Key facts
UNE unit code: PSYC371
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

Individual differences in personality, intelligence, abilities, behaviour, and psychological health and wellbeing have long fascinated people.
This unit offers you an in-depth understanding of individual differences, building skills and knowledge relevant to a variety of psychological assessment contexts.
Delving into the historical, theoretical and applied aspects of psychological testing and assessment, you will learn about test development, reliability and validity. You will also explore important cultural and ethical considerations applicable to psychological practice and research.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
SPSS software is required.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate coherent knowledge of individual differences in personality, cognitive abilities and human behaviour, including historical, theoretical, and practical issues associated with their measurement and assessment;
- evaluate and apply judgement to the administration, scoring, interpretation, and reporting of psychological tests across a range of applied settings;
- demonstrate knowledge of the main legal, ethical and cultural issues associated with psychological testing and assessment;
- demonstrate data analysis, self-directed research, critical analysis of theory and research and research report writing skills appropriate to the study and practice of psychology; and
- demonstrate the ability to review, critically analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge and apply it with judgement and intellectual independence in identifying, evaluating and solving problems.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 - Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | No. Words: 500 |
| Assessment 2 - Research Report | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: 2800 |
| Assessment 3 - Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 60% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. No. Words: 2500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Psychological Testing and Assessment
ISBN: 9781265799731
Cohen, Schneider & Swerdlik., McGraw-Hill Education 10th Ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Writing for Psychology
ISBN: 9780170441124
O'Shea & Mc Kenzie, Cengage 7th Edition 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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 2007-2026Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026Five 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
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.