University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree builds a foundation in general psychological theory and research methods while offering focused units on brain structure and function, cognitive processes and applied neuroscience techniques. Early study typically covers introduction to psychology, research methods and statistics, developmental and social psychology, and biological bases of behaviour. Specialist cognitive neuroscience units may include cognitive psychology, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, psychopharmacology, cognitive neuropsychology, and neural bases of perception and memory.

Practical laboratory work is emphasised: expect hands-on classes using behavioural methods, EEG/ERPs and psychophysiological recording, plus training in experimental design and data analysis. Many students undertake a substantive research project or capstone in later years, supervised by academic staff, and opportunities exist for coursework or short placements that connect theory to clinical, educational or industry contexts.

• Core psychology foundations (developmental, social, clinical introductions)
• Research methods and quantitative analysis for psychology
• Biological psychology, neuroanatomy and neurophysiology
• Cognitive psychology: attention, memory, language, perception
• Applied cognitive neuroscience techniques (EEG, psychophysiology, neuroimaging principles)
• Research project or honours pathway preparation

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on completion of secondary schooling (or an equivalent qualification) with academic achievement that demonstrates readiness for university-level science and social science study. Applicants should have competence in English; the University accepts recognised English language tests and alternative pathways for those who do not meet direct English requirements.

The programme welcomes applicants with prior study in sciences such as biology or chemistry, and mathematics or statistics is advantageous because of the quantitative component of the degree. Mature-age applicants and those with relevant tertiary study or vocational qualifications may be considered through alternative admission schemes.

Domestic applicants should consult the University of Adelaide admissions pages for specific documentation and pathway options; international applicants should check accepted English language tests and visa-related requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a combination of psychological theory, research skills and neuroscience knowledge that is valuable across research, health and industry settings. Typical early-career roles include research assistant in cognitive or clinical labs, allied health assistant roles, rehabilitation support, or positions in human factors, usability and user experience teams where understanding cognition is important.

For professional practice as a registered psychologist, graduates usually need to progress to an accredited honours year or a postgraduate professional sequence (master’s or registrar programs) that leads to registration. Other pathways include further study in neuroscience, speech pathology, occupational therapy, education or data science. Employers range from university and hospital research groups to private clinics, policy organisations, tech companies and government agencies.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers access to active research groups in neuroscience and cognition, with laboratory facilities and staff expertise in neurophysiology, neuroimaging principles, and cognitive experimental methods. The programme emphasises strong research training alongside applied skills, preparing students for honours and postgraduate research or applied careers.

Students benefit from small-group tutorials, supervised research projects and opportunities to collaborate with clinicians and industry partners in Adelaide’s health and research precincts. The degree also provides clear pathways to postgraduate professional training required for clinical practice as a psychologist.