COURSE CURRICULUM

The psychology curriculum offers a comprehensive progression through the scientific foundations, theoretical frameworks and applied skills that shape modern psychological practice. Students begin with an introduction to core concepts in psychology, linking scientific research to evidence-based practice while developing essential academic skills such as scientific writing, independent learning and critical engagement with readings. Foundational subjects examine the biological and psychological systems that underlie human behaviour, covering historical perspectives, brain and nervous system function, lifespan development, motivation, emotion, stress, health and cultural psychology. As students advance, they explore how individuals perceive, learn and interact with the world, studying perception, intelligence, memory, cognition, abnormal psychology and social influences on behaviour. A strong research component runs throughout the program, with dedicated subjects in research methods and statistics that teach students how to formulate hypotheses, design studies, interpret data and apply statistical tests such as t-tests, correlations and chi-square. Further subjects investigate personality theories, intelligence, measurement issues, and the biological mechanisms of behaviour, including genetics, psychophysiology, conditioning, learning and attention. Students also delve into perception and cognition through behavioural and neuropsychological research, gaining hands-on experience in conducting, analysing and interpreting experiments. Developmental and social psychology subjects trace behavioural changes from infancy to adulthood and examine social identity, attitudes, prejudice and workplace behaviour, with attention to ethical issues and Indigenous perspectives. Applied subjects prepare students for professional practice through training in counselling micro-skills, assessment procedures, intervention programs, and developmental approaches to mental health. Higher-level conceptual subjects explore the historical and philosophical foundations of psychology, from early scientific traditions and empiricism to behaviourism, cognitivism, constructivism and contemporary debates about science and knowledge. Advanced statistical subjects further build skills in research design, multivariate analysis, regression and factor analysis, forming essential preparation for Honours and postgraduate study.