Psychology

Psychology degrees offered by the Faculty of Science:

• Graduate Diploma in Psychology - for graduates in other disciplines to obtain a Psychology major.
• Graduate Certificate in Positive Psychology - for students interested in the study of positive psychology.
• Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Master of Health Psychology - an articulated postgraduate program for students interested in the theory and practical applications of health psychology.
• Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Master of Coaching Psychology - an articulated postgraduate program for students interested in the applied science of human performance enhancement and coaching.

Course outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the graduate will have a Psychology major, accredited by the Australian Psychological Society, equivalent to that available in the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Economics (Social Science), Bachelor of Liberal Studies or the Bachelor of Arts and Sciences. They will have studied all basic areas of experimental Psychology, statistical methods in Psychology, and a range of optional topics. They will be eligible to apply to continue to a fourth year in Psychology (Honours) and from there to a higher degree in Psychology.

Eligibility for admission

Applicants holding relevant degrees

The Faculty of Science may admit to candidature applicants who hold the award course of Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Economic & Social Sciences, Bachelor of Liberal Studies or Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from the University of Sydney, or equivalent degree as deemed by the faculty, who have not previously completed a major in Psychology. Applicants must have already successfully completed 12 credit points of Junior Psychology (currently PSYC1001 and 1002) or equivalent within the last 10 years. When assessing an applicant, both undergraduate record and UAI (or equivalent) may be taken into account.

Method of progression

Students are required to study a minimum of 48 credit points of intermediate and senior level Psychology. This shall consist of 24 credit points of Intermediate Psychology (currently PSYC 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014) and a minimum of 24 credit points of Senior Psychology including PSYC3018. Students must complete the necessary qualifying units of study for entry into later units of study. Normally, progression will be over a minimum of four semesters. Students may study additional senior Psychology if they wish.

Study in Psychology beyond the Graduate Diploma

To be eligible for study in Psychology beyond the graduate diploma at the University of Sydney, students must, except with School approval, include PSYC3010 Advanced Statistics for Psychology for entry to Psychology 4 (Honours). Successful completion of HPSC3023 History and Philosophy of Psychology and Psychiatry is essential for students intending to take the Theoretical Thesis option in Psychology honours.

Exemptions and Advanced Standing

Students may apply for exemptions if they have already completed studies which the faculty deems equivalent to those in the program. Such units of study must have been completed within the previous 10 years. The number of exemptions allowed will not exceed Faculty of Science regulations or will not exceed 24 credit points, whichever is the lower.

Units of study table