Master of Psychology (Clinical)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Deakin University

Program Overview

The Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Deakin University is a 2-year full-time professional program designed to prepare graduates for professional practice as clinical psychologists. It combines advanced clinical psychology coursework, supervised professional practice and research training.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers psychological assessment, psychopathology, clinical intervention, professional practice, research methods and clinical psychology across different populations, alongside supervised clinical placements.

Year 2: Focuses on advanced clinical assessment and intervention, further supervised clinical practice and completion of a research project, developing professional skills across a range of clinical settings.

Focus Areas: Clinical Psychology, Psychological Assessment, Psychopathology, Clinical Intervention, Evidence-Based Practice, Professional Practice, Research and Clinical Placement.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop advanced skills in psychological assessment, diagnosis, formulation and intervention, apply evidence-based approaches, conduct clinical research and practise ethically and professionally with diverse client groups.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and provides the fifth and sixth years of psychology training. Graduates can pursue general registration as a psychologist and further supervised practice toward endorsement in Clinical Psychology.

Reputation (Employability): The program integrates supervised clinical placements with academic and research training, providing practical experience across clinical and community settings and preparing graduates for professional clinical psychology practice.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Deakin University, the Master of Psychology (Clinical) program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn about psychological principles but also apply them in real-world settings. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various facilities and tools that enhance your educational journey.

As a student in this program, you will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support your development as a clinical psychologist. Here are some key features of the experiential learning opportunities available to you:

- Clinical Placement Opportunities: Engage in supervised placements in diverse clinical settings, allowing you to apply your skills and gain invaluable experience working with clients.
- Simulation Labs: Utilize advanced simulation labs equipped with the latest technology to practice assessment and intervention techniques in a controlled environment.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research laboratories where you can conduct studies and contribute to ongoing psychological research projects.
- Digital Tools: Gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as SPSS for statistical analysis and other digital tools that enhance your research capabilities.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on group projects that simulate real-world clinical scenarios, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for your future career.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various mental health organizations and community services, providing insights into the practical applications of your studies.
- Library Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to psychological databases, journals, and a wealth of literature to support your academic work.
- Deakin’s Psychology Clinic: Work in Deakin’s on-campus psychology clinic, where you can gain hands-on experience providing psychological services to the community under professional supervision.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Psychology (Clinical) from Deakin University opens up a world of opportunities in the mental health field. You’ll be well-prepared for roles such as Clinical Psychologist, Mental Health Consultant, and Rehabilitation Counsellor. The skills and knowledge you gain will not only enhance your employability but also position you for a rewarding career dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Deakin offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events that connect you with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the Master of Psychology (Clinical) program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average salary for clinical psychologists in Australia is around AUD 85,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Deakin has strong partnerships with various health organizations and mental health services, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), ensuring that your qualification meets national standards and is recognized across the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Deakin graduates are known for their practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making them highly sought after by employers in the mental health sector.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Psychology (Clinical), you may choose to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). These advanced degrees can lead to specialized roles in research, academia, or higher-level clinical practice, further enhancing your career prospects and expertise in the field.