Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Guaranteed ATAR: 70.00
Entry is based on recent secondary (ATAR), higher education (GPA), VET study, work experience, or a bachelor qualification (or overseas equivalent).
Entry is based on Australian Year 12 equivalence, or a bachelor qualification (or overseas equivalent). English language requirements must also be met.
- 2 or 3 years full-time
- Up to 5 or up to 10 years part-time
- 061357K
| Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2026 | Trimester 2 – June 2026 | Trimester 3 – October 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochure
Do you want to understand more about what drives human behaviour? Gain in-depth knowledge of the scientific study of human behaviour, as well as research and analytical experience, with UNE's innovative Bachelor of Psychological Science. Delivered flexibly online or on campus, our accredited three-year undergraduate degree is designed to give you a balanced education with a psychology focus.
Along with completing a mandatory minor in Psychological Health and Wellbeing, you will have the freedom to choose electives from any unit offered by UNE. With opportunities to focus your study with a Community Services major, Counselling major, or Criminology minor, our course allows you to future fit your career by developing transferable skills that are highly valued in the workplace and opening doors to further advanced study in psychology.
Why study the Bachelor of Psychological Science with UNE?
Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour – our individual characteristics and abilities, how we act in social situations, how our brain works, and how our experiences and biology interact to produce normal and abnormal behaviour. UNE's Bachelor of Psychological Science provides you with a thorough grounding in the core areas of psychology and emphasises the development of transferrable skills, ensuring you're able to change and adapt to challenges and opportunities in the workplace.
Explore a wide range of subjects, studying more focused psychology units as you progress through each year of the degree. Our Bachelor of Psychological Science includes the study of the history and philosophy of psychology, motivation, emotion, social psychology, the biological bases of behaviour, cognition, language and more.
As Australia's oldest regional university and a pioneer in the delivery of distance education, UNE is a proven expert online. Students consistently award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
What makes our course different?
Flexibility is key to our Bachelor of Psychological Science, and we offer blended delivery of the course to suit your needs. By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online learning. In fact, UNE is Australia's longest continuous provider of distance (now online) education. Our course gives you opportunities to:
- Gain an APAC-accredited undergraduate psychology sequence in preparation for a fourth-year psychology program such as the Bachelor of Psychology with Honours if your goal is to become a practising psychologist.*
- Pursue a career in counselling with our Counselling major, where you will develop key theoretical knowledge and practice-based experience counselling skills in a blended learning format. This is also a direct pathway to UNE's accredited postgraduate counselling courses.
- Develop theoretical and practical skills in case management with our Community Services major. With 2 work placements to provide you with real world experience in the field, this major will set you up to take advantage of the major growth forecast for this sector.
- Add value to roles in health and social care, community services and youth work with an understanding of the social factors that underpin crime. Our Criminology minor provides you with knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system, and covers topics such as victimology, working with offenders, and drugs, alcohol and crime in Australia.
- Complement your knowledge with our Psychological Health and Wellbeing minor, which includes units exploring motivation and emotion, health and sports psychology, and learning principles and behaviours change.
- Follow the study pathway that is most relevant to you, with the freedom to choose electives (up to 48 credit points) from any units offered by UNE, as long as you meet the individual requirements and timetabling constraints for the unit.
- Experience innovative teaching from friendly, experience staff. Our mission in the School of Psychology is to provide you with an excellent learning experience, with the support you need in order to thrive.
- Balance study with your existing commitments. We have course intakes in all three trimesters, and options to study online and on campus, meaning you can study at a time and place that suits you. Some units include intensive schools, giving you the opportunity to interact and engage with your peers and academic staff face-to-face at our vibrant Armidale campus.
Majors
- Community Services
- Counselling
Minors
- Criminology
- Psychological Health and Wellbeing
* Progression to a fourth-year psychology program, such as UNE's Bachelor of Psychology with Honours, for the purposes of obtaining provisional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia, requires you to have sufficient grades for entry. Places are competitive, and quotas apply.
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
If you are applying for admission under Rule A:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
If you are applying for admission under Rule B:
- A certified academic transcript of your relevant Bachelor qualification.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 72 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
- If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 96 credit points of Advanced Standing.
- If you are admitted under Rule B, you can apply for up to a further 24 credit points of Advanced Standing, including the qualification on which admission was based.
Select the option that best describes your experience.
You are currently studying Year 12 (school or TAFE) or have done so within the past 2 years.
