Educational and developmental psychologists focus on how people develop and learn throughout their lifetime. They work with individuals, families, groups and organisations in a range of settings and have varying roles such as school psychologist, guidance officer, and child and adolescent counsellor. They conduct psychological and educational assessments and instructional planning for exceptional children, adolescents and adults.

The course develops you as an independent specialist with a professional commitment to lifelong learning and application of the theoretical, research, assessment and therapeutic skills related to educational and developmental psychology.

You will develop advanced understanding of, and the skills associated with:

• human developmental stages and processes throughout the lifespan
• psycho-educational assessment and treatment approaches for problematic or atypical development
• advanced therapeutic counselling process and the cycle of effective intervention and change
• contemporary models of exceptionality and inclusion
• evidence-based intervention and treatment programs for psychological problems and psychopathology across the lifespan
• contemporary research and theories of abilities, personality and psychopathology
• ethical, cultural and professional issues
• administering and reporting a range of essential psycho-educational assessment instruments for assessing abilities, personality and adjustment of children through  to adults

In undertaking a research thesis, you will develop an evidence based approach to psychology, carrying out reviews and scientific investigations relevant to the theory and practice of educational and developmental psychology.

WORK PLACEMENT Yes

PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

The Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology is an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) accredited fifth and sixth-year sequence in psychology and prepares graduates to practise as educational and developmental psychologists in settings including schools, health and welfare services, care facilities, and within business environments.

As a graduate, you will be qualified to register as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA). You will also meet most requirements for membership of the College of Educational and Developmental Psychologists of the Australian Psychological Society.

A fourth year of psychology study from any course accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), which may be a Graduate Diploma or Bachelor's honours degree, with at least a distinction (70%) average in fourth year psychology.

These qualifications must have been completed within the last 10 years.

Applicants with international qualifications will need to have their qualifications assessed by the Australian Psychological Society (APS).

In addition, applicants must provide evidence of demonstrated suitability for work as a professional psychologist determined by completion of a supplementary form and satisfactory referee reports (one academic and one professional), relevant voluntary or paid work experience, and an interview.