The Bachelor of Psychological Science provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding the theoretical bases of the scientific discipline of psychology, for the development of skills in critical and analytical thinking, for understanding the underpinnings of the professional applications of psychology and for developing capabilities to design, conduct and evaluate psychological research.
The course will consist of an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) three year psychology sequence and incorporates units from other discipline areas. This combination enables students to acquire knowledge and practical skills beyond those gained through their specialist study of psychology.
The course has been developed in alignment with the School of Psychological Sciences’ educational philosophy which provides students with a comprehensive and flexible approach to evidenced-based theoretical and practical learning. The course is delivered through a combination of lectures and small group laboratory classes and tutorials. Students will be involved in research activities and projects, data analysis and laboratory experiments as essential elements through which students develop an understanding of psychology principles and their applications to real-world problems and contexts. Adopting an international perspective, but with an Australian emphasis, the course addresses key issues from differing cultural perspectives providing students with training that is of relevance to working in a global context.
Graduates will be provided with the pre-requisite knowledge and skills to apply for entry to an Honours program in Psychology (or a Graduate Diploma of Psychology) and subsequent postgraduate training in a professional Psychology stream leading to registration as psychologists in Australia.
The course draws on the core science and principles of psychology to provide students with an understanding of psychological theory and its application to the individual in the context of contemporary society. It presents biological and social explanations of behaviour. Students acquire the academic knowledge, skills and attributes better to understand human behaviour and the social world; to interpret and analyse relevant research data; to comprehend and evaluate new information, concepts and evidence from a range of sources; to understand the importance of working within ethical guidelines; and to communicate effectively in both oral and written modes.
Graduates will be equipped to think critically and analytically within an ethical context; to work effectively with people and systems; to understand and apply psychological principles and theories; and to work within an extensive range of private and public sector industries. They will be able to integrate theory with practice in a range of industries or to continue to work towards their professional qualifications and registration as psychologists.