Health

Bachelor of Psychological Science

What is a Bachelor of Psychological Science?

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is designed to equip you with a broad theoretical base in psychology and introduce you to the application of the skills, tools and techniques of the discipline. This Psychological Science degree is your first step towards becoming a professional psychologist. This course is currently seeking accreditation by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).

During this course, you will gain a foundation of psychological knowledge and the ability to analyse, critique and apply this knowledge in a culturally appropriate manner. You will develop your communication skills, as well as an understanding of the importance of ethics and values, and their role in psychology. In addition to specialised studies in psychology, you will undertake a range of other subjects to strengthen transferrable skills and broaden your education, outlook and employability.

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Learning outcomes

Integrate concepts, theories, and key proponents of the discipline of psychology.
Evaluate innovative and evidence-based psychological solutions to complex problems in a variety of professional settings.
Apply ethical and respectful communication skills to positively impact diversity in a professional context.
Exercise critical judgement skills in psychological literacy for advocacy and empowerment with a social justice professional focus.
Exhibit inclusive interpersonal skills to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.
Optimise learning opportunities and psychological skills from a range of contexts to support personal and professional growth.
Critique and articulate evidence and research in a variety of formats in the social and behavioural sciences.

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Study mode

Online

Campus locations

Online

Student

Domestic

Course duration

3 years full time, 6 years part time

Start date

19 Feb 2024

3 June 2024

16 Sep 2024

View all key dates

Fees & scholarships

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This is an AQF Level 7 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

Ultimate flexibility

With the option to study full or part time and all your course materials online, you can tailor your study to suit your lifestyle.

Learn from specialists in their field

Our academics understand where the industry is heading and will guide you on your learning journey.

A Success Coach

An ally to encourage, inspire and guide, your Success Coach will help you achieve your goals and create the right trajectory for your career.

Understand the mind and human behaviour with our new degree in Psychological Science, delivered 100 per cent online.

Career opportunities

Successfully completing a Bachelor of Psychological Science will open doors for you in a range of fields. Support wellbeing in community-focused roles or use your skills in advertising or human resources.

Community Health Officer
Average salary: $81,500 - $121,114
Health Information Manager
Average salary: $91,555 – $127,545
Health Policy Advisor
Average salary: $103,000 - $116,000
Human Resources Manager
Average salary: $113,343 - $146,609

Learn more about careers in Health

Subjects and units

Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising 3 hours of facilitated study and 7 hours self-directed study.

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Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Electives

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Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

The Evolution of Psychology | HPSYSD101

This subject provides you with the opportunity to explore historical and contemporary schools of thought within psychology to obtain an understanding of what constitutes the discipline of psychology. You will develop an understanding of psychology, with an emphasis on the impact of significant psychologists and the historical and social events that shaped the evolution of the field as a science. The subject will give you the opportunity to examine those factors that have both directly and indirectly shaped the discipline of today.
Lifespan Development | HCCSSD104

This subject introduces you to the field of developmental psychology and explores what drives or motivates human behaviour. It examines the key life stages from birth to death, taking into account social and cultural contexts. You will be introduced to scholarly work about human development and models for critical self-reflection. Drawing on a range of disciplines, topics include theories of attachment, cognitive and social development, trauma responses at various stages of development, and the role of families and communities in supporting healthy development. You will be required to reflect on your own lifespan development.
Brain and Behaviour | HPSYSD103

In this subject you will gain further understanding of the methods and concepts of psychology with a focus on the biological bases of behaviour. There will be a particular focus on the neurological structures and function that underly human behaviour, including the neuron and the brain, as well as their impact on human behaviour, our states of consciousness, memory, language, thinking, intelligence, and learning. Together with Fundamentals of Personal and Social Behaviour, this subject provides you with sufficient background for further studies in psychology.
Evidence-based Practice | EBP107A

This subject provides you with an introduction to the essential components of evidence-based practice: health informatics, research and digital literacy, and critical thinking. You will develop the skills necessary to locate, critique and interpret a research article, and gain an understanding of how research evidence is translated into practice. You will become familiar with quantitative and qualitative evidence, research methodology, basic descriptive and inferential statistics and the foundational skills to evaluate and appraise evidence in healthcare.
Fundamentals of Personal and Social Behaviour | HPSYSD104

