Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

This program combines core psychology topics with social science perspectives and practical skill development. You will study introductory and intermediate psychology subjects such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, personality and abnormal psychology, alongside research methods and statistics for behavioural sciences. The course also covers applied and contextual areas including community and social policy, mental health and wellbeing, ethical practice, Indigenous perspectives, and diversity and inclusion.

• Foundations of psychology and social science
• Research design and quantitative statistics for social research
• Qualitative methods and program evaluation
• Developmental, cognitive and social psychology
• Abnormal psychology and approaches to mental health
• Community psychology, policy and service delivery
• Indigenous wellbeing and culturally responsive practice
• Capstone project or professional placement option to apply learning in real settings

Study structure is designed to be practical and applied: core subjects build research literacy and critical thinking, while elective options let you tailor the degree towards community services, mental health or research. Students commonly complete a capstone research project or supervised placement to demonstrate applied skills.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on completion of an approved secondary school qualification or equivalent tertiary study. Applicants with relevant vocational experience or prior learning may be eligible through recognition pathways. Charles Sturt assesses domestic and international applicants against standard entry criteria and may require proof of English language proficiency for students educated in languages other than English.

• Completed secondary qualification or equivalent tertiary/TAFE studies
• Alternative entry possible via recognised prior learning or work experience
• English language competence as required by the university for international applicants

Specific entry pathways and any assumed knowledge or required enabling subjects (for example, academic writing or mathematics/statistics preparation) are published by the university and should be checked on the official course pages before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a versatile qualification suited to roles in community services, government and non-government organisations, health support and research settings. Typical positions include case worker, community development officer, youth worker, intake and assessment officer, mental health support worker, research assistant, policy support and program coordinator roles.

For those aiming to become a registered psychologist in Australia, this bachelor provides a foundational preparation but does not by itself meet the full professional accreditation requirements. Graduates wishing to pursue registration typically continue to an accredited fourth-year honours program or recognised postgraduate professional training in psychology.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt is known for its strong emphasis on applied, practice-focused education and flexible delivery modes, including on-campus and online study that suit regional and remote students. The university places particular emphasis on community engagement and rural and regional contexts, supported by research centres and partnerships in areas such as rural and remote mental health.

• Flexible study options with established online learning support
• Opportunities for practical placements and community-based projects
• Access to academic staff experienced in applied psychology and social research
• Support services for professional development and pathways to honours or postgraduate study

This combination of practical emphasis, regional engagement and flexible delivery makes the Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) at Charles Sturt a strong choice for students seeking applied skills and career-ready outcomes in social and community contexts.