Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology)

3 years full-time

Learning and teaching

RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work. These are primarily in English.

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, oral classes, presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects and practical assignments.

Program structure

This degree is based in the social sciences with a comprehensive psychology specialisation, comprising 11 psychology courses, 9 social science courses and 4 electives.

Year 1

You'll study the foundations and principles of psychology, plus social science units that explore:

• environmental studies
• economics
• social constructionism
• philosophy
• sociology
• politics.

Year 2

The emphasis shifts from social science to psychology. Here students explore biological, developmental, cognitive and social psychology as well as a smaller number of social science courses. You'll also begin using electives to develop areas of specialisation.

Year 3

This covers advanced psychology courses on Psychological Assessment, the Philosophy of Psychology, Psychopathology and Psychology in Society and Organisations. Students will also undertake a 35-day professional work placement.

The following program structure(s) is an example of what students are currently studying in this program.

Along with being recognised by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), the program provides opportunities to gain important vocational skills that are transferable across many areas of employment. These skills include communication, policy development, research and management.

A professional work placement allows students to work in human service organisations under the supervision of a qualified psychologist. As well as gaining practical experience, this allows you to develop networks, career opportunities and, for many, employment outcomes in your chosen area of interest.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

You'll enjoy excellent employment prospects in the public, private and community sectors.

The Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) is especially relevant to areas like child protection, community-based agencies, human resource management, education, welfare and health sector.

The degree also provides an academic foundation to pursue further study for a specialist career in clinical, educational, organisational, developmental or forensic psychology.

Students seeking to qualify as a practising psychologist must apply either for entry to Honours, or an equivalent graduate year of study in psychology.

Students who go on to successfully complete a fourth year (Honours or equivalent) qualify for registration as a probationary psychologist.

Another 2 years of study, generally taken as a Master of Psychology, qualifies you as a qualified psychologist.

Professional recognition and accreditation

The program is accredited by the professional accreditation body for tertiary psychology courses, the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).

Successful completion of an APAC-accredited psychology specialisation is a partial requirement for registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia.

The program offers a flexible elective structure that enables students to bundle their electives and study abroad.

You must meet the University entry requirements for this type of program.

Program entry requirements

Prerequisites

Current Year 12 prerequisite units 3 and 4—a study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or at least 25 in any other English.

Selection tasks

Form: Non-year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered. Applicants should include their reasons for wanting to study the course and details of any relevant work or other experience.

1. Check program entry requirements and confirm you're eligible.

2. Check and complete the selection tasks (if applicable) by the relevant closing date - these tasks are listed in the program entry requirements.

3. Check the table below for how to apply.

4. Apply using the appropriate method by the closing date.

Application method

Equity access

If circumstances have interrupted or disadvantaged your access to education, RMIT offers equity access schemes that allow selection officers to give applicants extra consideration, which may improve your prospects of studying at RMIT.

Tuition fees vary according to program and are adjusted annually.

In a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) your tuition fee is shared between you and the Commonwealth Government - if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Fee assistance

As a Commonwealth supported student, you may be able to either:

• pay all or part of your student contribution up front and receive a 10% discount, or
• defer your tuition fees through the HECS-HELP loan scheme.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds. Learn more about RMIT Scholarships.

Other fees

In addition to tuition fees you will also pay the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF). You may be able to defer the fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

There may be other additional expenses and administrative fees associated with your studies.

Learn more about pathways or if you are eligible for credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.

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