Bachelor of Psychological Studies

In this psychology course you'll study everything to do with people - from why we behave in the way that we do, to the different ways we communicate in our relationships.

Our Bachelor of Psychological Studies covers fascinating topics related to thinking and behaviour, including memory, learning, motivation and emotion. You'll explore pyschological and personality disorders, and come to understand the importance of sleep, healthy living, and stress management. By exploring different approaches to counselling, you'll develop a deep understanding of the strengths and limitations of clinical practice.

You'll have the opportunity apply your learning in a community, government service or education setting, through our placement program.

Our psychology degree will prepare you for a career in diverse areas including community services, marketing, employee support and development, or teaching.

A degree in Psychological Studies can help you understand yourself and others, complement other learning and develop your analytical skills.

You can start a career in fields such as:

• welfare
• community services
• human resources
• marketing
• research
• policy-making
• counselling.

You can also undertake further study to qualify as a teacher, social worker or registered psychologist. As a psychologist, you could be employed in one of several thriving industries including health care, public administration or education.

See the average salary for psychologists in Australia via Labour Market Insights. Starting salaries for graduates may be different.

If you continue on to postgraduate studies in psychology, you will work with clients in the VU Psychology Clinic. The Clinic provides discounted psychological services to the community.

Assessment and treatment for anxiety, learning difficulties and difficult life events are provided by provisional psychologists who are supervised by experienced clinical psychologists.

To attain the Bachelor of Psychological Studies, students will be required to complete 288 credit points, consisting of:

• 96 credit points of Core First Year studies;
• 120 credit points of Core Psychology studies;
• 24 credit points of Psychology Elective studies, and;
• 48 credit points of Minor studies.

Use our credit calculator to find out how much credit you could get towards your course, based on your previous study.

If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.

Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course chair or academic adviser.

Before applying, you should consider whether you also want to apply for:

• Special admission programs: Depending on your life circumstances you may be eligible for special consideration of your application.
• Advanced standing: If you have significant experience or studies elsewhere you may be eligible for credit for some units of your course and not have to undertake them.

Find out more about applying for our courses.