If you are admitted on the basis of your ATAR, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
There are ATAR-related adjustments that can be applied to increase your rank when applying for this course.
UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
UNE can automatically award additional points as adjustment factors to the ATAR of eligible applicants for this course without the need for an additional application.
> Learn more about the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
Education Adjustment Scheme (EAS)
UNE acknowledges and provides consideration for applicants who have experienced an educational disadvantage. If you are planning to study on campus you can seek consideration for this scheme when applying for this course.
> Learn more about EAS
UNE Early Entry Program
Early Entry is open to all Year 12 applicants and relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and suitability for study. You can apply early, receive an offer and secure a place with UNE, even before your scores are released.
> Learn more about the UNE Early Entry Program
UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
This scheme provides eligible Year 12 applicants who have applied via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) the opportunity to receive early offers of undergraduate admission to UNE based on their school ratings and Year 11 results.
> Learn more about SRS
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have studied at UNE or other higher education institutions, completed or otherwise.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have undertaken any of the following qualifications with an appropriate Grade Point Average (GPA):
- Undergraduate Certificates
- Diplomas
- Advanced Diplomas/Associate degrees
- Bachelor degrees (if you have completed a Bachelor degree please see Rule B)
- Postgraduate degrees
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have undertaken VET study through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), e.g. TAFE.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken VET studies. When assessing your application, we will look at the following factors:
- Level and type of qualification (Certificate IV or above)
- Graded or ungraded (competency-based)
- Complete or incomplete.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You left high school more than two years ago or did not finish Year 12.
You can apply for this course on the basis of work and/or life experience via at least one of the following methods:
Professional Experience
If you have completed at least one year of paid professional experience, we can assess you for admission on this basis. Simply provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s in your application.
> Find out more about applying based on professional experience
> Learn about our Statement of Service requirements
Mature Age Special Entry
Tell us more about your work and life experience, demonstrating why you believe you will be successful in the course you are applying for. Simply complete the form and upload it in your application.
> Download the Mature Age Special Entry form (PDF)
Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
The STAT is a test that assesses a range of competencies considered important for successful tertiary study. UNE accepts the multiple-choice component provided you have completed it within the three years prior to course commencement.
> Visit ACER for more information
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
Foundation Program
This is a free (fees exempt) and 100% online program designed to help you prepare for university. It will provide you with all the skills needed to undertake undergraduate study.
> Learn more about the Foundation Program
TRACKS Indigenous Foundation Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
TRACKS is a foundation program run by the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre. Over two trimesters you will experience what university study is about and learn in a supported environment. Be part of a community of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who share your goals and interests.
> Learn more about TRACKS
Internal Selection Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
This program is designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who have professional work or community experience, or any formal VET qualifications, e.g. TAFE study.
> Learn more about the Internal Selection Program
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
In online mode, no core unit in this course has a mandatory intensive school, although some do offer optional intensive schools. Some units within the Counselling Major and the Community Services Major have mandatory online intensive schools. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
If you are applying for admission under Rule A:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- If you are applying through Mature Age Special Entry, you will need to include a completed Mature Age Special Entry form in your online application. Learn more about Mature Age Special Entry.
- If you are applying based on professional experience you will need to provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s on company letterhead. Learn about our Statement of Service requirements.
If you are applying for admission under Rule B:
- A certified academic transcript of your relevant Bachelor qualification.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 72 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
- If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 96 credit points of Advanced Standing.
- If you are admitted under Rule B, you can apply for up to a further 24 credit points of Advanced Standing, including the qualification on which admission was based.
Course structure
To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 144 credit points with not more than 60 credit points at 100-level and at least 36 credit points at 300-level. Candidates who complete a Minor must pass units to the value of 24 credit points. Candidates who complete a Major must pass units to the value of 48 credit points.
144 credit points
For candidates admitted under Rule A60 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introductory Psychology I (PSYC101) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Psychology II (PSYC102) – 6 credit points
- Social Psychology (PSYC200) – 6 credit points
- Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC202) – 6 credit points
- Cognitive Psychology (PSYC206) – 6 credit points
- Lifespan Developmental Psychology (PSYC213) – 6 credit points
- Psychopathology (PSYC363) – 6 credit points
- Biopsychology (PSYC366) – 6 credit points
- Individual Differences and Assessment (PSYC371) – 6 credit points
- Advanced Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC372) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following:
All students MUST complete the Psychological Health and Wellbeing Minor totalling 24 credit points;
and
ONE Approved Major totalling 48 credit points and Elective Units totalling 12 credit points;
or
ONE Approved Minor totalling 24 credit points and Elective Units totalling 36 credit points;
or
Elective Units totalling 60 credit points.
