Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PhD (Clinical Psychology)?

A four-year program that integrates doctoral-level research with clinical psychology training. It leads to General Registration as a psychologist and provides a pathway to Clinical Endorsement.

What is the application process?

Applicants must have:

  • Completed a Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8) accredited by the APAC, and you have achieved a minimum result of upper second class honours.
  • You have completed the first year of the coursework component of the Master of Psychology (Clinical) at UNE with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6.0, or are enrolled in the MPscyh (Clinical) Advanced Entry (MPSYAE) program with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6.0 in 5th/6th year units.
  • You have completed a PhD research proposal, and you have approval to transfer from the MPsych (Clinical) or MPSYAE into the PhD Clinical Psychology from the PhD Clinical Psychology Course Co-Ordinator.
  • Evidence of Supervision. You must provide evidence that at least one UNE academic staff member has agreed to support your application/supervise your research. For example, email communication with your proposed supervisor, or a successful expression of interest. More information can be found on the HDR Programs and How to Apply/Enrol page.

Futher application information, click here.

Is this course available online?

Yes — all coursework is fully online. However, students must complete 1,000 hours of in-person clinical placement and a major research thesis.

For more information on placements, go to the Clinical Advanced Entry FAQs.

What kind of research will I do?

You’ll complete original research in an area relevant to clinical psychology. Projects are supervised by academic staff and designed to produce a doctoral thesis that contributes to both science and practice.

 What careers does this lead to?

Graduates become registered clinical psychologists and hold the title of Doctor. They’re well positioned for roles in:

  • Clinical leadership
  • Specialist practice
  • Academic or research careers
  • Policy, supervision, and training roles
What financial support or scholarships are available?

All students

Indigenous students

Students from rural, regional or remote areas

How can I find a Supervisor?

Ready to explore potential supervisors? Try our Find an Expert tool:

Find an Expert

Alternatively, visit the staff page of our Faculty/School to see who aligns with your research interests. While reaching out to a supervisor before applying can be helpful, it’s not required to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the course.

How long does it take to complete the PhD?
Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • 8 years part-time
What are the milestones involved in the PhD?

Milestone reviews are designed to support and facilitate your progress towards your thesis submission date, providing you with an opportunity to receive structured feedback on progress to date.

For details on milestones within the Graduate Research School, click here.

The course of study shall comprise a program of course work and practicum experiences and a research thesis on an approved topic:

(a) a first year of course work study in clinical psychology; completion of a practicum placement and completion of the proposal for the thesis research completed as part of the Master of Psychology (Clinical);

(b) a second and third year including further course work study in clinical psychology; completion of practicum placement(s); and work focused on thesis research; and

(c) a final year devoted to thesis research completion and completion of a final practicum if not completed earlier.