Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology)

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology) at the University of Melbourne enjoys an excellent reputation as one of the premier clinical neuropsychology programs in the country and produces graduates with a detailed understanding of the affective, behavioural and cognitive manifestations of diseases of the central nervous system, particularly those affecting the brain, in adults and children.

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology) is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as providing the required sequence of subjects for graduates wishing to attain generalist registration as a psychologist in Australia, as well as competency in knowledge and skills relevant to the clinical neuropsychology specialisation.

Graduates acquire competence in various approaches to the study of brain disease, including basic and applied clinical sciences, and are expected to acquire an understanding of culturally responsive, objective assessment of the many behavioural features of brain diseases that can present across the lifespan.

Graduates should demonstrate the skills and knowledge needed to work as clinical neuropsychologists.

• Graduates will acquire advanced knowledge of the clinical neurosciences that apply to the practice of clinical neuropsychology and an understanding of how these apply to the investigation of cerebral disease and injury.

• Graduates will be able to evaluate and diagnose neuropsychological disorders with reference to internationally accepted consensus criteria and taxonomies.
• Graduates will be able to employ advanced communication skills in reporting to and consulting with referral sources.
• Graduates will be able to implement psychological interventions tailored to the needs of the individual and evaluate the effectiveness and efficacy of interventions.
• Graduates will be able to utilise appropriate referral pathways to further clinical care.
• Graduates will be able to investigate substantive scientific questions relevant to the field of clinical neuropsychology.

Graduates should demonstrate knowledge of the range of settings in which clinical neuropsychologists work and will have skills and knowledge that enables them to engage in competent and reflective practice in a variety of neuropsychological settings. They will demonstrate the ability to consult and collaborate with colleagues, including those from other professions. They should also demonstrate an understanding of ethical principles and reasoning in psychological research and practice, particularly with reference to the Australian Psychological Society Code of Ethics and NHMRC National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.