Studying psychology is more than just earning a degree; it's about unlocking the mysteries of the human mind and making a real difference in people's lives. For students dreaming of a global career in mental health, Australia has emerged as one of the most promising destinations, offering world-ranked universities, hands-on learning, and pathways that open doors far beyond the classroom. But with so many options available, how do you decide which university is truly the best fit for you?
Here, we'll explore the Best Universities for Psychology in Australia, along with the courses they offer, fees, admission process, exams, career opportunities, and even part-time job options, so that you can step into this exciting journey with clarity and confidence.
Why Choose Psychology in Australia?
Studying psychology in Australia offers globally recognised degrees accredited by APAC, with the best universities for psychology in Australia ranked among the world's top 100. Students can pursue everything from a Bachelor of Psychology in Australia for international students to specialised master's in clinical psychology in Australia, backed by strong research and hands-on training. With a growing demand for psychologists, competitive fees, scholarships, and part-time work options, Australia provides both quality education and excellent career prospects for international students.
Best Universities for Psychology in Australia
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is ranked among the world's top 50 and is considered the best university for psychology in Australia. It offers world-class teaching, cutting-edge research opportunities, and practical training through internships and industry projects. Students graduate with globally recognised qualifications.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Psychology (Clinical, Educational, Organisational), PhD programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 45,000–50,000 per year.
University of Sydney
The University of Sydney provides one of the most established psychology schools in the country. With a strong focus on clinical psychology and neuroscience, students gain early exposure to research and practical training. Its graduates are highly sought after in the health and academic sectors.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, and research degrees.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 46,000 per year.
University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland ranks in the global top 100 for psychology and is known for combining research excellence with applied practice. Students benefit from strong partnerships with hospitals and mental health institutions, ensuring real-world experience during study.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychological Science, Master of Psychology (Clinical, Counselling, Health), PhD programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 44,000–48,000 per year.
Monash University
Monash University is internationally recognised and offers psychology programs across multiple campuses, including Malaysia. Its programs prepare students with flexible career pathways and strong global connections. Students gain hands-on experience through placements and research projects.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Professional Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, and doctoral research programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 45,000–49,000 per year.
Australian National University (ANU)
The Australian National University provides a research-driven psychology education, with an emphasis on critical thinking, neuroscience, and mental health. It is one of the best universities in Australia for psychology with an international reputation for excellence.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, research degrees (MPhil, PhD).
- Fees: Approx. AUD 47,000 per year.
UNSW Sydney
UNSW Sydney is globally recognised for its strong psychology research, particularly in cognitive, clinical, and social psychology. Students benefit from modern labs and clinical placements, preparing them for both academic and professional careers.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Psychology (Clinical, Forensic, Organisational), PhD programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 46,000–49,000 per year.
University of Western Australia (UWA)
The University of Western Australia provides innovative programs in psychology with a strong emphasis on applied psychology and research. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and state-of-the-art research centres.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Psychology (Clinical, Industrial and Organisational), PhD programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 42,000–46,000 per year.
Macquarie University
Macquarie University is known for its excellence in cognitive science and behavioural studies. It offers a practical, research-informed psychology education and is a popular choice for international students due to its supportive learning environment.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Clinical Neuropsychology, Master of Organisational Psychology, and PhD programs.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 40,000–45,000 per year.
University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide offers modern facilities and a focus on research-based and applied psychology training. Students benefit from exposure to clinical practice and a supportive international student community.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychological Science, Master of Psychology (Clinical), and research degrees.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 42,000–44,000 per year.
Griffith University
Griffith University is an affordable yet quality option for international students. Known for career-focused teaching, its psychology programs blend theory with hands-on learning, preparing students for a wide range of professional pathways.
- Courses Offered: Bachelor of Psychology, Master of Professional Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, and research degrees.
- Fees: Approx. AUD 38,000–42,000 per year.
Psychology Courses Offered in Australia
Australia provides a complete pathway for students who want to build a career in psychology, starting from undergraduate study and progressing to advanced professional and research degrees. Each level is carefully designed to combine theory, research, and hands-on practice.
Undergraduate Programs
If you're just beginning, undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) or Bachelor of Psychological Science give you a strong foundation in human behaviour, mental processes, and research methods. These programs usually run for 3–4 years and are popular among international students studying psychology in Australia.
Postgraduate Programs
For those aiming for a professional career, a master's in psychology in Australia offers specialised training. Students can choose from areas such as Clinical Psychology, Organisational Psychology, or Educational Psychology. The master's in clinical psychology in Australia is especially well-regarded, preparing graduates for registration as professional psychologists. Most master's programs take about 2 years.
Doctoral & Research Degrees
At the highest level, students can pursue a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) for advanced clinical practice or opt for PhD/MPhil programs in psychology to focus on academic and research careers. These usually span 3–4 years and provide opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge global research.
Why These Courses Matter?
