Psychologists are experts in human behaviour who help people change how they think, feel and behave. They apply their knowledge of psychology – the scientific study of the mind and behaviour – to assess challenges and implement strategies for positive change among individuals, families and communities.
With a projected 13.3 per cent increase in psychology positions in Australia by 2026 and a high workplace satisfaction score amongst the profession, psychology provides a dynamic, rewarding career path in more ways than one.
Before we dive into how to become a psychologist in Australia, let’s go back to basics and answer some key questions like, “What is psychology?” and “What is the role of a psychologist?”. We’ll also cover some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming a psychologist, plus the education, training and skills it takes to get there.
What is psychology?
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) defines psychology as the scientific study of human behaviour. By understanding the cognitive and biological functions of the human mind, psychology professionals can help their clients make positive changes to their behaviour and reactions.
What is a psychologist?
A psychologist’s role is to help people change their thoughts, feelings and behaviour patterns. Psychologists apply their scientific understanding of the mind and human behaviour to assist individuals, couples and groups across a range of areas including mental health, substance abuse, sports and performance, disability, and juvenile justice.
What is the role of a psychologist?
A psychologist undertakes assessments to identify the challenges a client is facing, develops and implements interventions to address these challenges, and monitors the outcomes of the interventions put in place. Below, we’ll explore some of the areas a psychologist might specialise in and what these roles involve.
Forensic psychologist
Forensic psychologists, also called criminal psychologists, apply psychological theory to criminal investigations. They explore the psychological conditions associated with criminal behaviour and the treatment of those who have committed offences. Criminal psychologists also counsel crime victims, revise policies to improve the effectiveness of the criminal justice system, and support the rehabilitation of those with criminal tendencies.
Child psychologist
A child psychologist is a mental health professional who uses psychological evaluations and various forms of therapy to help children and adolescents learn to better cope with challenges in their personal relationships, school or home life, and mental health conditions.
Sports psychologist
A sports psychologist or performance psychologist supports athletes, coaches and teams to overcome challenges associated with performance enhancement, mental skill development, anxiety and stress management, focus, and health and wellness. They develop strategies to improve their clients’ confidence, motivation and management of injuries to help them reach their full potential.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A PSYCHOLOGIST?
Becoming a registered psychologist in Australia takes a minimum of six years. This can be achieved through six years of study (the higher degree pathway) or five years of study plus one year of practical learning (the 5+1 pathway).
Now that we’ve explored what a psychologist does, let’s learn more about how to become a psychologist.
How to become a psychologist in Australia
To forge a successful career as a psychologist in Australia, you must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. To be eligible for registration, you’ll need to complete a six-year education and training program comprising:
- An accredited three-year bachelor’s degree in psychology
- An accredited fourth year of studies in psychology (honours year)
After completing one of the available accredited psychology courses in Australia, you will become eligible for postgraduate study. To become a registered psychologist, you will be required to complete two additional years of education and training through one of two postgraduate pathways:
- Higher Degree Pathway (two years of postgraduate study through an accredited master’s program in psychology); or
- The 5+1 Pathway requires one additional year of study (such as the Master of Professional Psychology) plus one year of supervised work placement (such as the Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology Practice).
When you choose to study at ACAP, the recommended pathway to becoming a registered psychologist is the following:
- Complete a three-year Bachelor of Psychological Science
- Complete a fourth year (honours) program such as the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
- Complete a one-year Master of Professional Psychology AND complete a one-year Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology Practice, OR Complete the two-year Master of Psychology (Clinical) program.
This study pathway will allow you to become a registered psychologist as quickly as possible and will position you for a successful career in psychology.
What qualifications are needed to become a psychologist?
If you’re wondering what qualifications are needed to become a psychologist, you’re not alone. While the recommended pathway consists of an accredited undergraduate degree followed by postgraduate studies and professional supervision, this can vary if you’ve already completed an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field, and requirements are different again if you’ve completed a degree in an unrelated field.
Our expert Course Advisors are here to help you cut through the noise and determine which psychology study pathway is best for you. Book a call with our team today to discuss your options.
Frequently asked questions about psychology
Is it hard to become a psychologist?
