Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours)
Overview
Develop advanced, independent research skills and work towards a career as a professional psychologist or academic researcher with the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours).
If you’ve already completed an accredited Australian Psychology undergraduate degree, then this qualification is for you.
The skills you’ll learn will further prepare you for postgraduate studies in specialist areas including: clinical psychology, organisational psychology, sports psychology, or a career in research.
Swinburne Open Day 2026
Stop by our Hawthorn campus on Sunday 26 July for Open Day – the stop where everything starts. Got everything you need? Apply for midyear now and get on your way in Semester 2.
Skills you’ll learn
- Explaining key theories and methods
- Conduct of psychological research
- Strategies for psychological practice
- Explain principles of psychological interventions
- Communication skills
Your career opportunities
- Psychologist (with further studies)
- Social welfare consultant
- Medical researcher
- Clinical worker
- Health officer
- Child development officer
Key codes
International student visa
International students in Australia who hold student visas are required to study full-time and on campus. Courses that are taught entirely online are only available to international students studying outside Australia or those in Australia who are not on a student visa. Online courses are not available to international students in Australia who hold a student visa.
Professional accreditations
Why Swinburne?
Ranked top 250 in the world for the subject of psychology
Times Higher Education World University Ranking by Subject 202383.5% of students found employment within 4 months of graduating
Qualifications
Australian applicants must have completed an APAC-accredited three-year bachelor degree or equivalent sequence in psychology*, with a minimum of a Distinction average (70%) in core psychology units at the third-year level and have at least credits in all second and third level core/major units (one exception allowed).
*Applicants who have completed a psychology major at an overseas university must provide evidence that their degree meets the requirements of an APAC-accredited Australian undergraduate degree in psychology.
- Completed an APAC (Australian Psychology Accreditation Council) accredited three year bachelor degree or equivalent sequence in psychology at an Australian university with at least a distinction average (70%) in core psychology units at the third year level and have at least credits in all second and third year level core/major units (one exception allowed)
- Completed a psychology major at an overseas university which meets the requirements of an APAC - accredited Australian undergraduate degree in psychology.
Admission requirements
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee an offer of a place. See admission requirements for general information about the admission process.
English language requirements
Satisfactory completion of one of the following:
- IELTS overall band of 7.0 (Academic Module) with no individual band below 7.0
- Swinburne’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP 5 Advanced level) with overall 75%, all skills 70%
- or equivalent measures available at English language requirements.
Need to undertake an English assessment for entry?
A prerequisite for many courses, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) can now be done at our Hawthorn campus.
Informed Choices
Informed Choices is how Swinburne supports you through course selection, navigating university experiences and accessing the right support services at the right times, along with ensuring you can successfully complete your course, and are equipped with the information you need to make the right career decision for you.
Informed Choices covers five areas of course requirements and capability:
Sensory
Mobility and movement
Legal, duty of care and professional
Learning and knowledge creation; and
Interpersonal.
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Sound
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will use hearing to respond to vocal cues and differentiate sounds and tone, to maintain safety and make accurate assessments.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Interpreting micro counselling skills, which requires reflective listening
Evaluating client-centred counselling interviews
Adaptable components
The following sensory components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Sight | See and interpret visual information, including colour and/or facial cues, to maintain safety and make accurate assessments. |
| Touch | Feel tactile differences and changes in objects, assess physical conditions, and respond to discomfort or danger, to maintain safety and make accurate assessments. |
Adaptable components
The following mobility and movement components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Endurance | Sustain physical effort and concentration over extended periods without experiencing excessive fatigue. |
| Dexterity | Use fine and coordinated movements of the hands and limbs to complete tasks that require precision and control. |
| Fine motor skills | Execute small, precise movements efficiently, such as manipulating tools, equipment, or controls. |
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Activities in this course where required components are applicable will be observed and assessed to meet Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) to enter future professional practice.
Codes of conduct
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will follow professional rules, standards, and ethical guidelines provided by professional association(s).
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Demonstrating the application of professional standards of conduct, integrity and legal obligations
Respecting professional boundaries, legislative requirements, policies, procedures and standards
Duty of care
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will act in ways that support personal safety and the safety of others.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Demonstrating the application of professional standards to make ethical decisions, and to be accountable for your actions and conduct
Participating in respectful and culturally safe working relationships with others when discussing sensitive topics, or in mental health contexts
Mitigating risk of ethical breaches, or unsafe decision‑making in professional contexts, and failure to meet professional responsibilities
Cultural sensitivity (including equity awareness)
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will respect diverse cultures, identities, and perspectives by acting in inclusive, fair, and nonjudgemental ways.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Demonstrating professional and ethical behaviours that are informed by cultural awareness and competence
Applying the knowledge and skills of psychology in a manner that is reflexive, culturally appropriate and sensitive to the diversity of individuals
Recognising cultural contexts and the need to respectfully and safely work with persons from different cultural backgrounds
Engage effectively
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will interact with others honestly, respectfully, and responsibly to build trust and professional relationships.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Demonstrating respectful communication with integrity, honesty and accountability towards peers and colleagues
Demonstrating values of respect, responsibility, accountability, and truthfulness
Defending ethical decisions in professional contexts
Adaptable components
The following professional components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Professional reflection | Review your learning and performance to identify areas for improvement. |
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Critical thinking and analysis
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will develop and use skills in analysing and evaluating information objectively to form well-reasoned conclusions.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Writing and evaluating literature reviews
Producing scientific writing for the purpose of publications and grants
Adaptable components
The following learning and knowledge creation components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Cognition | Apply thinking skills such as attention, memory, language, and perception to focus, learn, and complete tasks over a continued period of time. |
| Understand and apply information | Interpret and use information by following instructions, making decisions, solving problems and applying knowledge. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital tools and technologies effectively to access, create, and apply knowledge. |
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Social cues
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will use social cues to notice and respond to unspoken communication such as body language, facial expression, gestures and pace of conversations.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Delivering live oral presentations to small groups
Presenting results and discussing outcomes with colleagues and peers
Written communication
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will develop and use written communication skills to express information through written formats including via software, print or handwriting.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Writing a thesis
Producing scientific writing content
Collaboration and teamwork
Students in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) will develop and use skills in working with others to build trust, contribute to shared goals, and maintain positive team dynamics.