This level one psychology subject introduces you to the discipline by looking at how psychologists gather and explain information in a range of topic areas. It familiarises you with theories and principles of personality, interpersonal and social behaviour, as well as models and criteria of abnormal behaviour. You are further introduced to key theories and features in a personal and professional context across the lifespan.
Mental Health | HCCSSD103

This subject provides you with a foundational understanding of mental health, including definitions of mental health, mental health theories, risk factors and disorders. You’ll also learn about the impact of mental illness on the individual and develop skills in crisis management, particularly as it relates to clients with mental health issues.
Professional Communication and Collaboration | HSC101

Professional Communication and Collaboration will introduce you to the skills required by health professionals to enable effective interactions within a wide variety of inter-personal and inter-professional workplace settings. You will work on developing practical skills to assist in the building, maintenance, and endings of professional relationships with clients, other professionals, and members of the community across multi-modal communication settings. You will be introduced to frameworks promoting change, compliance, self-efficacy, goal-setting and collaboration. This subject will also cover those foundational counselling skills that are applicable to a wide variety of health professions, such as core counselling behaviours, listening skills, and communication micro-skills. Sessions facilitate your understanding of the importance of ethical communication, diversity and inclusion considerations, professional expectations and the development of professional behaviours including self-reflection and self-care. Agile and adaptable communication skills to support working with clients and with other professionals collaboratively and inclusively, allowing for conflict resolution and appropriate endings of relationships.
Social and Emotional Wellbeing | HWEL2006

This subject covers the principles of social, emotional and psychological health, as well as how they relate to health behaviours. You will analyse the role of capacity building and the promotion of wellbeing through mindfulness, positive behavioural change and resilience.

Requirements

These six core subjects must be completed. Additionally you're required to select two elective from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Psychology of Personality | HPSYSD201

This subject will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the contemporary study of personality through an exploration of a range of theoretical frameworks and methodologies. You will be given the tools to evaluate the psychoanalytic, dispositional, phenomenological, cognitive, behavioural, social learning, trait, and cross-cultural theories in relation to their scientific status and practical applicability. You will be enabled to develop and enhance your understanding of how personality differences impact behaviour and issues in contemporary society.
First Peoples Cultures, History and Health | FPH201

This subject equips you with specific foundational knowledge for understanding the Gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and provides key resources to support evidence-based culturally sensitive and accessible care that meets the needs of First Nations People. You will gain an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health from pre-colonisation to the present, examining health issues in historical, political and policy contexts. Learn how colonial history has determined power relations between healthcare professionals and First Nations People, and how that impacts health, demographic and socioeconomic trends and outcomes. Incorporate cultural awareness to improve interprofessional health practice and advocate for improved health outcomes and empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Social Psychology | HPSYSD203
This subject will further develop your understanding of the concepts, theories and methods of Social Psychology and the relationship between people and their social environment. The key theories and concepts within the area will be explored across a broad range of topics including:

Social cognition.

Attitude formation and change.

Group processes and decision-making.

Prejudice and intergroup behaviour.

Aggression.

Attraction and close relationships.

Prosocial behaviour.

You will further focus on the applications of social psychology including the impact of culture on social behaviour.
Biological and Learning Psychology | HPSYSD202

The content of this subject will further develop your understanding of the tenets of learning theory and the facets of the biological sciences that underly the discipline of psychology. You will develop a deeper understanding of the nature of learning and its implications for how people interact with their environment. Contemporary neurobiological explanations of human behaviour will be explored, the anatomical, biochemical, genetic and physiological basis of brain function and dysfunction, and their implications for human behaviour.
Diversity and Inclusion | HCCSSD202

This subject develops your understanding of diversity in Australia across a range of population groups. You will develop the skills to work ethically and effectively with LGBTQI+ groups, migrants, multicultural communities, people of different ages and social gradient, people with disabilities and First Nations people. Examine the various concepts of citizen, consumer, service user, client and consultant to understand how different agencies define the rights and responsibilities of people accessing services. Drawing on case studies, research and current affairs, you will gain an understanding of Othering in contemporary Australian society and demonstrate skills in cultural literacy.
Social Justice | HCCSSD205

This subject will introduce you to concepts of social justice and human rights through the analysis of national and international issues. In particular you will be asked to critically examine key debates in human rights discourse, ethical frameworks and the relevance of social justice for people who experience disadvantage. You will examine the effectiveness of legal responses and social change strategies. Social justice and the advocacy role of the professional will be explored. You will explore historical and contemporary challenges facing social justice issues.

