Master of Applied Psychology (MAppPsych) + Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

If you're working towards becoming a registered psychologist and have completed your fourth year, this course combines a Masters-level accreditation with a PhD comprised of extensive research. If you are already working as a registered psychologist you'll gain specialist skills in clinical practice combined with extensive research.

Clinical psychology focuses on a strict scientist-practitioner model that emphasises a systematic problem-solving approach that will prepare you with the skills you need for clinical casework. You'll learn how to apply your skills and knowledge in clinical psychology and work with individuals and groups across the lifespan. In addition, the PhD will allow you to build skills in written and oral communication, you'll learn how to manage a large project through to completion, and become an expert on your research topic.

To be considered for entry, you'll need to have a strong academic record equal to at least IIA honours, and a supervisor who is able to supervise your PhD. You will be exempt from the Masters thesis requirement, and complete a 12-point external placement unit concurrently with your PhD commitment. While candidates are advised to complete the first year of the Masters course prior to beginning the PhD, it is possible to begin your PhD first.

Coursework and placement are organised according to the area of specialisation, and it is a requirement that the topic of the PhD must relate to the field of clinical psychology.

Build essential skills and knowledge to meet your career or study goals. Topics you'll cover include:

• clinical assessment, interviewing, diagnosis, and test administration
• psychotherapy and evidence-based practice in clinical psychology
• a range of approaches for working effectively with children, families, and adults in their social and cultural context
• clinical assessment and treatment of health problems, as well as neurodevelopmental disorders and disabilities across the lifespan
• working and communicating effectively with other professionals in clinical planning, assessment, and implementing interventions.

Psychologists are emerging as highly employable professionals in contemporary health services given their strong grounding in effective interventions, solid assessment skills and their ability to devise and implement research. Employment growth for Clinical Psychologists is expected to be strong following recent government initiatives such as Medicare-rebated services.

You will be able to take up professional roles working as a senior clinician but maintaining strong links with academia on the basis of your strong research training and skills.

You will be highly employable in a wide variety of areas, including private practice as a registered psychologist and working in various public and private sector agencies. You could work in the following areas: health, community development, justice, education, and disabilities. You will also be highly employable in universities and other research settings.