University of Adelaide Psychology School Overview

The Master of Psychology (Clinical) degree is the standard preparation program providing professional training and practise in clinical psychology. It consists of three major components: specialized coursework in a series of topics relevant to clinical practice; research thesis; and three long field placements aimed at developing professional competence under the guidance of highly experienced supervisors.

The program involves two years full-time or four years part-time study. The program has two key objectives. The first is to provide thorough theoretical and clinical skills preparation in core areas to meet formal requirements for entry to the profession (as determined by its accrediting bodies). The second is to prepare graduates to accept responsibility for continuing self-monitoring and development, skills that are essential to ongoing employment in the profession.

Entry Requirements

Entry is available to graduates with a good Honours degree in Psychology comprising of a minimum of Second Class, Division A Honours and an individually-conducted research project carrying 33% or more of the years work. Selection procedures depend on academic results, referee reports and a structured interview conducted by a panel. There is usually very strong competition for the limited number of places available.

Applicants must have qualified for an APAC – accredited Bachelors degree Honours in Psychology, or a program recognized by the University of Adelaide as an equivalent award.

Under the Australian National Law, students must obtain provisional registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia before they commence their program of study, and for the duration of the program. In the event that the Registration Board refuses an application for provisional registration, the offer of candidature in the program will be rescinded – it is not possible to complete the program without holding provisional registration as a psychologist.

Career Opportunities

Clinical psychologists have specialist training in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of major mental illnesses and psychological problems.

Professional Recognition in Canada

The program provides graduates with the tertiary-level education required to be eligible for registration as a Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and after a period of supervised registrar practice, membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) College of Clinical Psychologists and endorsement by the Psychology Board of Australia as a clinical psychologist.

Canadian psychology license are regulated by each province, so graduates applying to licensing in Canada will be required to contact each province’s licensing body you want to practice in. For a list of provincial licensing websites visit http://www.cpa.ca/accreditation/PTlicensingrequirements/.

KOM Consultants understands the process and requirements needed to enter the profession in Canada. Contact KOM Consultants for more information.

All students applying directly through KOM will be supported with the latest information on the accreditation process.