For as long as humans have lived, we’ve sought to understand ourselves and others in a deeper way.
Psychology explores thoughts, emotions, behaviour and the connections between the three. It aims to understand how people act and think in various situations. Through this program you’ll learn about how new knowledge is created through psychological research, complete your own research project, and build pre-professional skills for practice in the helping professions.
Becoming a psychologist in Australia involves completing a minimum six-year sequence of study to obtain registration. Our four-year Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) is your first step on the path towards registration. It also opens the door to a number of psychology-related careers.
Prepare for a rewarding career in a fascinating and dynamic field with our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
Learn to think like a psychologist as you dive deep into the core theories, principles and methods that underpin the field of psychology. Study real-world problems in a variety of personal, professional and community contexts. Examine human development across the lifespan, and the psychological health considerations at different stages of life. Discover techniques to develop rapport with clients, ask insightful questions, and communicate clearly with cultural and ethical sensitivity.
Reflect on information sources and validity, developing important skills in critical thinking. Learn how to undertake psychological research, analysing and interpreting data to draw insightful conclusions. Contribute new knowledge to the field, through completing a major independent research project under the guidance of our exceptional researchers.
Throughout your studies, you’ll apply your skills in real-world settings – with up to 100 hours of placement in either an industry or research-focused internship.
Students wishing to become a registered psychologist will need to undertake further study after completion of this program. Students would need to apply for a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) 1 year (Program code: HBPSY), and a Master of Psychology program (Master of Psychology (Clinical), (Program code: MAPSC); OR Master of Psychology (Health), (Program code: MAPSH); OR Master of Psychology (Organisational and Human Factors), (Program code: MAPSO).
Develop a solid understanding of the core concepts, theories, principles and methods of psychology.Gain interpersonal and technical skills that are transferable and in high demand across a range of industries.Apply your understanding of human behaviour in a variety of real-world contexts.Learn how to design and implement psychological interventions in health, clinical and organisational settings.Complete 100 hours of placement in either an industry or research-based internship.Undertake a major independent research project under the guidance of our world-class researchers.Gain a solid grounding in the key theories, concepts, principles and methods that underpin the field of psychology. Through a range of core courses, you’ll develop your critical thinking, analytical and research skills – enabling you to apply insights about human behaviour in a variety of contexts.
First year will introduce you to key psychological theories, including topics in health and developmental psychology. You’ll also explore culturally safe and respectful ways of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in psychological contexts.
In your second and third year, you’ll examine how psychological principles and theories can be applied to help unpack and make sense of larger societal and global issues. You’ll also dive deeper into the areas of health and developmental psychology, individual behaviour and cognition, organisational psychology and explore more advanced psychological research methods.
In third year, you’ll complete up to 100 hours of placement through either an industry or research-focused internship at a mental health or community organisation. Here, you’ll acquire practical experience and establish valuable industry connections.
Throughout your studies, you’ll learn how to undertake psychological research, analysing and interpreting data to draw insightful conclusions. In your final year, you’ll apply what you’ve learned through completing a major independent research project under the guidance of our world-class researchers. This experience provides a valuable opportunity for you to bridge the gap between research and practice and contribute new knowledge to the field.
The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after one year of study with a standalone Diploma or after two years with an Associate Degree.
You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the Diploma, and continue on to complete the Associate Degree (two years) or full bachelor degree.
Complete 192 units comprising:
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
Complete 192 units comprising:
Complete 138 units comprising:
Common core description
Common core courses are interdisciplinary courses that build key graduate capabilities.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
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Course code
COREX001
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Units
6
|
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Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
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Course code
COREX002
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Units
6
|
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Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
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Course code
COREX003
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Units
6
|
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Course name
Transforming Learning through First Nations Knowledges
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Course code
COREX004
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Units
6
|
|
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Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
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Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
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Course name
Building Belonging: Navigating Cultural Complexities
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Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
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Course code
PSYC1000
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Units
6
|
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|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
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Course code
PSYC1001
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Units
6
|
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|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
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Course code
PSYC1002
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Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
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Course code
PSYC1003
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Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
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Course code
PSYC1012
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Units
6
|
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Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
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Course code
PSYC2000
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Units
6
|
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Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
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Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
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Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
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Course code
PSYC2003
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Units
6
|
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|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
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Course code
PSYC2009
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Units
6
|
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|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
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Course code
PSYC2010
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Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
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Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
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Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
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Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
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Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychological Interventions and Applications
|
Course code
PSYC4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interviewing and Interpersonal Skills for Psychology
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Course code
PSYC4001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Skills for Psychological Assessment
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Course code
PSYC4002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology Research Project
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Course code
PSYC4004
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Psychological Research Evidence in Professional Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC4800
|
Units
6
|
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
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Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 48 units comprising:
To become a psychologist in Australia, you must complete a minimum six-year sequence of study to achieve registration. The first step on this journey is completing our four-year Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), followed by additional postgraduate study.
Alternatively, the strong understanding in human behaviour gained through our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) provides an exceptional foundation for work in a diverse range of areas where an understanding of human behaviour is key.
Maybe you’ll take on a community caseworker role, improving outcomes for vulnerable people and their communities. You could work as a change management consultant, applying your insights to assess the potential impacts and opportunities for organisational change. Or perhaps you’ll research attitudes and consumer behaviour as a market analyst, helping businesses develop new strategies for reaching their target audiences.
Other areas you might work include:
Graduates with deep understanding of human behaviour are highly sought-after in many industries including education and training, public health, market and consumer research and technology industries.
With waitlists for mental health services continuing to climb, the demand for qualified mental health professionals has never been greater (APS, 2022). Additionally, the healthcare and social assistance professions are consistently the largest employing industry sectors in Australia. In 2024 alone, the number of registered health professionals grew by 21% to employ around 13.8 million people (AIHW, 2024). With your qualification from Adelaide University, you’ll be well positioned for a rewarding career with plenty of potential for growth.
This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Graduates will be eligible to apply for postgraduate study in psychology.
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Program Director
College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences
School of Psychology
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
