Psychological Science

The Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of New South Wales provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. This undergraduate program is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of psychological theories, research methodologies, and practical skills necessary for a variety of careers in psychology and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore core areas such as developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive processes, neuropsychology, and clinical psychology, enabling them to understand the complexities of human functioning across different contexts and populations. The program emphasizes empirical research, critical thinking, and ethical practice, preparing graduates for professional roles in health, education, business, and government sectors. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on research projects, internships, and collaborative learning experiences, fostering essential skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication. The Bachelor of Psychological Science also provides a pathway for those wishing to pursue postgraduate studies in psychology, including Honours or further specialized training to become a registered psychologist. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students are encouraged to undertake innovative research that contributes to the understanding and improvement of mental health and wellbeing. The curriculum is designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to address real-world challenges in diverse settings. By studying psychological science at UNSW, students join a vibrant academic community guided by experienced researchers and practitioners committed to advancing psychological knowledge and practice. The program aims to not only develop highly skilled psychologists but also to foster critical thinkers who can apply psychological insights to enhance individual and societal wellbeing.

Stage 1

• PSYC1001 Psychology 1A (6 UOC)
• PSYC1011 Psychology 1B (6 UOC)
• PSYC1111 Measuring Mind and Behaviour (6 UOC)

• 30 UOC electives 1(see 'Notes' below)

Recommended elective (this course is not required but is recommended as a good complementary course for this program; it is only available to first-year students who have taken less than 48 UoC of Level I units):

• PSYC1031 Science of Resilience (6 UOC)

Stage 2

• PSYC2001 Research Methods 2 (6 UOC)
• PSYC2061 Social and Developmental Psych (6 UOC)
• PSYC2071 Perception and Cognition (6 UOC)
• PSYC2081 Learning & Physiological Psych (6 UOC)

• PSYC2101 Assess Person Psychopathology (6 UOC) 2 (see 'Notes' below)
• 18 UOC electives 1(see 'Notes' below)

Stage 3

• PSYC3001 Research Methods 3 (6 UOC)
• PSYC3011 Psychological Applications (6 UOC)

• 18 UOC of Level III Psychology courses from the elective streams A and B below (at least one course from each of the two elective streams must be completed)3(see 'Notes' below)
• 18 UOC electives 1(see 'Notes' below)

Electives Stream A:

• PSYC3051 Physiological Psychology (6 UOC)
• PSYC3211 Cognitive Science (6 UOC)
• PSYC3221 Vision and Brain (6 UOC)
• PSYC3241 Psychobiol of Memory&Motivat'n (6 UOC)
• PSYC3311 Language and Cognition (6 UOC)
• PSYC3371 Multivariate Data Analysis (6 UOC)

Elective Stream B:

• PSYC3121 Social Psychology (6 UOC)
• PSYC3141 Behaviour in Organisations (6 UOC)
• PSYC3301 Psychology and Law (6 UOC)
• PSYC3331 Health Psychology (6 UOC)
• PSYC3341 Developmental Psychology (6 UOC)
• PSYC3361 Research Internship (6 UOC)

Notes:

1. As part of these electives students may need to take courses to satisfy the UNSW General Education Requirements. Please see 'General Education' below for further information. Where students elect to complete a complementary major, some or all of these electives will be used to satisfy the requirements for the complementary major. If undertaking a complementary major outside the Faculty of Science, students are not permitted to take GEN-coded courses to satisfy their free elective requirements.
2. PSYC2101 Assess Person Psychopathology can be taken in Stage 1 Semester 2 to facilitate completion of a complementary major.
3. Please be aware that not all Level III Psychology courses are offered each year.

Complementary majors available in this program:

• Neuroscience
• Vision Science*
• Human Resource Management (HRM)
• Management
• Marketing
• Linguistics
• Criminology
• Philosophy

• High school degree
• IELTS Academic version only 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)
• TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) 90 overall (min.23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)
• TOEFL Paper-based Test  (PBT) 577 overall (min. 5.0 in TWE)

The University of New South Wales offers a range of financial support options for students enrolled in the Psychological Science program. Domestic students can access Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which significantly reduces the tuition fees by subsidizing a portion of the costs through government funding. These CSPs are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit, requiring students to meet specific entry criteria and maintain satisfactory academic progress. For students who are not eligible for CSPs or wish to receive additional financial assistance, UNSW provides various scholarship programs. These include academic scholarships, which are awarded based on prior academic achievement, as well as equity scholarships designed to support students from diverse backgrounds and those facing financial hardship.

International students enrolled in Psychological Science are required to pay full tuition fees, but they can benefit from a range of scholarships offered specifically for international students, such as the International Scientia Coursework Scholarship or the Adjustment Scholarship, which can significantly offset the costs of study. In addition to scholarships, UNSW offers various financial aid options, including emergency grants and payment plans, to help students manage their financial responsibilities during their studies.

Students are also encouraged to consider external funding opportunities, such as government loans and private scholarships, to support their education costs. The university's Financial Aid Office provides detailed guidance and support to help students navigate available options and apply successfully for assistance. Furthermore, students working part-time during their studies can find relevant employment opportunities through UNSW’s career services, which may help to offset expenses and gain valuable work experience in their field.

Overall, UNSW is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for students pursuing Psychological Science, offering comprehensive financial support programs to ensure that financial barriers do not impede educational goals.

The Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of New South Wales is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the core areas of psychology. This degree equips students with knowledge in cognitive, biological, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, preparing them for a variety of careers in mental health, research, or further specialization through postgraduate study. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, including research methods, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations in psychological practice.

Students in the program have opportunities to engage in research projects, gain hands-on experience through internships, and develop critical thinking and communication skills essential for working in diverse settings. The curriculum is structured to ensure a broad understanding of psychological theories and principles, while also allowing some specialization in areas such as clinical psychology, forensic psychology, or health psychology. The program typically spans three years for full-time students, with options for part-time study depending on the student's circumstances.

UNSW’s state-of-the-art facilities and supportive academic environment foster a vibrant learning community. Students benefit from access to experienced faculty members, research centers, and collaborations with industry partners, which enhance their educational experience and employability prospects. Graduates of the Bachelor of Psychological Science are well-prepared to pursue postgraduate studies required for registration as a psychologist or to enter related fields such as social services, human resources, or organizational consulting. Additionally, the program incorporates a commitment to ethical practice, cultural competence, and evidence-based approaches, aligning with contemporary standards in psychology.

The UNSW program also emphasizes lifelong learning and the development of skills that are applicable beyond psychology, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. International students are supported through a range of services, and the university’s diverse community enriches the learning environment. Overall, this program aims to produce competent, ethical, and reflective psychologists who can contribute effectively to the well-being of individuals and communities.

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