Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This program covers core areas of psychology and gives students practical research experience. Typical topics include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive and biological bases of behaviour, social and personality psychology, abnormal psychology, and lifespan approaches to mental health. Substantial components focus on research methods and quantitative and qualitative statistics so students learn to design studies, collect data, analyse results and communicate findings.

In addition to discipline-specific units, students study ethics and professional issues, psychological assessment fundamentals, and electives that allow exploration of applied areas such as clinical psychology, health psychology, organisational psychology, or forensic psychology. A capstone research project or research-practicum unit is usually included to consolidate skills and support progression to fourth-year honours or postgraduate pathways.

Entry requirements

Entry is open to applicants who have completed an approved secondary school qualification or equivalent. Domestic applicants are typically assessed on their secondary results (for example an ATAR or equivalent) and may also be admitted through alternative entry schemes such as recognition of prior learning or a portfolio for mature-age applicants. International applicants must hold a recognised secondary qualification and meet English language proficiency requirements.

Certain professional placements or practicums that form part of elective or applied units may require background checks and a current working with children check or equivalent. Specific entry thresholds and pathways (including credit for previous tertiary study or cross-institutional transfers) are published by the university and can vary by intake and applicant category.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for a variety of roles in the community, health and business sectors. Common early-career positions include research assistant, case worker, community support worker, mental health support officer, rehabilitation worker, human resources assistant, and roles in policy or program administration. The degree also provides the academic foundation necessary to apply for an accredited fourth-year honours program or postgraduate professional training (such as a psychology master’s or professional doctorate) required for registration as a psychologist.

Skills developed in the course—critical thinking, data literacy, communication, ethical practice and understanding of human behaviour—are valued in allied professions such as education, social services, public health, organisational development and market research.

Why study at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers a student-centred learning environment with relatively small class sizes, which supports close contact with academic staff and practical feedback on research projects. The university has active research groups in mental health and wellbeing, clinical and community psychology, and applied behavioural science, providing opportunities to engage with current research and industry-informed teaching.

SCU emphasises applied learning and regional engagement, with opportunities for workplace-relevant experiences and industry links across health, community services and education sectors. The program is delivered across multiple campuses and through flexible study modes, making it accessible to on-campus and distance learners. For students intending to become registered psychologists, the degree provides the foundational coursework required to progress to honours or postgraduate professional programs.