Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This online master's focuses on advanced clinical knowledge, evidence-based interventions and applied professional practice. Core learning areas include diagnostic formulation and clinical assessment, advanced psychotherapy models (including cognitive–behavioural, interpersonal and trauma-focused approaches), neuropsychological and developmental assessment, and tailored interventions for children, adolescents, adults and older people.

• Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Formulation
• Psychotherapy with Individuals and Families
• Trauma, Complex and Comorbid Presentations
• Neuropsychology and Cognitive Assessment
• Child and Adolescent Clinical Practice
• Ethics, Professional Practice and Cultural Competence (including working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
• Clinical Supervision and Leadership
• Research Methods and a capstone clinical project or practicum portfolio

Study is typically delivered through a combination of online coursework, synchronous seminars, case-based learning, a supervised practicum in accredited clinical settings and periodic on-campus or intensive workshops to practise assessment and therapy skills. Assessment methods include case reports, videoed clinical work, reflective practice logs, written assignments and a final applied project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to be registered psychologists with the relevant national registration body in their jurisdiction (for example, AHPRA registration in Australia). Typical prerequisites include an accredited fourth-year psychology qualification or equivalent and evidence of prior professional experience in psychological practice.

• Current general registration as a psychologist with the national registration authority in your country of practice.
• An undergraduate and honours (or fourth-year) qualification in psychology, or equivalent qualification that meets entry standards for postgraduate clinical training.
• Relevant clinical experience in applied settings; programs commonly ask for a minimum period of supervised practice experience.
• Supporting documentation such as a CV, referee reports (often from clinical supervisors), and a personal statement describing clinical experience and professional goals.

Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; selection may include interview or review of clinical suitability. Internationally qualified psychologists should check local registration and recognition requirements before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates expand their scope of clinical practice and are well placed for roles requiring advanced assessment and therapeutic skills. Typical career pathways include:

• Clinical psychologist roles in public health services, hospitals and community mental health teams
• Private practice providing psychological assessment and evidence-based therapy
• Specialist work in child and adolescent mental health, neuropsychology, trauma services, forensic and correctional settings
• Clinical supervision, leadership and multidisciplinary team roles
• Research, teaching and policy positions where advanced clinical expertise is required

Completing a recognised postgraduate clinical qualification also supports pathways to professional endorsement and higher research degrees, depending on local regulatory frameworks and employer requirements.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers clinical training emphasising ethical practice, cultural responsiveness and person‑centred care. The program combines online flexibility for practising clinicians with structured, supervised clinical experiences facilitated through ACU’s placement networks and experienced academic staff who are practising clinicians.

• Flexible online delivery designed for working psychologists, with periodic intensives to consolidate practical skills.
• A focus on culturally sensitive practice, including engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives.
• Clinical supervisors and academic staff who bring contemporary, practice‑based expertise across a range of specialities.
• Opportunities to build applied research skills and an evidence-based practice portfolio to support clinical careers and professional recognition.

Prospective students should consult ACU’s official course pages and speak with admissions or program coordinators to confirm current accreditation, placement arrangements and how the program aligns with registration or endorsement requirements in their jurisdiction.