48 credit points
Complete the following units:
- Assessment and Management of Issues with Substance Use and Dependence (HLTH325) – 6 credit points
- The Contemporary Counsellor (HSCS100) – 6 credit points
- Culturally Responsive Counselling (HSCS200) – 6 credit points
- Lifespan Development (HSCS202) – 6 credit points
- Ethics, Law and Professional Practice (HSCS204) – 6 credit points
- The Skilled Counsellor (HSCS435) – 6 credit points
- Applied Counselling Theories (HSCS452) – 6 credit points
- Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention (HSSW307) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following units: Note the following: 150-hour fieldwork placement HLTH201 (which includes 6 weekly mandatory 1 hour and 1 full day mandatory online workshop) 250-hour fieldwork placement HLTH301 (which includes a mandatory 1day online workshop) Note: Students are encouraged to enrol in their placement units as soon as possible to ensure sufficient time to arrange each placement. A call for placement interest will occur each Trimester. To ensure students are compliant for placement, they are required to review information within the Unit Note of HLTH201 and HLTH301 in the UNE Course Handbook. There is a MyLearn site which you can self-enrol in which provides all the compliance and any Advanced Standing information. Note: Students must ensure there is a trimester of study between HLTH201 and HLTH301.- Introductory Client Centered Casework (HDCW114) – 6 credit points
- Foundations of Community Work (HDCW125) – 6 credit points
- Children and Young People at Risk (HDCW126) – 6 credit points
- Case Management in Community Services (HDCW213) – 6 credit points
- Community Services Fieldwork 1 (HLTH201) – 6 credit points
- Community Services Fieldwork 2 (HLTH301) – 12 credit points
- Working with Aboriginal People (OORA200) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete the following:
All students MUST complete the Psychological Health and Wellbeing Minor totalling 24 credit points;
and
ONE Approved Major totalling 48 credit points and Elective Units totalling 12 credit points;
or
ONE Approved Minor totalling 24 credit points and Elective Units totalling 36 credit points;
or
Elective Units totalling 60 credit points.
24 credit points
Complete the following units:- Victimology (CRIM107) – 6 credit points
- Drugs, Alcohol and Society (CRIM208) – 6 credit points
- Criminological Perspectives (CRIM345) – 6 credit points
- Working with Offenders (CRIM305) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete the following units:- Health Psychology (PSYC304) – 6 credit points
- Motivation and Emotion (PSYC307) – 6 credit points
- Sport and Exercise Psychology (PSYC308) – 6 credit points
- Behaviour Modification: Learning Principles Applied (PSYC314) – 6 credit points
Complete a maximum of 60 credit points as follows:
Elective Units can be selected from any unit offered by the University, subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units. These units can include other Psychology units which candidates have not completed as a Core or Listed Unit.
72 credit points
For candidates admitted under Rule B60 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introductory Psychology I (PSYC101) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Psychology II (PSYC102) – 6 credit points
- Social Psychology (PSYC200) – 6 credit points
- Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC202) – 6 credit points
- Cognitive Psychology (PSYC206) – 6 credit points
- Lifespan Developmental Psychology (PSYC213) – 6 credit points
- Psychopathology (PSYC363) – 6 credit points
- Biopsychology (PSYC366) – 6 credit points
- Individual Differences and Assessment (PSYC371) – 6 credit points
- Advanced Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC372) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Health Psychology (PSYC304) – 6 credit points
- Organisational Psychology (PSYC306) – 6 credit points
- Motivation and Emotion (PSYC307) – 6 credit points
- Sport and Exercise Psychology (PSYC308) – 6 credit points
- Cognitive Affective and Social Neuroscience (PSYC309) – 6 credit points
- Behaviour Modification: Learning Principles Applied (PSYC314) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Psychology (PSYC315) – 6 credit points
See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
Understanding Your Course Fees
Your total course fees are based on the number of units you complete, not the length of time you study. This gives you flexibility to tailor your study journey to suit your circumstances.
