Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) - 2019

This course aims to increase students' understanding of theoretical and methodological aspects of research, to develop their analytic, research and communication skills, and to provide them with advanced knowledge in specific areas of the science and practice of psychology. In this course students must complete coursework components designed to expand their knowledge of statistics and the ethics of psychological research and practice, and broaden their understanding of the discipline. Students also undertake a supervised research project which aims to provide training in both discipline-specific and generic research skills. The research project forms the basis of a literature review and research paper presented at the end of the course.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 8 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 8 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:

1. extend existing knowledge of core discipline areas of psychology and demonstrate advanced knowledge in a focussed aspect of the discipline
2. integrate scientifically derived knowledge in the field of psychology with the practice of psychology and create new solutions to contemporary issues in the field
3. critically appraise the role of ethical standards and legislative frameworks in guiding research and practice in psychology and maintaining the integrity of the profession
4. work independently to undertake a scientific literature review and work collaboratively to design, develop and implement a research project
5. collect, organise, analyse and interpret data meaningfully using an appropriate research method
6. communicate ideas and results effectively to diverse audiences and in a variety of formats
7. exercise personal, professional and social responsibility as a global citizen.

Monash University is seeking accreditation for this course by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council to meet the requirements of the Australian Psychological Society for Associate Membership.

To be eligible for provisional registration as a psychologist in Australia you must meet the requirements of the Psychology Board of Australia. The first step to becoming a psychologist is to complete four years of approved study in psychology. This normally comprises a bachelor degree (or graduate diploma) that includes the three-year Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) accredited sequence of 10 units in psychology, followed by an accredited fourth year course in psychology. The Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) will provide the fourth year of study.

In order to be eligible for general registration as a psychologist, a further minimum two years of approved study must be undertaken at master's or doctoral level or alternatively two years of supervised practice.

This course consists of a combination of coursework and research. You will develop advanced theoretical knowledge and research methodologies appropriate to your area of focus and plan and execute a research project under the individual guidance of an academic supervisor.

This course comprises 48 points: Part A. Research (24 points) and Part B. Coursework (24 points).

Units are 6 points unless otherwise indicated.

Part A. Research (24 points)

You must complete:

• PSY4100 Psychological honours: Research project (24 points)
• PSY4000 Final honours psychology grade (0 points)

Part B. Coursework (24 points)

You must complete:

• PSY4210 Statistics and research design for professional psychology
• PSY4220 Ethics, legal and professional issues in psychology
• PSY4270 Psychological assessment and intervention

You must complete one of the following:

• PSY4110 Psychology in society
• PSY4120 Mental health and illness
• PSY4130 Developmental psychology and clinical neuroscience

Successful completion of this course may provide a pathway to a Monash master's by coursework, and if admitted you may be eligible for credit.

Successful completion of this course may also provide a pathway to a higher degree by research.