Requirements

These six core subjects must be completed. Additionally you're required to select two elective from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Cognition and Human Performance | HPSYSD304

In this subject you will be enabled to further your knowledge of the theories, models, and principles of cognitive and affective psychology. You will further advance your understanding of cognitive processes (including sensation and perception, attention, memory processes, reasoning and decision-making, and language) and how these processes impact human skilled performance. The subject will allow you to explore how humans experience moods, emotions and feelings and their impact on motivation in a variety of performance settings. You will have the opportunity to apply knowledge of the effect that individual motivation has on performance.
Principles of Psychological Assessment | HPSYSD305

This subject will provide you with the opportunity to understand the fundamentals of psychological measurement. It will cover the nature of psychological assessment and its psychometric properties (including concepts of reliability, validity, and norms) to develop your understanding of how the psychological characteristic that distinguish and define individuals are measured. You will further become familiar with a variety of psychological scales, their construction and application, as well as the ethical and social issues surrounding test administration in a diversity of population settings. The subject will have practical applicability for people intending to work in psychology and related areas (e.g., clinical and counselling, educational, organisational, and developmental settings) which have a focus on individual differences and assessment.
Twenty First Century Psychology - Issues and Applications | PSY301

This subject gives you the opportunity to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired from your study of psychology to address both personal and professional development needs. By providing you with material from contemporary life settings, personal, professional and societal, the content will assist you to investigate and understand the how, when, where and why of the application of psychological concepts and principles. Your teamwork and leadership skills will be fostered in this subject through peer collaboration. You will utilise ethical, cultural and professional frameworks in the development of a solution to a social or community issue.
Abnormal Psychology | HPSYSD302

This subject will enable you to develop a greater understanding of the conceptualisation of normality and abnormality. Its focus will be on a critical examination of the social, cultural, biological and psychological factors that have both a reciprocal influence on and contribute to the expression of psychopathology. You will become familiar with the diagnosis and classification of psychological disorders (including, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and psychopathology across the lifespan) according to the diagnostic manual used by the discipline in Australia. You will furthermore learn about the various interventions currently utilised and evaluate these interventions and the ethical issues surrounding them for the purpose of understanding the impact of psychopathology at both an individual and societal level. The subject will further explore the National Standards for the Mental Health Workforce to assist with an understanding of how other mental health professionals conceptualise psychological issues and to facilitate your ability to effectively work and communicate with such professionals.
Critical Literature Review | CLR308A

This subject builds on established knowledge of literature search methods and critical appraisal skills to culminate in a review that conforms to publication standards. You will have an opportunity to critically examine the current literature to answer a chosen research question that will inform clinical decision-making. You will write a literature review that appraises the current knowledge base, highlighting strengths, weaknesses and omissions in existing literature.
Empowerment and Advocacy | HCCSSD309

This subject examines concepts of empowerment and advocacy in the context of individuals, communities and cultural and structural institutions. Topics include theories of power and oppression, social movements, vulnerable populations and anti-oppressive practice. You will examine the link between human rights and health and wellbeing; the rights of citizens, workers and vulnerable groups; and the practice of advocacy in promoting social change. You will also develop an understanding of the role of government, the non-government sector and the business sector in relation to community services work.

Business Human Resources

Understanding People and Organisations | BIZ102

The aim of this subject is to develop an understanding of modern organisations, their structure and how people collaborate within these structures to achieve the organisation’s strategic objectives and deal with the uncertainty of the 21st Century economy. This knowledge will form a foundation of theoretical knowledge about organisational behaviour that will be built on in future subjects. Moreover, it will develop the student’s emotional intelligence and the understanding of their strengths and their application in the business context. These learning objectives will be achieved through a mixture of theoretical readings, class discussions and group projects focusing on how theoretical concepts apply to the work environment. Additionally, reflective journals will be used to apply theory to develop the students own professional capability.
Organisational Pschology - Worker and Workplace Wellbeing | PSY101

