Curtin University

What you'll study

This professionally oriented master’s combines advanced coursework, supervised practicums and an applied research component. Core study areas typically include psychological assessment and diagnosis, evidence‑based interventions (for example cognitive–behavioural and third‑wave approaches), advanced psychopathology, psychometrics, neuropsychology, lifespan development, ethics and professional practice, and advanced research methods and statistics.

Practical training is a major feature: students undertake multiple supervised placements across a range of clinical and community settings, applying assessment, formulation and intervention skills under registered supervisors. You will also complete an applied research project or dissertation that integrates research literacy with clinical practice.

Typical modules and subjects

• Advanced Psychological Assessment and Measurement
• Clinical Formulation and Evidence‑Based Interventions
• Advanced Psychopathology
• Neuropsychology and Cognitive Assessment
• Research Methods and Statistics for Practitioners
• Ethics, Professional Practice and Law in Psychology
• Practicum/Clinical Placement(s)
• Applied Research Project/Dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants generally need an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)‑accredited four‑year sequence in psychology (for example a bachelor degree with honours or equivalent fourth year). Competitive entry normally requires a strong academic record in the psychology sequence; additional selection criteria can include relevant professional experience, referee reports, a personal statement and an interview.

If you trained overseas, you will need to demonstrate equivalent academic preparation in psychology and meet Curtin’s requirements for international qualifications and English language proficiency. Successful applicants must also satisfy any professional suitability checks required for placements (for example police clearance and working with children checks where applicable).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in clinical and health‑related psychology roles in hospitals, community mental health services, private practice, rehabilitation services and non‑government organisations. The program provides the professional competencies required to progress towards registration as a psychologist and to undertake supervised practice pathways that lead to endorsed or specialist registration where relevant.

Typical job titles held by graduates include Clinical Psychologist (following required registration and supervised practice), Mental Health Clinician, Neuropsychology Associate, Rehabilitation Psychologist, and positions in allied health teams, private practice and public health services. Graduates also move into research, teaching and policy roles that draw on advanced clinical and research training.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin’s School of Psychology and Speech Pathology is research active and closely connected with health services across Western Australia, offering students access to contemporary clinical training environments and multidisciplinary collaboration. The program emphasises hands‑on learning through supervised placements, supported by experienced academic and clinical supervisors and facilities designed for assessment and intervention training.

Studying at Curtin gives you opportunities to link applied practice with research projects, benefit from industry partnerships for placements, and build the professional networks needed for a career in applied psychology. The university also provides student support services tailored to postgraduate professional students, including career guidance, placement preparation and research supervision.