Career outcomes – what do psychologists do?
The field of psychology is broad, and qualifications in this area can lead to a vast range of roles in the industry.
Some job titles in Australia include:
- Clinical psychologist
- Correctional Services Officer
- Youth Worker
- Counsellor
- Social Worker
- Marketing Professional
- Human Resources Professional
- Journalist
And many more.
Types of psychology courses
Certificate:
A Certificate in Psychology is an entry-level qualification that teaches the basics of psychology and can be completed in a class setting or online. By the end of the course, you’ll have a good understanding of what a career in clinical psychology will involve, and you’ll know if it is a path you would like to pursue. These courses usually have no entry requirements, so it is the perfect pathway to a career in psychology — especially if you don’t have any previous qualifications or experience.
Diploma:
A Diploma of Psychology is a qualification designed to give students prerequisite knowledge that will help them gain entry into a degree-level qualification. At the completion of a Diploma of Psychology (online or in class), you’ll have well-rounded skills and understanding of psychology and be set up for success when you take on a Bachelor’s Degree.
Degree:
With a psychology degree under your belt, you’ll become a highly sought-after job candidate in many related industries. You’ll also put yourself in a good position for further study into postgraduate qualifications such as a Master’s Degree or a Graduate Diploma.
A Bachelor of Psychology online or in class will allow you to get real-world experience in psychology. A degree also sets up a path for learners to become a registered psychologist in a chosen area, like developmental psychology or child psychology, for example — ultimately increasing employment or career advancement opportunities.
Job outlook
According to the Australian Labour Market Insights (previously known as Job Outlook):
- Employment numbers in psychology or psychotherapy are set to grow strongly and are likely to reach 35,100 by 2026.
- 76.8% of psychologists have a postgraduate qualification to their name — making it the most common level of educational attainment in this profession. The second most common academic level at 20.9% is a Bachelor’s Degree.
- 80% of psychologists are female.
- The median annual salary for this occupation is $2,066 per week.
- On average, a full-time psychologist works 43 hours per week.
- The five most essential skills for this profession are active listening, social perceptiveness, speaking, reading comprehension and active learning.
Complete your course entirely online
These days we need a lot more flexibility regarding work and study. Various study methods are available for psychology qualifications, including 100% online delivery.
Online learning allows you to self-pace some aspects of the degree and study at a location and time that suits you the most — making it a great way to achieve your psychology qualification.
Is a psychology course right for you?
If you are fascinated with how the mind works, are intrigued by psychological science and are after a role with a lot of variation, a psychology course may be just what you’re looking for.
Choose a course in psychology that suits your needs and interests
The psychology industry offers an incredible choice of job opportunities in areas including:
- Human resources management
- Policy development
- Research
- Social work and community services
- Healthcare and public health
- Criminal justice and criminology
- Organisational psychology
Psychology is a gratifying job that can be used all over the world, allowing you to take your qualifications with you anywhere.
FAQ
How long are psychology courses?
The length of your chosen psychology course will vary depending on the qualification level you wish to achieve.
An introductory undergraduate certificate takes around six months to complete. A Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology can take three or more years, depending on your study method and the course provider. Postgraduate studies can range from six months to two years full-time.
Is psychology a good course?
If you desire to help others, are empathetic, an active listener and interested in human behaviour, a course in psychology may be perfect for you. Courses cover a broad scope of psychology, offer a range of electives, and provide valuable real-world training that can introduce you to many fulfilling career options.
What can you do with a psychology degree?
A psychology degree gives learners the skills and knowledge to enter psychologist roles such as:
- Clinical psychologist
- Child psychologist
- Forensic psychologist
- Psychotherapist
A psychology degree can also be the gateway to a range of related careers that require a sound knowledge of psychology. Some of these roles include:
- Human resources specialist
- Case worker
- Marriage and family therapist
- Child care worker
- Educational and developmental psychologist
After completing a Bachelor of Psychology, you may choose to take on further study in higher education like a graduate certificate or Master of Psychology. This will further enhance your current qualifications, allow you to specialise in specific study areas and broaden your career opportunities.
How long is a psychology degree?
A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology usually takes three years of full-time study. But, heading feet first into psychology study full-time isn’t the only way to get qualified as a psychologist in Australia. Part-time study options are often available from many course providers and allow learners to obtain their accreditation while also working, caring for family or any other life priorities.
Students that already have a degree in another area (such as a Bachelor of Arts) and wish to pursue a qualification in psychology can often take a bridging course (Graduate Diploma of Psychology) that will fast-track the completion of their psychology degree.
How Hard Is A Degree In Psychology?
No university degree is easy. Degrees are designed to challenge a learner, develop specialised skills and prepare learners to use their qualifications to the highest standard in their field. That said, a degree in psychology can be fascinating, and those with a strong interest in the subject will find study enjoyable and fulfilling.
