University of Western Australia

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced coursework in psychological theory, research methods and applied workplace practice. Core topics typically include psychometric test development and validation, personnel selection and assessment, performance appraisal and management, leadership and organisational change, occupational health and wellbeing, training and development, work design, and ethics in professional practice.

Students can expect a strong emphasis on research methods and statistics (including multivariate techniques), practical skills in assessment and intervention, and applied projects. The degree normally includes a practicum or professional placement and a substantial capstone — either a research thesis or an applied consultancy project — allowing you to apply methods to real organisational problems.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree with a major in psychology or an equivalent fourth-year sequence that meets the Australian psychology accreditation pathway. Entry typically requires a demonstrated background in core psychological science and research methods; some programmes also specify a minimum academic standing (for example a credit or honours level), relevant professional experience and referees.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence. Short-listed applicants may be asked to provide a CV, academic transcripts and in some cases participate in an interview or submit a statement of purpose outlining their interest in industrial and organisational psychology.

Career prospects

Graduates work across a wide range of settings where people and performance intersect. Typical roles include:

• Organisational/industrial psychologist in consulting firms or in-house people and culture teams
• Recruitment and assessment specialist, designing selection systems and assessment centres
• Learning and development practitioner, coaching and capability building
• Occupational health, employee wellbeing and resilience program specialist
• Change management and organisational development consultant
• People analytics and HR data specialist, using quantitative methods to inform workforce decisions
• Research roles in universities, government agencies or private research organisations

Completing this master’s also supports pathways to further professional registration or specialist college membership where applicable, and can be a stepping stone to doctoral research for those interested in an academic or high-level research career.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA offers a research-led psychology faculty with staff who specialise in workplace psychology, assessment and wellbeing. The programme benefits from access to established research facilities, psychometric resources and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across business, health and engineering faculties.

Situated in Perth, the university has strong industry connections across government, healthcare and resource sectors, which supports practicum placements and applied projects. Students also gain from a supportive postgraduate community, professional development opportunities and links with local and national practitioners in industrial and organisational psychology.