Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The program provides a broad foundation across the core areas of psychology, combining theoretical learning with hands-on research and applied practice. Typical subjects include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, biological bases of behaviour, personality theory, abnormal psychology, and lifespan psychology. Strong emphasis is placed on research methods and statistics, with subjects in experimental design, data analysis and a research project or capstone experience. Applied units often cover psychological assessment, ethics and professional practice, intervention strategies and community mental health.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes and workshops, with opportunities for supervised practical experience in community settings or simulated assessment tasks. Students can often choose elective topics to tailor their study—examples include health psychology, organisational psychology, forensic psychology and addiction studies. Completion of the undergraduate sequence is designed to meet the academic threshold for progression to honours and accredited postgraduate professional training in psychology.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Psychological Science typically requires completion of a recognised secondary qualification or an equivalent qualification for mature-age applicants. Applicants are assessed on academic achievement, and some campuses or modes may consider prior tertiary study, relevant work experience or a personal statement. International applicants must meet ACU's English language proficiency standards. Competitive entry may be based on a selection rank rather than a fixed quota, and pathways such as enabling programs or alternative entry schemes are available for eligible students.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor of Psychological Science have a range of career options in human services, health, education, business and research. Common entry-level roles include research assistant, case worker, community services officer, mental health support worker, rehabilitation officer, or roles in human resources and training. Many graduates choose to continue to an honours year or accredited postgraduate program (for example, a Master of Professional Psychology or a Doctorate in Clinical or Counselling Psychology) to become a registered psychologist. The degree also provides a solid foundation for further study in allied health, counselling, social work, public health, education, or organisational development.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers psychology teaching with an emphasis on ethical practice, social justice and applied learning. Small-group tutorials and lab work support close contact with teaching staff, and the university provides structured pathways from undergraduate study to honours and professional postgraduate programs. ACU’s campuses and clinical partnerships enable practical learning opportunities and community engagement, and students benefit from research-informed teaching and access to support services including career development and academic skills assistance. The university’s values-driven approach aims to produce graduates who are reflective, responsible and ready for work or further professional training.