Content
Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours)
- A pathway to registration as a psychologist
- Opportunity to specialise in an area of vocational interest
- Accredited with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council
Program summary
Program title: Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours)
Award abbreviation: BSocSc(Psych)(Hons)
QTAC code: n/a - direct application to USC
OP/Rank for 2012 entry: GPA requirement
Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
Commence: Semester 1 only
Study mode: on campus
Prerequisites: Completion of Undergraduate Psychology degree with minimum GPA of 5.0
Recommended prior study: English
Fee type 2012: Commonwealth supported places, fee paying places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 96
USC program code: AR403
CRICOS code: 063009C. Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
Continue your social science undergraduate studies at a higher level, specialising in psychology.
In this program you undertake advanced study of core psychological theories and methods, and training in the application and interpretation of commonly used cognitive and personality assessments. Evidence-based approaches to psychological intervention are a focus, and you gain a comprehensive introduction to ethical standards in professional practice and legislation that govern the practice of psychology in Australia. Your studies are supervised by a Faculty of Arts and Business academic who has relevant research interests and expertise in your field of study. There is a thesis component.
Admission requirements
The entry requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours) are:
- completion of an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)-accredited three-year undergraduate degree in psychology within the last 10 years, and
- a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0 in all psychology courses taken as part of, or credited toward, the degree
There is a limit on the number of honours places available, and selection will be based on applicants’ undergraduate psychology GPA.
Career opportunities
Registration as a psychologist with probationary conditions, or further postgraduate studies in the area of psychology.
Professional recognition
Graduates may seek registration as a psychologist with probationary conditions with the Psychologists Board of Queensland. Graduates are also eligible to apply for entry to specialist postgraduate training programs in psychology, such as the Master of Psychology (Clinical), or research higher degrees in psychology, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Enquiries
Program Leader
Dr Geoff Lovell
Tel: +61 7 5456 5100
Email: GLovell@usc.edu.au
Program structure
Students must successfully complete the following courses, totalling 96 units, in order to be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Social Sciences (Psychology) (Honours):
Coursework component
PSY400 Advanced Statistics in Psychology
PSY401 Advanced Theoretical Issues in Psychology
PSY402 Professional Practice of Psychology
PSY403 Ethical and Professional Issues In Psychology
Dissertation component
PSY404 Research Dissertation A
PSY405 Research Dissertation B
Program requirements and notes
Enrolment and fees
- In any semester, standard full-time enrolment comprises 0.500 EFTSL
- In any semester, standard part-time enrolment comprises 0.250 EFTSL. Students enrolling part-time in the award must complete the coursework components before enrolling in the dissertation
- The census date for withdrawal without financial penalty or academic penalty is the Semester 1 or 2 census date
- Commonwealth supported students pay student contributions
- Students who are not Commonwealth supported pay full tuition fees
Assessment and examination
All coursework is normally graded internally. Assessment work involves a combination of short reports, essays, class presentations, class tests and examinations. A copy of your dissertation will be sent to two independent examiners, one of whom is normally internal and the other of whom is external to the University of the Sunshine Coast.
To be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours), students are required to pass both the coursework and dissertation components of the program.
Other notes
- Refer related policies, rules, plans and procedures.
- Refer to explanation of terms.
- International students need to refer to the English language requirements.
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
Classes of honours
The degree is awarded in one of the three classes:
- Class 1
- Class 2 (awarded as Division 1 or Division 2)
- Class 3
The class of honours awarded may not be more than one grade higher than the grade for the thesis. For example, if you receive a ‘Credit’ grade for your thesis, you may not be awarded the honours degree at a higher level than Class 2 Division 1, regardless of the average mark.
Study Plan
The Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (Honours) Study Plan is for students commencing in the current semester.
Coursework component
| Course | Usual teaching session of offer | Requisites | Units |
|---|
| PSY400 Advanced Statistics in Psychology | Semester 1 | Pre: Enrolled in Program AR403 | 12.00 |
| PSY401 Advanced Theoretical Issues in Psychology | Semester 1 | Pre: Enrolled in Program AR403 | 12.00 |
| PSY402 Professional Practice of Psychology | Semester 2 | Pre: Enrolled in Program AR403 | 12.00 |
| PSY403 Ethical and Professional Issues In Psychology | Semester 2 | Pre: Enrolled in Program AR403 | 12.00 |
Dissertation component
| Course | Usual teaching session of offer | Requisites | Units |
|---|
| PSY404 Research Dissertation A | Semester 1 | Co: PSY400 and enrolled in AR403 | 0 |
| PSY405 Research Dissertation B | Semester 2 | Pre: PSY404 and enrolled in Program AR403 | 48.00 |
Why choose USC?
It’s the best of both worlds. Students choose USC for its industry focused degrees, experienced academics, student support, overseas study opportunities and relaxed campus atmosphere.
Am I eligible for university study?
Find out what qualifications you need to apply for entry into your proposed study program. If you don’t have the required qualifications, there may be alternative pathways you can take to gain entry to USC.
If you have previously undertaken university or TAFE studies, you may be eligible for credit transfer.
If English is not your first language, you need to meet the minimum English language requirements for your chosen program. This requirement applies to all students intending to study at the University.
How do I submit an application?
When should I apply?
Check if the program is offered in Semester 1 and / or Semester 2, then follow the deadlines on the application calendar. The academic calendar provides all the key dates you need to know as a student at USC.
What happens next?
Accept your offer with QTAC (if applicable) and USC, enrol in your classes and attend Orientation.
Where can I ask more questions?
If you have more questions about how to apply:
- Online: find answers to commonly asked questions in the Student FAQs
- Email: information@usc.edu.au
- Phone: Student Administration on +61 7 5430 2890
- In person: Student Central, Building C
If you have questions about your program:
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