COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Psychological Science at La Trobe University requires students to complete 480 credit points, combining core nursing studies with psychological science subjects to develop comprehensive healthcare expertise. The four-year program integrates clinical practice, scientific understanding, and behavioural knowledge to prepare graduates for complex healthcare environments. In the first year, students establish foundations in anatomy and physiology, professional nursing practice, nursing studies, healthcare, and introductory psychology, including the study of the brain, mind, people, and culture. The second year expands nursing and psychology knowledge through professional nursing practice, primary healthcare, First Nations health, scientific foundations of psychology, applied psychology, and social psychology. Students develop a deeper understanding of healthcare delivery while exploring psychological theories and their applications. The third year focuses on advanced nursing and psychological science, including mental health nursing, clinical governance, leadership, cognition, developmental psychology, psychological research methods, and research application. Students strengthen their ability to understand human behaviour, evaluate evidence, and apply knowledge to patient care. The fourth year continues advanced professional learning and clinical development, integrating nursing skills, psychological insights, and evidence-based practice. Throughout the program, students develop clinical reasoning, communication, leadership, research, and decision-making skills, preparing them to support the physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing of individuals across diverse healthcare settings.