A common question among students looking to study a degree in the helping professions is, “Is it hard to become a psychologist?”.
Studying to be a psychologist takes dedication, with a minimum six-year commitment to education and training to become registered. However, with over 37,000 professionals currently holding a psychology registration in Australia*, you’re in good company if you’re looking to pursue a career as a psychologist.
While psychology might be renowned for being a challenging profession, it’s also an incredibly rewarding one that allows you to make a real-world difference in the lives of others.
*Australian Psychology Board, 2023.
What is a provisional psychologist?
As you begin to research psychology degrees, you might find yourself asking, “What is a provisional psychologist?”.
This term is used to describe a psychology student who has completed their undergraduate studies and is in the process of completing their additional workplace training and postgraduate course.
During this time, you’re able to apply for provisional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia, working towards a general registration that allows you to use the job title ‘psychologist’.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Wondering about the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? The main difference between these two professions is that a psychiatrist has trained as a medical doctor and can prescribe medication, whereas a psychologist is not a medical doctor and cannot prescribe medication.
What’s the difference between psychology, counselling and social work?
When it comes to choosing a career path in the helping professions, it can be difficult to know which road to take. As many roles within the helping professions have some overlap in responsibilities, it’s not uncommon for prospective students to ask, “What’s the difference between psychology, counselling and social work?”.
Fortunately, we’ve got a blog post dedicated to this exact topic! Learn more about the difference between psychology, counselling and social work and discover which career is right for you.
What is the difference between a psychologist and therapist or psychotherapist?
Similar to our previous FAQ, another common question students ask is, “What’s the difference between a psychologist and a therapist or psychotherapist?”. In Australia, psychologists and therapists or psychotherapists differ in their education, industry regulations, and scope of practice.
Psychologists, who are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), typically have at least six years of higher education and training in psychology and are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health disorders.
In contrast, psychotherapists may come from diverse training backgrounds and are not regulated by AHPRA. While their focus is on providing therapy for emotional and mental health issues, they may not be formally qualified to undertake assessments or provide interventions.
Additionally, psychologists are more likely to be covered by Medicare and private insurance, whereas coverage for psychotherapists can vary. Some psychologists focus on conducting research rather than providing therapy, whereas all therapists and counsellors provide some type of therapy to their clients.
Is becoming a psychologist a good career path?
“Is becoming a psychologist a good career path?” is a multifaceted question – let’s break it down by demand, salaries, and benefits of psychology as a profession.
- Demand for psychologists: According to Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), Australia’s demand for psychologists has a 13.3 per cent projected increase in job opportunities from 2021-2026 (creating an additional 31,500 positions).
- Salary of psychologists: The average full-time psychologist salary in Australia is $108,569 per year or $55.68 per hour (reported by Talent).
- Benefits of becoming a psychologist: The ability to practise in an endorsed area, flexible work opportunities, and a rewarding career path are among the top benefits of becoming a psychologist in Australia.
How much do psychologists earn?
“How much do psychologists earn?” can be a tricky question to answer as a psychologist’s salary is dependent on their training, specialisation, and whether they work full-time or part-time.
In general, SEEK estimates the earning bracket for Australian psychologists to be between $95,000 to $110,000. Interestingly, Labour Market Insights reports that 52% of psychologists work full-time, meaning a significant proportion of psychologists work on a part-time basis.
What skills are needed for psychology?
Wondering what skills are needed for psychology? We’ve got you covered! According to Labour Market Insights, the top 10 most reported skills utilised by psychologists are:
- Social perceptiveness
- Active listening
- Reading comprehension
- Articulation & speaking ability
- Active learning
- Serving others
- Writing
- Complex problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Monitoring.
When you choose to study an accredited psychology course at ACAP, we ensure you’ll master these key skills and more. Our students graduate with the practical, applicable knowledge that employers are looking for.
Combined with our extensive industry connections, renowned academic excellence, and unrivalled student support, you’ll be well-equipped to take on the world and make a real degree of difference.
Now that you know how to become a psychologist, you’re ready to embark on a life-changing pathway! It all starts at ACAP – enquire today.
