Doctorate (PhD)
Interrelated streams of theory, research and practice provide the skills needed to become a registered psychologist.
Our award winning teaching strategies and learning resources, include simulation and competency-based assessment approaches.
The course is based on the scientist/practitioner model that rests firmly on a foundation of established knowledge and current evidence-based research.
Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) covers clinical psychology across the lifespan and also includes a focus on the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and families.
You will have opportunities to develop clinical skills in our unique clinics imbedded in public mental health and through placements in an array of community agencies.
You will undertake a program of independent supervised research that makes a significant and original contribution to the knowledge and practice of clinical psychology.
Clinical psychologists are specialists in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychological and mental health conditions that range from mild to severe and complex. They are often involved in designing and implementing a diverse range of prevention and mental health promotion programs, and may work with infants, children, adolescents, adults and older adults. Graduates typically are employed in one of the many government and non-government agencies that employ clinical psychologists in either community or hospital settings. After some years of practice and clinical supervision, some clinical psychologists establish a private practice. In addition to professional practice, clinical psychologists may be involved in research, teaching and supervision, program development and evaluation, public policy and other activities that promote psychological health in individuals, families and groups.
To complete the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) students must attain 24 credit points covering three strands: theory, research and practice.
This is a full-time course, designed for completion within 3.5 to 4 years. It is comprised of three inter-related strands of theory, research, and practice.
The coursework units are in the first and second trimesters, with placement and thesis components undertaken throughout the entire year (Trimesters 1, 2 and 3). In the later part of the third year and into the fourth year, students will focus on completion of their thesis. Some students will be ready to submit their thesis earlier than the maximum completion time. Students should note that delays in either completion of the research thesis or delays in accessing or completing placements may mean that the duration of the course may be extended.
The course formally commences in early February, when students are required to attend an orientation session and commence work on their thesis.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Credit for coursework can be approved only if it is strictly equivalent to coursework in the current course and was successfully completed in an APAC accredited course within the previous ten years. Credit for placement experience completed as part of their current employment can only be given if it is of direct relevance to the course, would ordinarily be undertaken by a qualified psychologist, and if supervision fulfils all of the usual requirements of course placements. Credit cannot be provided for previous employment experience prior to entry into the course as it is not integrated into the overall learning undertaken during the course. Credit cannot be provided for previous research experience, including research higher degrees.