Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This program builds core knowledge across the major areas of psychology—biological, cognitive, developmental, social and abnormal psychology—alongside the practical skills needed for evidence-based assessment and intervention. In the undergraduate component you will study foundational subjects such as research methods, statistics for psychology, psychological measurement and assessment, lifespan development, and learning and cognition.

The honours year focuses on advanced research methods and statistics, specialised topics in psychology, and completion of an individual research project (honours thesis) under academic supervision. Typical honours subjects include advanced experimental design, multivariate statistics, qualitative and quantitative research techniques, research ethics, and a supervised research dissertation. Students also engage with critical appraisal of research, theory development and professional practice issues in psychology.

Entry requirements

Entry to the four-year honours program normally requires completion of an accredited three-year psychology program (or equivalent) that meets Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) standards, or progression from Southern Cross University’s own accredited bachelor sequence. Applicants must meet Southern Cross University’s general admission criteria and the program’s academic prerequisites, which typically include a required level of academic achievement in prior tertiary study. Candidates for the honours year are usually selected on the basis of academic performance and suitability for supervised research; a formal application to the honours stream is required.

Career prospects

Graduates with an honours qualification are well placed to pursue further professional training in psychology, including postgraduate coursework and research degrees that lead to registration as a psychologist. The degree also opens pathways into research assistant and laboratory roles, casework and support roles in health and community services, human resources and organisational roles, and positions in government and not-for-profit sectors that require expertise in behavioural science.

Typical job roles for graduates include research assistant, behavioural support worker, mental health support officer, policy officer, and roles in program evaluation and community services. For those aiming for professional practice as a psychologist, honours provides the research and academic preparation required for entry to postgraduate professional programs (Master’s or Doctoral level) or other advanced accreditation pathways.

Why study at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, practical laboratory facilities and access to experienced, research-active academic staff. The university’s psychology discipline emphasises hands-on research training and applied learning, including opportunities to undertake supervised projects and placements that develop professional skills.

Students benefit from supervised honours projects, mentoring from academics, and access to university facilities that support psychological research and practice. The program is structured to align with national accreditation standards and to prepare graduates for both further study and a wide range of careers that draw on psychological knowledge and research skills.