Here's how it works:
- Unit-based pricing - Each unit has its own fee. Visit our Fees and Costs section for detailed unit pricing information
- Advanced standing - If you're eligible for credit for previous study, you'll complete fewer units and pay less overall
- Study pace - Choose part-time or full-time study to fit your schedule without affecting unit costs
- Trimester 3 option - Students who choose to accelerate their progress by studying during Trimester 3 can do so without increasing overall costs
The table below shows estimated fees for a typical full-time year of study (48 credit points which typically equates to 8 units)
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| International | $34,176* |
| Commonwealth Supported Place | $9,504* |
| Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $373 |
* Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2025. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
The Graduate Careers Council of Australia reports a strong demand in Australia for people with psychology qualifications. Many careers are enhanced by a knowledge of psychological principles, for example those that require you to interact with other people or provide services and care for others.
The research and data analysis skills that you will develop as part of the course are also highly valued in the workplace. You will graduate with a strong foundation for further postgraduate study in psychology, and in many other fields, including counselling and education.
Some of the career opportunities that you could consider include:
- learning support worker
- market research
- family services and support work
- youth justice or youth support work
- human resources
- management roles in health and social care.
UNE’s Bachelor of Psychological Science provides you with a three-year undergraduate psychology sequence, accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
After successfully completing the course, you may be eligible to apply for entry to an APAC accredited fourth-year program in psychology such as the Bachelor of Psychology with Honours at UNE, or at another Australian university. A fourth year in psychology is a necessary step if you wish to undertake further training towards working as a psychologist or undertake further (research) study in psychology, including the Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy.
Course outcomes
- demonstrate coherent theoretical and empirical knowledge of the core topics of Psychology, including: history and philosophy of psychology, motivation and emotion, psychological health and well-being, social psychology, neuroscience and the biological bases of behaviour, cognition, language and perception, individual differences in personality, intelligence and behaviour, learning and memory, lifespan development, and psychopathology and evidence-based interventions; and apply this knowledge in a manner that is reflexive, culturally appropriate and sensitive to the diversity of individuals;
- describe, apply and evaluate different research methods used by psychologists and demonstrate practical skills in psychological research design, data analysis, and report writing using American Psychological Association (APA) structure and formatting conventions;
- critically evaluate psychological literature, question claims that arise from untested assumptions, recognise the link between theory and practical application of that theory in the world, and communicate these in written and oral formats;
- demonstrate interpersonal skills and teamwork;
- demonstrate an understanding of appropriate values and ethics in psychology; and
- demonstrate self-directed learning to sustain life-long personal and professional development in the changing world of the science and practice of psychology.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Graduates will possess a body of knowledge in psychology through the study of the core units. Specialisation is then provided through a range of listed units at 300-level psychology, plus additional opportunity for studying in cognate disciplines in any area of the university (elective units). This knowledge will be taught in lectures, unit materials and online activities and will be assessed throughout the course with a range of different activities. Information provided within each unit embeds current global knowledge within the discipline of psychology.
- Communication Skills
Graduates will have well developed communication skills which are taught, assessed and practised through written assignments and face-to-face (or online equivalent) tutorial and laboratory sessions that are required in all psychology units (both core and listed).
- Problem Solving
Most of the post-100 level psychology units include data collection in order to address an issue in the literature. The onus is then on the student to generate a research report providing a solution to that issue.
- Information Literacy
Through the writing of essays and research reports graduates will develop the skills with which to discover and process relevant information and to present it in a coherent fashion.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Graduates will be taught to understand and practise the highest standards of ethical behaviour associated with the discipline. They will understand and be open-minded about social, cultural and linguistic diversity in Australia and the world, and appreciate their ethical responsibilities towards colleagues, research subjects, the wider community and the environment. The issue of ethics is explicitly integrated during data collection and a range of other activities within psychology units.
- Lifelong Learning
All psychology units within this course develop the student's skills in identifying and accessing information that is relevant to their needs, through both library searches and the internet. This skill empowers graduates to continue accessing new information as required.
- Independence and Collaboration
Graduates will have well developed group participation skills and the ability to work collaboratively achieved through on-campus and online interactive teaching strategies, where they will learn the importance of participating in discussions in a professional, respectful and ethical manner.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026 Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026 Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate) Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025 Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
Stay connected
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- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
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- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
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Why study with us?
I chose UNE as it offered online study, with a focus on flexibility and, it is my home institution.
Why study with us?
This was the best experience ever! I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to study at UNE.
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
| Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | 24 February 2026 | 23 February 2026 |
| Trimester 2 | 23 June 2026 | 22 June 2026 |
| Trimester 3 | 9 October 2026 | 19 October 2026 |
