Psychology (Honours) (Psychology)

The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at the University of Southern Queensland is an advanced undergraduate program designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of psychological principles, theories, and research methodologies. This honours pathway provides a comprehensive exploration of both foundational and specialized areas within psychology, equipping graduates with the skills necessary for professional practice, research, or further academic pursuits. Throughout the degree, students engage in a variety of coursework that covers key disciplines such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and clinical psychology. The program emphasizes critical thinking, empirical research, and ethical considerations in psychological practice.

A distinctive feature of the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) is the research component, which involves conducting a significant independent research project under academic supervision. This experience allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world issues, develop advanced analytical skills, and contribute original insights to the field. The coursework is designed to meet the accreditation standards set by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), preparing graduates for registration as psychology practitioners. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue postgraduate study, such as Master's or Doctorate programs in Psychology, or to enter the workforce in roles that require a strong psychological foundation.

The program also incorporates opportunities for experiential learning, internships, and collaboration with industry professionals, ensuring students gain practical skills alongside academic knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes the application of psychological science to solve practical problems in diverse settings, including healthcare, education, business, and community services. The University of Southern Queensland is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, with access to experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive resources to enhance student success. Graduates of the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) emerge as competent, ethically responsible professionals ready to contribute positively to society through evidence-based practice and continuous professional development.

Program structure

Courses to be studied

Units

Core courses 30 

Plus 2 x Electives2

Total    32

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

PSY1010Foundation Psychology A

PSY1020Foundation Psychology B

PSY1030Cross-Cultural and Indigenous Psychology

PSY1101Critical Thinking

PSY1102Interpersonal Skills

PSY1104Psychological Skills A

PSY1105Psychological Skills B

PSY2010Social Processes of Behaviour

PSY2020Motivation and Emotion

PSY2030Developmental Psychology

PSY2040Human Information Processing

PSY2050Facilitation and Negotiation

PSY2100Research Methods in Psychology A

PSY2104Psychological Skills C

PSY2105Psychological Skills D

PSY3010Assessment of Behaviour

PSY3030Abnormal Psychology

PSY3050Counselling Psychology

PSY3104Psychological Skills E

PSY3105Psychological Skills F

PSY3111Research Methods in Psychology B

PSY4001Psychology Honours Project 11

PSY4002Psychology Honours Project 21

PSY4020Ethical and Professional Practice

PSY4030Skills and Issues in Counselling

PSY4065Positive Psychology: Theory and Application

PSY4070Advanced Assessment

PSY4111Advanced Research Approaches

STA2300Data Analysis

Electives:Select two from the following:

PSY3730Industrial and Organisational Psychology

PSY3110Clinical Health Psychology

PSY3080Human Factors2

PSY3250Sport Psychology

PSY3120History and Systems of Psychology2

PSY3101Career Assessment and Development2

Footnotes

1  1.5 units.

2  This course must be taken via distance education.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent

Note: Entry into the 4th or Honours year of the program is only available to students who have completed the first three years of the program and, in the psychology courses, maintained a GPA of 5.0 or above.

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 14/69

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

Note:  Entry into the 4th or Honours year of the program is only available to students who have completed the first three years of the program and, in the psychology courses, maintained a GPA of 5.0 or above.

The University of Southern Queensland offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Psychology (Honours) program to support their educational pursuits. Domestic students have access to a range of financial aid schemes, including government-funded loans such as FEE-HELP, which assists eligible students in covering tuition fees. This loan is a voluntary, income-contingent loan that helps reduce upfront costs and can be repaid through the Australian taxation system once the student's income reaches a certain threshold. Additionally, students may be eligible for scholarships, grants, and bursaries provided by USQ, which recognize academic excellence, financial need, or specific student categories. These financial awards are designed to lessen the economic burden associated with higher education and encourage talented students to undertake their studies.

International students enrolled in the Psychology (Honours) program can explore various tuition fee payment plans, including upfront payments, partial fee payments, or enrolment in the university’s installment schemes. USQ also offers some scholarship opportunities specifically for international students, which require an application process and are awarded based on academic merit or other criteria such as country of origin or intended field of research. Moreover, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as government grants or private scholarships available in their home countries. USQ's financial support services provide comprehensive guidance on navigating available options and applying for financial aid, ensuring students can access the necessary resources to complete their studies without undue financial hardship.

Apart from direct financial assistance, students may also benefit from part-time employment opportunities on or near campus, allowing them to earn supplementary income while studying. The university's careers and employment services can connect students with relevant part-time roles, internships, and industry placements that complement their academic pursuits and provide practical experience in the field of psychology. Many students leverage these work opportunities to manage their study expenses more effectively, gaining invaluable skills and industry connections along the way.

Overall, USQ is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for both domestic and international students pursuing the Psychology (Honours) program. The university's comprehensive range of financing options, including government loans, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and financial planning advice, ensure that students can focus on their academic and professional development without excessive financial stress. However, students should consult the university's official financial aid office regularly for updated information on eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and specific supports available for their circumstances.

The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in psychology and related fields. The program builds on foundational knowledge acquired during undergraduate studies, providing advanced understanding of psychological theories, research methodologies, and practical applications. It typically involves coursework in areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and mental health. Students are also engaged in supervised research projects, enabling them to develop critical skills in scientific inquiry and data analysis. The Honours year often emphasizes independent research, culminating in a thesis that contributes to the existing body of psychological knowledge. Graduates of this program are equipped with the theoretical and practical skills necessary for postgraduate study, professional practice, and roles in health, education, and social services. The curriculum aligns with Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) standards, ensuring recognised qualifications for further registration as a psychologist. The program promotes a multidisciplinary approach, fostering skills in communication, ethical practice, and cultural competence. With access to modern laboratories and research facilities, students gain hands-on experience in psychological assessment and intervention techniques. The University of Southern Queensland's strong focus on applied psychology ensures graduates are well-prepared for real-world challenges. The program also encourages engagement with the community and participation in internships, providing valuable industry connections. Overall, the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) aims to develop scientifically minded, ethically responsible, and culturally aware practitioners who can contribute effectively to psychological science and service delivery.