Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions2022-10-30T18:16:57+11:00
To be a registered psychologist, do I need a master degree?2022-10-30T18:20:37+11:00

There are three current pathways to registration with the Psychology Board of Australia plus a teaching period for a fourth pathway:

  1. an accredited 5th and 6th year Master degree
  2. a five-year accredited sequence of study plus a one-year Board approved internship (5+1);
  3. an overseas qualification deemed by the Board to be substantially equivalent to pathways 1 or 2
  4. a four-year accredited sequence of study followed by a two-year Board approved internship (4+2); Note entrance to this pathway is now closed, but those already completing the pathway can continue to do so until 2027

For more information about the Board’s registration requirements, visit www.psychologyboard.gov.au.

The College of Professional Psychology’s Registration Programs fulfil the requirements of the 4+2 and 5+1 pathways to general registration and support those working in addition to pursuing a Master degree (5th year or 5th and 6th year). Our programs place an emphasis on the development of practical skills. Participation in a Master program may be more suitable if you wish to pursue an academic or research-based career in Psychology.

I only have a 3-year degree. Can I practice as a psychologist?2022-10-30T18:08:02+11:00

No. PsyBA requires an accredited five-year sequence of study with an additional year internship, or a four-year sequence of study plus two years internship if you commenced this pathway prior to 30th June 2022 or a two-year master degree in order to be registered as a psychologist. Further information about approved psychology courses may be obtained from the APS website www.psychology.org.au or registration requirements from the Psychology Board’s website www.psychologyboard.gov.au

Why should I attend the College of Professional Psychology with its structured approach, when I can find an independent psychologist to supervise me to meet the Board’s requirements?2022-10-30T18:08:09+11:00

Our programs meet all of the Psychology Board of Australia requirements for general registration and provide a solid foundation of knowledge and practical skills over and above minimum requirements to enable you to enter the workforce as a competent and confident registered psychologist.

We provide

  • all supervision requirements of PsyBA. Our individual and group supervisors are dedicated, currently practising professionals who provide both clinical support and guidance as well as academic support throughout your program
  • Professional Development online workshops that address all of the Board’s core competencies
  • training in and access to a wide range of PsyBA required mandatory and elective psychometric assessments
  • advice and support regarding the PsyBA guidelines and preparation of all PsyBA assessment tasks
  • training and support in the preparation of Case Reports
  • preparation for the National Psychology Examination, including e-learning modules, library resources and an exam study group.
I would like to become either a clinical psychologist or a child psychologist. Can I do this through the College?2022-10-30T18:09:28+11:00

Our programs do not lead to endorsement as a clinical psychologist. Our programs are designed to meet the requirements for attaining general registration as a psychologist. However, upon receiving your general registration from the Board (after completing your internship), it is possible to work in these fields as a general psychologist, depending on the job requirements or continue to further specialist study leading to clinical psychologist endorsement.

Can I work full-time whilst completing the registration program?2022-10-30T18:10:19+11:00

Yes. Approximately 95% of our interns are engaged in full-time, paid work. Our programs are flexible and geared around the full-time employee. Workshops and group supervision are conducted in the evenings and at weekends. Where possible, supervisors are allocated based on interns’ work and other commitments.

What sort of jobs/industries are interns employed in?2022-10-30T18:11:13+11:00

Our interns are employed in a variety of roles in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Current interns are employed in rehabilitation, employment services, community, family and child psychology, early intervention, juvenile justice, NDIS and mental health roles.

Is entry to the College competitive?2022-10-30T18:11:51+11:00

Yes. You must undergo a selection process, which consists of an application and a structured interview. These are used to examine the fit between the goals and structure of the College’s registration program and the needs of the individual.

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