This degree provides a balance of courses in psychology theory and counselling – for graduates this means you will enter the workforce with a strong understanding of psychology, as well as the analytical, communication and interpersonal skills needed to work with individuals, groups and communities.

You will study a range of topics, including counselling and interpersonal skills; psychological theory; and specialist psychology courses. You will also be encouraged to engage in research projects and participate in community service activities, and through work experience placements in your third year of study you will gain valuable practical experience. Practical learning is a focus of this degree, it enhances your work-readiness. The value of this study component has been recognised nationally in the form of an award from the Australian Federal Government Office of Teaching and Learning.

You can become even more employable by combining your Bachelor of Psychological Science (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills) degree with another degree. With just one year of extra study you can graduate with a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills), Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management) degree. You can discuss the possibilities with Campus Central.

What you'll need

All students studying this degree will be required to complete criminal history screening through the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion prior to being accepted for work placements. The clearance is valid for three years and can take up to eight weeks to be processed. You must also hold a current Child Safe Environments Certificate. Some placements may also require a current driver's license and a recognised First Aid Certificate.

What you'll learn

This is a specialised degree that will provide you with a solid understanding of the theory associated with psychology and counselling, as well as critical and analytical thinking skills, data management skills and research skills. You will study a range of courses that cover behavioural research methodologies, cognitive and technical skills and counselling practice. You will also study innovative topics, such as:

• conservation psychology
• cognitive psychology
• counselling
• effective communication
• sleep psychology
• discursive and conversational analysis
• psychology and Indigenous Australians
• research methods

You will then get the opportunity to implement your knowledge in a real-world environment when you complete a work placement during your final year of study.

A career in psychology and counselling requires a strong interest in human behaviour; you also need to be able to think clearly and logically, to be compassionate, understanding and patient. If you think you’ve got what it takes, the employment opportunities are excellent, with predicted growth expected in Australia in both the social and welfare sector, and for counsellors1. Careers to consider:

• behavioural ecologist: work with animals, analysing behavioural patterns; behavioural ecologist may work at museums, zoos and aquariums
• community development officer: employed by a city, neighbourhood or other municipality to ensure the growth, health and vitality of a region
• crime prevention officer: educate people about crime and crime prevention methods; teach young people about the consequences of crime. May also work with victims of crime
• disability support officer: provide support for people in the community with intellectual, physical, social and emotional disabilities
• drug/alcohol case worker: provide counselling support to individuals and families affected by drug/alcohol
• human resources manager: plan, implement and enhance an organisation's employee relations, as well as the organisation's policies, programs and practices
• training officer: look after an organisation's learning and professional development obligations
• counsellor (with further study): work with individuals and groups to help people overcome problems

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council. On completion of the program, graduates will have met the prerequisites to apply for fourth year programs in Psychology.

Graduates are eligible to apply for level 1 membership of the Australian Counselling Association, provided that they have attended all practicals in the BEHL 2013 and BEHL 3018 courses during the degree.