Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BPSYC

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$44,500

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115748M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.5 or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	80
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.90
China – Gaokao	70%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	18
India – CBSE and CISCE	80
India – State Board Examinations	90
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.00
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	19
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.00
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	9
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	10
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.30

Why Bachelor of Psychology?

Psychology helps us uncover why we think, feel and take the actions we do. Cognitive neuroscience goes deeper – exploring the relationship between our brain and mind. It blends psychology and biology to explain how we process thoughts, memories, languages and actions.

This understanding of human development is relevant to a huge number of careers. From mental health support to education, human resources, human-computer technology, marketing and more – our Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience prepares you to excel in fulfilling careers centred around human interaction.

Overview

Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience provides you with a foundational understanding of the core ideas, principles, theories and methods central to psychology.

The cognitive neuroscience major lets you dive even deeper, rounding out your knowledge of human biology to better understand the role it plays in behaviour.

You’ll study a mix of core courses covering developmental psychology, human anatomy and biology, data science and the foundations in cognitive neuroscience.

Alongside this, you’ll undertake practical experiences in our state-of-the-art campus facilities, such as the Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Psychology Clinic and Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory. Here, you’ll explore brain activity and its influence on cognitive processes and behaviour.

Understand people in a deeper way and open up opportunities for an exciting career in a range of people-focused sectors – from education, human resources and marketing to technology, coaching or client advocacy.

For those interested in becoming a registered psychologist, further study is required through our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) followed by a Master of Psychology degree.

Key features

Gain a thorough understanding of psychology theories, principles and methods.
Study in state-of-the-art facilities including a cognitive neuroscience laboratory, psychology clinic, and sleep and chronobiology laboratory
Undertake specialised courses in human anatomy, biology, data science, language development and cognitive function.
Build practical experience through industry placements.
Acquire interpersonal and technical skills highly sought-after by a variety of industries.
Successfully complete this degree and become eligible to apply for entry to the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience – the next step toward becoming a registered psychologist.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience covers key psychology theories, principles, methods and skills. The cognitive neuroscience major adds further depth with a focus on human biology and cognitive development across the lifespan.

You’ll study courses in health and developmental psychology, helping you understand how people grow and stay healthy at different ages. Complementing this, you’ll also take introductory courses in human anatomy and biology.

Psychological research is embedded across the degree, giving you the skills to analyse and interpret data to form conclusions. You’ll also take courses in areas like:

cognition and personality psychology
data science for cognitive neuroscience
biological and learning psychology
language development
neuroscience across the lifespan.

Throughout your studies, you’ll develop an understanding of Indigenous and cross-cultural psychology, communication and interpersonal skills, and enhance your collaboration skills.

You will gain practical experience in our state-of-the-art campus facilities, including our Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Psychology Clinic and Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory. These facilities will allow you to investigate brain activity and its impact on cognitive processes and behaviour while using cutting-edge technologies like EEG – putting you at the forefront of cognitive neuroscience research.

Research placements will further extend your practical experience and provide opportunities to build vital industry networks.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

84 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
48 units for one Major from Major, or
48 units from Discipline courses, and
6 units from Work integrated learning, and
6 units for all Electives

Complete 84 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
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 Introductory Psychology Research Methods	Course code PSYC1000	Units 6
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 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 Psychology for Global Challenges	Course code PSYC2010	Units 6
Course name Insights into Health and Developmental Psychology	Course code PSYC2003	Units 6
Course name Insights into Individual Behaviour and Cognition	Course code PSYC2001	Units 6
Course name Advanced Research Methods in Psychology	Course code PSYC3007	Units 6
Course name Advanced Individual Behaviour and Cognition	Course code PSYC3001	Units 6
Course name Psychology for Organisations and Communities	Course code PSYC3011	Units 6
Course name Advanced Health and Developmental Psychology	Course code PSYC3003	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Human Anatomy and Physiology A	Course code HBIO1002	Units 6
Course name Essentials of Neuroscience	Course code HBIO1005	Units 6
Course name Foundations in Cognitive Neuroscience	Course code PSYC1004	Units 6
Course name Foundations of Human Neuroanatomy	Course code HBIO2004	Units 6
Course name Insights into Cognitive Neuroscience	Course code PSYC2004	Units 6
Course name Data Science for Cognitive Neuroscience	Course code PSYC2006	Units 6
Course name Advanced Cognitive Neuroscience: Language	Course code PSYC3006	Units 6
Course name Advanced Cognitive Neuroscience: Lifespan	Course code PSYC3010	Units 6

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Work Integrated Learning in Psychology	Course code PSYC3900	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	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

Career outcomes

Individuals with the ability to connect with and understand people on a deep level are highly sought-after in every industry powered by human interaction. If a sector serves members of a community – whether in an educational, workplace, human services, or healthcare setting – the ability to listen, ask good questions, and provide the right support are all crucial skills.

With its focus on uncovering the connections between brain function and human behaviour, our Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience provides an exceptional foundation for a career in a range of diverse settings, including:

Education
Business and human resources
Government and non-profit organisations
Technology
Social services and mental health
Sports and performance
Marketing and advertising
Private coaching or consulting.

You could work as a UX researcher, learning how people interact with websites, products, and software to enhance accessibility and useability. Maybe you’ll work as a coach, helping clients set and achieve their professional or personal goals through motivational techniques and behaviour change strategies. Or perhaps you’ll use your knowledge of cognitive psychology to analyse consumer behaviour and develop effective marketing or advertising strategies.

For those interested in becoming a registered psychologist, further study is required through the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) majoring in Cognitive Neuroscience.

Industry trends

People are now living longer than at any other time in recorded human history. The demand for specialised programs and services to support this age group is high and only expected to increase. Additionally, it’s estimated that one in three people globally are living with a neurological condition – making it the leading cause of illness and disability worldwide (World Health Organisation, 2024).

With your background in cognitive psychology, you’ll be well placed to meet the needs of this expanding and specialised workforce.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

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.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

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: