If you’re working towards becoming a registered psychologist and have completed your fourth year, this course provides you with the first step required in the 5+1 pathway.

You’ll undertake coursework, practicum, and research to gain specialised knowledge of psychological practice. Gain the work-ready skills in assessment (e.g. Mental State Exam, WAIS) and intervention (e.g. CBT, family-based interventions) all based on the latest psychological approaches and research findings in a supportive learning environment.

Develop the personal and professional skills you need in practice by completing two practicums, either within our on-campus clinic, or through an internship at an external workplace. If you’re already working in a psychology setting, you may undertake practical experience at your own workplace (by arrangement with the practicum co-ordinator). You’ll be guided in your development of clinical-based learning through placements in Murdoch’s on-campus psychology clinic.

This course provides a pathway into the Master of Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) based on performance and availability of places. There is also a school stream in the degree, which allows you to be employed within the Education Department of WA as a School Psychologist.

Entry to this course is very competitive and requires a recognised and accredited undergraduate psychology degree, plus either Honours in Psychology (with at least 2A Honours), a Graduate Diploma in Psychology (with a distinction average), or a Bachelor of Psychology with evidence of relevant experience in the field.

5 reasons to study a Master of Applied Psychology (Professional) at Murdoch

• You’ll study in a highly engaged professional psychology environment that is both flexible and supportive.
• Learn from leading academics and experienced clinicians who are committed to helping you succeed in your studies.
• Gain skills that will be useful in a variety of psychological services.
• Gain professional experience with real people either through our on-campus psychology clinic, or with the School Psychology Service.
• Establish a network of valuable industry contacts through your practical placement that will open up employment opportunities when you graduate.

Develop your skills

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

• suicide prevention
• assessment for adults and children
• intervention with children and adults
• counselling
• how to work in a functioning psychology clinic.

Job prospects for professional psychologists are very good and employment growth is expected to be strong. Upon graduation from this course, students will be highly employable in a wide variety of areas including private practice (once you have met registration requirements) and working in various public and private sector agencies.

You could work in the following areas: health, community development, justice, education, and disabilities. Those students who complete the school stream will be employable in the State Education Department’s School Psychology Service.

Careers could include:

• School Psychologist (if the school stream is completed)
• Clinical Psychologist (if you gain entry after completing the Masters of Applied Psychology Professional)
• paediatric assessment services
• disability sector work
• alcohol and drug counselling.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) within the newly developed 5+1 training pathway. The course is recognised by Psychology Board of Australia and the Australian Psychological Society (APS).

Once the course is completed, graduates can apply to the Psychology Board of Australia for registration as a psychologist and for membership of the APS. To obtain full endorsement by the Psychology Board of Australia as a Professional Psychologist, graduates are required to complete one year of practice under supervision within a psychology internship.