Study area
Psychology
Psychology is a fascinating and diverse area of study that explores the human experience and touches upon many aspects of daily life. It seeks to answer questions about how and why we behave the way we do. A degree in psychology will help you develop a scientific understanding of human thoughts and behaviours, the processes underlying these and the relationship of these processes to the brain.
Psychology is the interface between the brain and our behaviour. Delving into the inner workings of the mind provides an invaluable understanding of how we view the world and how we operate.
You'll learn about theory and practice in areas such as clinical psychology, social psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, cognition, perception, psychopathology, and industrial and organisational psychology.You will explore the measurement of psychological abilities, how these develop through the lifespan and the processes that govern relationships between people and groups in society. You'll also develop an understanding of how psychological processes are affected by ageing, brain damage and disease.
The universal nature of psychology means it complements any kind of study.
Top five reasons to study Psychology at UWA
1. Ranked 1st in WA for Psychology for the last four years (QS WUR by Subject 2024), and 91.3% satisfaction rate for teaching quality as rated by our postgraduate students (Good Universities Guide 2024)
2. Research consistently rated as 'well above world standard'
3. Learn with research leaders who are doing the research that informs our understanding and practice of psychology.
4. Options to take psychology as part of a comprehensive degree and pair with another major, focus more on psychology in the Bachelor of Psychology or choose a combined bachelor's degree
5. Continuing postgraduate pathways are UWA in both professional programs, such as clinical, industrial and organisational psychology, and upskilling options like business psychology.
World-class facilities
The Robin Winkler Clinic provides individual and group psychological treatment and neuropsychological assessment for people of all ages and backgrounds. The clinic is linked with the School of Psychological Sciences at The University of Western Australia.
Other facilities include our research centres and many laboratories exploring areas such as biological psychology and cognitive neuroscience, clinical psychology and clinical neuropsychology, cognitive science, developmental psychology, industrial and organisational psychology and human factors and perception.
Where our graduates go
master of industrial and organisational psychology graduate
"UWA's Industrial and Organisational Psychology program provided me with diverse placement experience, in conjunction with valuable support and one-to-one coaching. These relationships continue to play an integral part in my professional development."
Industry snapshot
Understanding how people think and what motivates them is a valuable skill in many positions across workplaces. And with mental health and wellbeing identified as a critical area of health, training in psychology is increasingly important. This is evidenced by demand for psychologists growing, with the career predicted to have a 13.3% increase in job prospects over the next five years.
With a psychology degree, you’re well placed to pursue careers in both the arts and science fields, depending on your personal interests. There are many options within public and private healthcare, education, mental health support, social work, therapy and counselling. These roles may be advisory, research-led, treatment-led or therapeutic. Traditional career paths often require postgraduate studies and registration as a psychologist.
Potential traditional careers
- Clinical psychologist
- Clinical neuropsychologist
- Industrial and organisational psychologist
- Educational and development psychologist
- School psychologist
- Sport psychologist
- Health psychologist
- Forensic psychologist
Potential non-traditional careers
- Social worker
- Counsellor
- Human resources manager
- Health and welfare services manager
- Teacher
- Researcher
- Media officer
- Marketing executive
Source: 2022 Graduate Outcomes Survey – Longitudinal
Undergraduate courses
To find out more about our range of undergraduate courses, visit Our courses explained.
- Majors
- Minors
- Bachelor's degrees
- Combined Bachelor's Degrees
- Honours
Postgraduate courses
- Graduate certificates
- Master’s degrees
- Research degrees
Looking to make a positive impact in society?
Hear from Tannielle, a UWA Psychology student and performing artist, who hopes to run arts workshops in Aboriginal communities to improve mental health.
Read Tannielle’s storyHave a question? Get in touch with us
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