All programs are accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), ensuring global recognition. This means that whether you choose a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral pathway, your degree from the best universities in Australia for psychology is valued worldwide and opens doors to both professional practice and research opportunities.
Fees Structure for Psychology in Australia
Studying psychology in Australia can be an investment, but the costs vary depending on the program level and university. Here's what international students can expect:
Undergraduate Programs
A Bachelor of Psychology in Australia for international students typically costs between AUD 38,000 and AUD 46,000 per year. Universities like Griffith and Macquarie are on the more affordable end, while the top universities in Australia for psychology, such as Melbourne and Sydney, are on the higher end.
Postgraduate Programs
The cost of a master's in psychology in Australia generally ranges from AUD 42,000 to AUD 50,000 per year. Specialised programs such as the master's in clinical psychology in Australia may be more expensive due to intensive clinical training and placements.
Doctoral & Research Degrees
For advanced students, PhD and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs cost about AUD 40,000–47,000 per year. Many universities, however, offer partial or full research scholarships, which can significantly reduce the financial burden.
Living Costs
In addition to tuition, students should budget around AUD 21,000–24,000 per year for living expenses, including accommodation, food, travel, and health insurance.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
To support international students, most psychology universities in Australia provide scholarships based on merit or financial need. These can reduce fees by 15–30%, with top awards covering tuition fully for high-achieving students.
Admission & Registration Process for Psychology in Australia
Applying to study psychology in Australia is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Here's a clear roadmap for international students aiming for a Bachelor of Psychology in Australia or a master's in psychology in Australia:
- Choose Your Course & University
- Decide whether you want to pursue an undergraduate psychology degree (3–4 years) or a postgraduate/master's in psychology in Australia (2 years).
- Research the best universities in Australia for psychology and shortlist based on fees, specialisations (like clinical psychology), and career goals.
- Check Eligibility Requirements
- Bachelor Programs: Completion of Class 12 (with a science or social science background preferred).
- Master's Programs: A recognised bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field.
- Most programs require a minimum GPA or academic percentage.
- English Language Proficiency
International students must prove English skills through exams such as:
- IELTS: Overall, 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: 79–94
- PTE Academic: 58–65+
- (Some universities may accept equivalent scores in Duolingo or Cambridge English.)
- Application Process
- Apply directly through the university's official portal or via agents/partners.
- Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV (for master's), and reference letters.
- Pay the application fee (usually AUD 100–150).
- Receive Offer Letter
- If selected, you'll receive either a conditional offer (pending final documents) or an unconditional offer.
- Accept the offer by paying a deposit (part of your tuition).
- Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)
- Use your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university.
- Provide proof of funds, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and necessary documents.
- Visa allows up to 48 hours per fortnight of part-time work during study.
- Enrol & Begin Classes
- Complete final registration after arriving in Australia.
- Attend orientation sessions for international students.
Entrance Exams & Requirements for Psychology in Australia
- English Tests: IELTS 6.5–7.0, TOEFL iBT 79–94, or PTE Academic 58–65+. Some universities also accept Duolingo or Cambridge English.
- Academic Eligibility: For a Bachelor of Psychology in Australia for international students, completion of Class 12 is required. For a master's in psychology in Australia, a psychology-related bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 65–70% is needed.
- Other Requirements: Some of the best universities may ask for prior coursework in statistics/research methods. GRE is rarely required, but can strengthen applications.
- Documents Needed: SOP, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and CV (for postgraduate).
Career Opportunities After Psychology in Australia
Graduates from the best universities in Australia for psychology have strong career prospects thanks to the growing demand for mental health professionals. Average salaries for psychologists in Australia range from AUD 75,000 to 120,000 per year, with higher pay for those holding a master's in clinical psychology. Importantly, psychology is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), giving international graduates a strong pathway to permanent residency. Depending on your qualification, you can explore roles such as:
- Clinical Psychologist –They will be working in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.
- Organisational Psychologist – You can excel in this by applying psychology in workplaces and corporate settings.
- Educational/School Psychologist – By supporting learning and student wellbeing.
- Counsellor or Mental Health Practitioner – This will lead you to a community or health services role.
- Researcher/Academic – Here, you will be contributing to psychology research and teaching.
Part-Time Job Options for Psychology Students in Australia
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and full-time in breaks. Common options include on-campus roles (library or research assistant), retail and hospitality jobs, or volunteering in mental health organisations. Average pay is AUD 22–28 per hour, helping students cover living costs while gaining useful experience.
Conclusion
Studying psychology in Australia opens doors to world-class education, hands-on training, and rewarding career opportunities. With the best universities for psychology in Australia offering globally accredited degrees, flexible courses, and strong pathways to work or residency, students can build a future that's both meaningful and successful.
Whether you choose a bachelor's or a master's in psychology in Australia, you'll gain skills that are valued worldwide and be part of a growing field where demand for professionals has never been higher.