This subject introduces students to the major human resources functions within organisations. It familiarizes you with the core theoretical models and principles of Human Resource Management providing you with an opportunity to develop an understanding of the underlying knowledge in the area. You will discover the various components of the human management resource process and the associated activities which enable these functions to occur. This will enable you to identify and explain the important role played by well-managed human resources in the advancement of both organisational and individual outcomes.
Organisational Psychology - Human Factors | PSY302

This subject introduces students to concepts and theories of adult learning, principles of instructional design and the relationship between motivation and learning. You will become familiar with the phases of the training process and the activities associated with each phase and their key role in organisations. Students will be given the opportunity to develop a viable training program to fit a variety of organizational requirements for employee training and development.
Corporate Health | HWEL2010

The occupational environment plays an import role in combating or promoting the rise of chronic disease and disability. This environment has the capacity to affect the physical, psychological, economic and social well-being of workers’ and thus, proper attention to workers’ health offers vast opportunities for workers and employers alike. In this subject students will explore evidence linking worker health and wellbeing to organizational health and business performance. Specific analysis for business needed will be considered, with practical interventions designed to education and enhance the occupational environment.

Counselling / Community Services

Case Management and Understanding Community Services | HCCSSD101

This subject examines the practice and skills required for case management and program development in community services. It includes an overview of the theory and practice of program planning, development and evaluation that address the diverse and varied needs of clients. You will be introduced to appropriate professional standards in case management and learn to develop a case management plan that helps you advocate for and empower clients within an ethical framework. You will have the opportunity to apply theory to practice in a community services setting.
Mediation and Conflict | HCCSSD203

This subject looks at the nature of interpersonal conflict, and explores strategies for resolution such as mediation, conferencing and restorative justice. It begins by considering the nature of conflict, theories about causes, and how conflict manifests in different relationships and communities. You will be introduced to key conflict management strategies, learning to reduce unhealthy forms of conflict and create positive relationships based on empathy and understanding. You will also consider anger management strategies in addressing entrenched, high-conflict situations.
Chronic Illness and Disability | HCCSSD206

This subject begins with a constructivist analysis of disability, exploring a range of approaches for working with disabled people. You will explore the ways people with chronic illnesses and disabilities experience their embodiedness via the social, medical and somatic models. You will also be introduced to advocacy and support skills appropriate to working with people with disabilities and those with chronic illness in the community services and counselling fields, and gain an understanding of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Environmental Change and Resilience | HCCSSD207

Based on social ecology, ecofeminism and ecopsychology, this subject provides you with the theories and practices to facilitate ecological consciousness and the ability to live psychosocially and ecologically sustainable lives. This subject is grounded in scientifically supported recognition that the world’s population is increasingly impacted by the effects of climate change, reduced mental health and resilience, and a decline in physical health and immunity against microorganisms. You will explore your own issues with sustainable living and be introduced to ecologically aware techniques designed to facilitate resilience.
Understanding Addictions | HCCSSD301

This subject provides you with an overview of addiction theories and research across different forms of addictive behaviours that present in the community. The subject adopts a multi-disciplinary approach to examine the biological, psychological and social factors associated with addictive behaviours. You will critically reflect on the shift from the disease model to approaches that draw on behavioural and social scientific theories; investigate the controversies and social stigma surrounding drug and alcohol use; and discuss the contrasting ideologies underpinning harm minimisation, risk and abstinence. The subject also covers policy informing programs, and the dominant models for drug and alcohol counselling.
Child Protection | HCCSSD308

The subject examines the concept of the protection of children and broadens the debate to include societal factors such as poverty, unemployment, family violence, culture and ethnicity, class and gender as part of the broader picture. You will examine the origins of the professional regulation of child welfare, as well as the moral imperative surrounding child protection issues. You will also address challenges of the care and protection of children, as well as the professional challenges in developing a best-practice approach.
Grief, Loss and Death | HCCSSD310

In this subject you will be introduced to the idea of death as a part of the life process. You will learn stages of grief models and relevant approaches to working with clients, including crisis intervention and bereavement counselling. The subject explores cultural differences and diversity in attitudes toward death and dying, and culturally sensitive communication with clients and their significant others. Important aspects of this topic are the concept of dying a good death, the challenges of working with clients who are vulnerable, the spiritual elements of death and the potential for developing resilience in the process of loss. You will critically reflect on processes for self-care and boundary management.