Some activities are core to research integrity and the production of valid scholarly work. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustment in activities such as:
Working with academic supervisor on chosen research project
Attending and participating in team meetings
Adaptable components
The following interpersonal components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Verbal communication | Express ideas clearly through spoken language, supported by tone and body language, to support understanding and feedback. |
| Numeracy | Use numbers and data to make decisions in everyday and professional situations. |
| Conflict resolution | Address disagreements calmly and respectfully to reach beneficial outcomes. |
| Emotional regulation | Take part in interactions with others in a way that supports respectful and productive communication. |
| Adaptability | Respond to changes by adjusting plans and managing different tasks as situations change. |
Credit transfer
Credit is granted in recognition of previous study and/or experience and allows students to gain advanced standing towards their course. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Recognition of prior learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Finding your fit
At Swinburne, we recognise that not one size fits all. If this course doesn’t meet all your study criteria, check out these alternatives.
-
Bachelor of Psychological Sciences
-
Bachelor of Health Science
How credit points work
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) requires students to complete units of study to the value of 100 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.
Your units
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Core units | |
|
Advanced Quantitative Methods
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
PSY40001 |
|
Honours Thesis B
Core unit , 25.0 credit points |
PSY40002 |
|
Ethical and Professional Issues
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
PSY40005 |
|
Psychological Assessment
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
PSY40006 |
|
Counselling Psychology
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
PSY40008 |
|
Honours Thesis A
Core unit , 25.0 credit points |
PSY40009 |
2026 tuition fees
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$9,537.00
Total fee* ($AUD)
$9,537.00
2026 tuition fees
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$47,320.00
Fees are estimates only
Published student tuition fees for 2026 unit enrolments in HE Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and Undergraduate Full Fee Paying (FFP) are subject to change based on individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees may vary for units studied in future years, with part-time fees being proportionally lower depending on the number of units taken per semester. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
Fees are estimates only
The indicative course fees shown apply to international students for the relevant year, based on a standard study load per year. Fees are assessed according to actual study load each semester, with variations to study load resulting in tuition fee adjustments. These fees generally include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and are subject to annual review. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
How do I pay my fees?
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to you if you are eligible and enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of your contribution amount. You can also choose to pay your fees up front.
International students need to pay tuition fees up-front by the relevant due date. You can find the due dates on your Statement of Account.
To pay your fees:
- log in to My Finances
- check your Australian bank account details are correct
- check your Statement of Account to see how much you owe
- pay using your preferred payment method.
Eligibility for HECS-HELP
You are eligible for a HECS-HELP loan if you have been offered a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for an undergraduate degree at Swinburne or a UniLink course, and you:
- are an Australian citizen and doing at least one unit of your course in Australia; or
- hold a permanent humanitarian visa and will be living in Australia for the duration of your course; or
- hold a New Zealand Special Category visa and meet the special eligibility requirements for New Zealand citizens.
Student services and amenities fee
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
The fee shown in the capped amount for 2026.
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
This amenities fee is included within your annual tuition fee listed above. The fee shown is the capped amount for 2026.
Please refer to the Student Services Amenities Fee page for more information.
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
Scholarships
Scholarship applications for 2026 are open. Scholarships at Swinburne are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. We want you to reach your potential and achieve your life and career goals.
Our handy guide will assist you to gather documents for your application.
When you apply for a Swinburne course, we automatically consider you for an international scholarship of up to 20 per cent off your course fees – no separate application required! Just apply for your Swinburne course of choice and when we review your course application, we will also assess you for an international scholarship.
Apply through an agent
Most international students use an education agent to help them through the application process. Swinburne has agents all over the world that can help you with your application to study. Search for a Swinburne representative in your country. If your country is not listed, please contact us.
Apply directly
Ready to take on a new challenge and reach your academic goals? If you already know which course you want to study and understand the entry requirements, what are you waiting for? Apply online!
Applicants, please note that you do not have to provide a detailed description of an honours project. Just a simple sentence will suffice, providing us with an indication of your interests in general. You do not need to contact a supervisor to talk about research projects until you receive an offer.
If qualifications were obtained overseas, you must also have your qualifications assessed by the Australian Psychological Society and provide evidence of equivalency with your application
Non-Swinburne applicants should provide a cover letter, showing the applicant's full name, contact details and application course details, with any additional documentation being forwarded to the University.
Please note that at least 50% of the places in the Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) are open to applicants from Swinburne University of Technology only and the remainder to applicants from all universities.
Last date to apply
- Semester 1 2027 – 5pm, Friday 30 October 2026