:
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Mental health and community services
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Counselling and support services
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Human resources
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Organisational and workplace services
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Education and student support
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Research
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Community and social services
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Students who wish to become registered psychologists in Australia need to complete an approved education and training pathway and meet the registration requirements set by the Psychology Board of Australia.
A bachelor's degree in psychology alone does not qualify a graduate for general registration as a psychologist. The current registration pathways involve further accredited study and training.
Psychology and Migration Pathways
Some psychology-related occupations may be eligible for Australian skilled or employer-sponsored visa pathways, depending on the occupation, visa program and the applicant's individual circumstances.
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Potential pathways can include skilled, employer-sponsored, regional and graduate visa options. However, completing a psychology degree does not guarantee permanent residency.
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Eligibility may depend on factors such as:
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The nominated occupation
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Relevant qualifications
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Skills assessment requirements
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Professional registration, where applicable
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English language ability
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Work experience
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Points or nomination requirements
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The requirements of the particular visa
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Australian skilled occupation settings can change, and different visa programs use different occupation classifications and requirements. Students should check the current Department of Home Affairs requirements before making migration decisions.
Psychology Registration Pathway
For students who want to become a registered psychologist, the Australian pathway generally involves substantially more than a three-year bachelor's degree.
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An approved psychology education and training pathway can involve a six-year sequence of education and training, with different pathways available depending on the qualification and career goal.
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Students interested in professional psychology should therefore consider the complete pathway—from undergraduate study through postgraduate training and registration—when selecting a course.