Why Bachelor of Psychology?
Why do people act the way they do? What makes one person behave in one way, and another completely differently? With psychology, you’ll unravel these mysteries and more. It’s not just about mental health – it’s about understanding human behaviour in every corner of society.
Discover how history, society and culture shape our views of ourselves and others. Learn to gather and apply evidence, separating fact from fiction in today’s digital age of misinformation. Deepen your active listening and empathy with practical experiences that bring theory to life. Embrace the richness of cross-cultural psychology, developing skills to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
Our Bachelor of Psychology prepares you for a huge range of exciting careers where people are at the centre of everything you do.
Overview
Study psychology and join a fascinating and dynamic field with career pathways into a wide variety of areas.
Psychology can impact education – informing teaching methods to engage and motivate students. Or it can help interpret market trends and consumer behaviour in a business context. In the tech field, psychology is driving the design of user-friendly products and human-machine interactions. Guided by ethics and social contexts, psychology’s influence spans politics, global diplomacy, law and justice.
With its focus on understanding human behaviour, our Bachelor of Psychology offers endless opportunities to make a difference. Learn to think like a psychologist, studying real-world problems in personal, professional and community contexts. Reflect on information sources and validity, developing important skills in critical thinking. Discover techniques to develop rapport, ask effective questions, and communicate clearly and with cultural sensitivity – skills that will serve you well in a huge range of contexts and careers.
For those interested in becoming a registered psychologist, further study is required through our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
Key features
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts, theories, principles and methods of psychology.- Apply your understanding of human behaviour in variety of real-world contexts.
- Gain interpersonal and technical skills that are transferrable and in high demand across a range of industries.
- Build advanced skills in quantitative and qualitative research.
- Progress towards professional accreditation with our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
What you'll learn
Through the Bachelor of Psychology, you’ll study twelve core psychology courses that are common to all psychology specialisations. These courses are focused on building your theoretical understanding of psychology, critical, analytical and research skills, and your ability to apply an understanding of human behaviour in a variety of contexts.
Throughout your studies, you’ll develop knowledge in health and developmental psychology, building insight into healthy development across the lifespan. Studying Indigenous and Cross-Cultural Psychology will give you the knowledge, skills and values to work with culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
You’ll learn to undertake psychological research, helping you to analyse and interpret data to draw insightful conclusions. You’ll also develop a deeper understanding of the different ways psychology can relate to individuals and groups.
In your final year, you’ll undertake an industry placement in a mental health or community organisation where you’ll gain practical experience alongside important industry connections.
Assessments for this degree include online quizzes and tests, case studies, written assignments, presentations, research reports, reflective practice, and supervised exams.
Majors
The Bachelor of Psychology is also available with majors in the following:
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 90 to 96 units for Core courses, and
- Either:
- 36 to 48 units for one Major from Majors, or
- 48 units from Electives, and
- 6 units for all Work integrated learning
Complete 90 to 96 units comprising:
- 84 units for all Program core, and
- 6 to 12 units for all Common core
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
|
Course code
PSYC1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
|
Course code
PSYC2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
|
Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1012
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Students are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and to have completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to undertaking this course. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, National Police Check, Responding to Abuse and Neglect training, or recognised First Aid Certificate.
2. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at Adelaide University or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, PSYC3007 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology. Specialist Psychology Courses are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
|
Course code
PSYC1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
|
Course code
PSYC2010
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
|
Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete one Major from the following:
| Major name | |
|---|---|
|
|
Major
Counselling and Interpersonal Skills
|
|
|
Major
Cognitive Neuroscience
|
Notes
1. Students are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and to have completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to undertaking this course. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, National Police Check, Responding to Abuse and Neglect training, or recognised First Aid Certificate.
2. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at Adelaide University or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, PSYC3007 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology. Specialist Psychology Courses are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
|
Course code
PSYC1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
|
Course code
PSYC2010
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
|
Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Students are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and to have completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to undertaking this course. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, National Police Check, Responding to Abuse and Neglect training, or recognised First Aid Certificate.
2. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at Adelaide University or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, PSYC3007 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology. Specialist Psychology Courses are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
|
Course code
PSYC1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
|
Course code
PSYC2010
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
|
Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Elective 1
|
Course code
AUXX1011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 2
|
Course code
AUXX1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 3
|
Course code
AUXX1013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 4
|
Course code
AUXX1014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 5
|
Course code
AUXX1015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 6
|
Course code
AUXX1016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 7
|
Course code
AUXX1017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Elective 8
|
Course code
AUXX1018
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Students are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and to have completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to undertaking this course. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, National Police Check, Responding to Abuse and Neglect training, or recognised First Aid Certificate.
2. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at Adelaide University or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, PSYC3007 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology. Specialist Psychology Courses are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Introductory Psychology Research Methods
|
Course code
PSYC1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Social Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Understanding Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC1012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Data and Research in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Career Development in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC2003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Global Challenges
|
Course code
PSYC2010
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition
|
Course code
PSYC3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Methods in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Work Integrated Learning in Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Psychology for Organisations and Communities
|
Course code
PSYC3011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With its focus on understanding human behaviour, our Bachelor of Psychology provides an exceptional foundation for work in a diverse range areas.
You might work in community and welfare services, improving outcomes for vulnerable people and their communities. You might research attitudes and consumer behaviour, guiding organisations to adopt more sustainable practices. You may work in a tech start-up that is pushing boundaries with new human-device technology, helping to streamline the user experience.
Other areas you might work include:
- Politics and governance
- Marketing
- Social work
- Global relations
- Health care and therapy
- Human resources.
If you wish to become a registered psychologist, further study is required through our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
Industry trends
Graduates with deep understanding of human behaviour are highly sought-after in many industries including education and training, public health, market and consumer research, and technology industries.
With waitlists for mental health services continuing to climb, the demand for qualified mental health professionals has never been greater (APS, 2022).
By 2026 alone, employment for in the health care and social assistance sectors is projected to grow by 15.8% (+301,000 new jobs) (Australian Government, 2022).
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