Health and Well-Being

Health Promotion | HPR200A

This subject provides you with knowledge and understanding of health promotion concepts in various settings within Australia. You will be introduced to the key theories and concepts around behavioural change as it relates to health status. This subject will also give you the opportunity to use your knowledge to devise and assess health promotion interventions.
Understanding Health | HWEL2002A

This subject provides students an introduction to the diversity of health theories and initiatives to improve health outcomes. Students will engage with key concepts including human right to health, social determinants of health, equality, equity and vulnerability. An introduction to Australia’s health system and intersectoral action will also be provided.
Understanding Addictions | HCCSSD301

This subject provides you with an overview of addiction theories and research across different forms of addictive behaviours that present in the community. The subject adopts a multi-disciplinary approach to examine the biological, psychological and social factors associated with addictive behaviours. You will critically reflect on the shift from the disease model to approaches that draw on behavioural and social scientific theories; investigate the controversies and social stigma surrounding drug and alcohol use; and discuss the contrasting ideologies underpinning harm minimisation, risk and abstinence. The subject also covers policy informing programs, and the dominant models for drug and alcohol counselling.
Positive Ageing | POA304

This subject provides an overview of the ageing process and how it impacts individuals and societies. You will examine the cultural, political, theoretical and practical psycho/social/physical aspects of ageing. You will explore how to extend purpose, meaningful life, health, community participation and wellbeing in the transition to post-retirement life. The subject also explores the role of professional carers and support staff in helping individuals to remain well, independent and engaged in self-determination as they age.

Entry details

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

If you are truly passionate about health, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of health scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the health industry:

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Year 12 (Australian secondary school certificate) or equivalent

Vocational qualification ( AQF level 5) or above, or equivalent

OR

Successful completion of a Higher Education qualification

The below is an alternative option.

Work and life experience that demonstrates skills and knowledge gained through paid or unpaid employment, formal learning and/or non-formal learning (presented on a current resume with attached cover letter).

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Frequently asked questions

What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?

Torrens University Australia no longer considers ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) as our primary entry requirement. We have removed ATAR as the key admissions criteria for applicants aiming to study at Torrens University Australia. We strongly believed an alternative to the ATAR system should be found, which more broadly assesses students, especially when soft skills are emerging as important employability attributes. So, students with a recent secondary school education are now considered for admission if they have a Year 12 (Australian secondary school) certificate. Exceptions may apply to some courses.
What if  I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has a range of application pathways to help you gain entry into our degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study Pathways or contact our Future Student Advisors.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
If you are a domestic student attending university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

You are eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for a unit of study (i.e. subject) if you:

Undertake study with an approved provider.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements:

An Australian citizen or a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency criteria and who will undertake, in Australia, at least one unit of study contributing to your course; OR

A permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be a resident in Australia for the duration of your unit; OR

Are a permanent visa holder who is undertaking bridging study for overseas-trained professionals, and will be a resident in Australia for the duration of the study.

Enrolled in an eligible unit of study by the census date for the unit.

Have not exceeded the FEE-HELP limit.

For full details, visit the Australian Government website Study Assist.

If you are still unsure, please contact our Future Student Advisors who can talk you through the information.

Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available for most courses upon application and academic approval (excluding Higher Degree by Research programs). 

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Review our Course Credits page or chat to our Future Student Advisors.
What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that recognises experience, previous study and qualifications, and other forms of informal and non-formal learning, to determine if you meet course requirements.

If you have relevant qualifications or experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course and a reduction in tuition costs.

Please speak to our Future Student Advisors to discuss your prior learning experiences.

For more information, please visit Course credits.
How do I apply for a scholarship?

Torrens University has a wide range of scholarship options to support new, returning, international and Australian students. They all include a reduction in tuition fees, and some scholarships include a mentoring component with our industry partners.

Domestic students

When you speak to our Future Student Advisors, let them know you wish to be considered for a scholarship in your application form. They will show you how to apply for a scholarship.

International students

Please contact your Education Agent for further information. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 575 803 or by email.

For more details, explore our range of scholarships.

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Bachelor of Psychological Science