Why Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills)?
While psychology takes a broad approach to human behaviour – examining why people think and act the way they do – counselling offers tailored support to help individuals address specific issues.
The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills) gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll gain a sound knowledge of psychology, as well as the analytical, communication and interpersonal skills needed for a meaningful career enhancing the wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities. Your honours year will teach you advanced research skills and provide you with foundational skills in interviewing and assessment for professional practice, as well as being a first step down the path to becoming a registered psychologist.
Overview
Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills) equips you to provide care to people in need of mental health care.
You’ll study theories and concepts in psychology and apply them in counselling environments. Learn the ins and outs of communication in real-world scenarios. Build skills to evaluate, analyse, simplify and communicate complex concepts. Benefit from industry placements, community service work and group activities. Become a socially conscious practitioner attuned to different social and geopolitical contexts.
You’ll graduate with practical skills to meet people where they’re at and research skills to better understand why they’re experiencing distress. You’ll be equipped to help your clients build wellbeing and resilience – no matter what environment they’re in.
Your honours year expands upon your studies with advanced research activities and pre-professional practice. Through further postgraduate study, you could take your career to the next level and become a registered psychologist.
Key features
Take your first steps down the path to become a registered psychologist. - Practise using a range of counselling skills and interventions.
- Learn how to solve problems and enhance mental wellbeing for diverse populations.
- Get hands-on experience in industry placements and community service activities.
- Build advanced research and professional psychology skills through your honours year.
- Graduate ready to join the qualified and in-demand mental health workforce in Australia.
What you'll learn
This four-year degree equips you with the skills to provide evidence-based mental health care. You’ll develop a deep understanding of the psychological theories informing the field. You’ll build communication, teamwork and critical thinking skills that are valued by employers across all industries.
Your first year will cover the foundations of psychological concepts and how they apply in different contexts.
Throughout your studies, you’ll refine your knowledge in counselling and interpersonal skills. You’ll study topics like counselling foundations, communication skills and counselling interventions. Learn how to engage with diverse groups of people. Apply your learnings in personal, professional and community environments.
Your final honours year provides a balance of high-level research skills and pre-professional competencies to prepare you for advanced roles, or to continue down the pathway to registration as a psychologist. You’ll conduct a research project and write a thesis, engage with pre-professional training in interpersonal communication and interviewing, and further develop your skills in research, project management and delivery.
You’ll undertake an industry placement in a community organisation where you’ll gain practical experience alongside important industry connections.
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 180 units for Core courses, and
- 6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 6 units for Electives
Complete 180 units comprising:
- 12 units from Common core, and
- 168 units for all Program core
| 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
|
| 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
Counselling Foundations
|
Course code
PSYC1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Group Work
|
Course code
PSYC1009
|
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
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
Counselling Skills
|
Course code
PSYC2005
|
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
Psychological Interventions and Applications
|
Course code
PSYC4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interviewing and Interpersonal Skills for Psychology
|
Course code
PSYC4001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Skills for Psychological Assessment
|
Course code
PSYC4002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Psychology Research Project
|
Course code
PSYC4004
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Psychological Research Evidence in Professional Contexts
|
Course code
PSYC4800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services
|
Course code
SOWK1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Counselling Interventions
|
Course code
SOWK2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Working with Community
|
Course code
SOWK2001
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. To progress to the fourth year (Honours), students must complete all requirements for years 1 to 3 of the program and meet minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements. Students must achieve a minimum GPA of 5.5 for all APAC accredited Level 2 and Level 3 psychology courses plus Introductory Psychology Research Methods as well as an overall program GPA of 5.0. Students who do not meet the requirements to enter the Honours year will, on satisfactory completion of the third year, graduate with the Bachelor of Psychology.
2. Maximum credit limits apply to this program. No more than two years (2 EFTSL) of credit will be granted for studies undertaken at an institution other than Adelaide University.
3. Specialist Psychology Courses must be selected from the Electives list and are offered subject to student demand and staff availability.
4. Students may be required to obtain a police criminal history check or complete other workplace specific induction, training, or clearance procedures prior to the commencement of the course.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Free Electives |
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
24
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units comprising:
- 6 units for all Free Electives
Notes
1. To progress to the fourth year (Honours), students must complete all requirements for years 1 to 3 of the program and meet minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements. Students must achieve a minimum GPA of 5.5 for all APAC accredited Level 2 and Level 3 psychology courses plus Introductory Psychology Research Methods as well as an overall program GPA of 5.0. Students who do not meet the requirements to enter the Honours year will, on satisfactory completion of the third year, graduate with the Bachelor of Psychology.
2. Maximum credit limits apply to this program. No more than two years (2 EFTSL) of credit will be granted for studies undertaken at an institution other than Adelaide University.
3. Specialist Psychology Courses must be selected from the Electives list and are offered subject to student demand and staff availability.
4. Students may be required to obtain a police criminal history check or complete other workplace specific induction, training, or clearance procedures prior to the commencement of the course.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Free Electives |
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
24
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
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. To progress to the fourth year (Honours), students must complete all requirements for years 1 to 3 of the program and meet minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements. Students must achieve a minimum GPA of 5.5 for all APAC accredited Level 2 and Level 3 psychology courses plus Introductory Psychology Research Methods as well as an overall program GPA of 5.0. Students who do not meet the requirements to enter the Honours year will, on satisfactory completion of the third year, graduate with the Bachelor of Psychology.
2. Maximum credit limits apply to this program. No more than two years (2 EFTSL) of credit will be granted for studies undertaken at an institution other than Adelaide University.
3. Specialist Psychology Courses must be selected from the Electives list and are offered subject to student demand and staff availability.
4. Students may be required to obtain a police criminal history check or complete other workplace specific induction, training, or clearance procedures prior to the commencement of the course.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Free Electives |
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
24
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Mental health workers in counselling and psychology are invaluable members of our care workforce. They help people live longer, healthier and more fulfilled lives.
You’ll be able to connect with people on a deep level, and apply your skills in care into all kinds of workplace environments, including:
- Education
- Business and human resources
- Government and not-for-profits
- Family services
- Crisis intervention services
- Private coaching or consulting
- Peer support work.
You might work directly with clients as a peer worker. You could contribute to health frameworks that better support employee wellbeing. Perhaps you’ll find a research role, investigating why people develop mental health conditions.
You can also use this degree to continue on towards professional registration as a psychologist through our Master of Psychology.
Industry trends
One in every eight people in the world live with a mental disorder (World Health Organization, 2022). These conditions can involve significant disturbances in peoples’ ability to live fulfilling lives. Despite this, most people do not have access to effective prevention and treatment options, with Australia noted as being in a shortfall of qualified mental health professionals (National Mental Health Workforce Strategy | 2022-2023).
Adelaide University’s future-thinking curriculum will empower you to help people from diverse populations live fulfilling lives and build resilience when facing hardships. You’ll be ready to meet the growing needs of the many Australians – and individuals worldwide – managing mental health challenges and distress.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Graduates will be eligible to apply for postgraduate study in psychology.
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.
