Psychology

The School of Psychology is part of the Faculty of Science. Units of study in this major are available at standard level.

Programme structure and content

Psychology is the study of behaviour and it is approached on a scientific basis, with provision for professional training at the postgraduate level. The research activities of the School cover almost all of the main branches of the discipline. Extensive information about the subject and the School is available on the School website: sydney.edu.au/science/psychology.

A major in Psychology that is accredited by the Australian Psychological Society and can lead to registration as a Psychologist in NSW (upon completion of further studies) can be gained through a number of degree programs.

A normal three year sequence required for a major in Psychology is:

PSYC1001, PSYC1002, PSYC2011/2911, PSYC2012, PSYC2013, PSYC2014, PSYC3018 and at least three Senior units of study selected from PSYC3010 (required for entry into Honours), PSYC3011, PSYC3012, PSYC3013, PSYC3014/3914, PSYC3015, PSYC3016, PSYC3017, PSYC3020 and HPSC3023.

Mid-year entry is possible and involves modification of this sequence.

First year planning for a Psychology major

Essential: 12 credit points of Junior Psychology (PSYC1001 and PSYC1002).

Recommended: 12 credit points of Junior units of study in Mathematics, including MATH1015 or MATH1005/1905 (Statistics), 12 credit points of Junior Science electives and 12 credit points of Junior electives.

Requirements for a major

For a major in Psychology, the minimum requirement is 48 credit points across intermediate and senior psychology units of study, including PSYC2111 or PSYC2011/2911, PSYC2112 or PSYC2012, PSYC2113 or PSYC2013 and PSYC2114 or PSYC2014.

No other intermediate psychology units can be counted towards the major. You must complete at least 24 (30 for BPsych) credit points of Senior Psychology for a major. The senior units must include PSYC3018. Students who want to be eligible for entry into the Honours program must also include PSYC3010.

Note: HPSC3023 Psychology & Psychiatry: History & Phil is available for senior Psychology students and will count towards a major in Psychology. Successful completion of this unit of study is essential for students intending to take the Theoretical Thesis option in Psychology Honours.

Honours

Entry requirements:

1. a Bachelor's degree from a recognised university and an acceptable three-year major in Psychology obtained within the past 10 years (Please note: All undergraduate students in the faculty of Arts and Social Sciences must complete their Honours requirements within no more than 10 years from commencement of candidature in their pass degree. Detailed information can be found at: sydney.edu.au/handbooks/arts/rules/faculty_resolutions.html
   which includes
2. at least 48 credit points of Intermediate and Senior Psychology
   AND
3. a minimum credit average result in second and third year Psychology units. NB. This is a minimum requirement. It may not be sufficient because the strength of the cohort varies each year.
   AND
4. completion of a statistical methods unit at third year level
   AND
5. successful completion of a History and Philosophy of Psychology unit at third year level only if you wish to be considered for the Theoretical Thesis option.
   AND
6. a SCIWAM of at least 65 only if you are a Science Faculty student
   Admission is offered on a merit and competitive basis.

Honours contact

Dr Barbara Mullan
Email:

Further information

http://sydney.edu.au/science/psychology/current_students/accred_psychology_major.shtml