Professional psychologists work in a wide variety of different contexts. As well as the clinical domain that people most associate with the practice of Psychology, psychologists also work in legal, educational and organisational settings in both the public and private sector. The initial preparation to work as a professional psychologist in any of these contexts is an undergraduate degree that provides accredited programs in the basic discipline of Psychology. Specialist training in different professional areas is then provided in postgraduate degrees.

Career options in Psychology

A qualification in Psychology may lead to careers in a variety of applied fields as well as teaching and research. Psychologists work in areas such as:

Clinical Psychology: prevention, diagnosis and treatment of serious psychological problems. To practice as clinicians, psychologists must have completed an accredited 5th and 6th year Clinical Masters degree.

Organisational Psychology: work in public, commercial and industrial settings which aims to increase productivity and well-being. Tasks may include job analysis, selection, career planning, training, ergonomic and task design and organisational development.

Forensic Psychology: work in settings associated with the legal system such as police, courts, prisons, guardianship and child protection.

Clinical Neuropsychology: a specialisation of clinical psychology involving diagnosis and rehabilitation of people affected by brain damage.

Developmental Disability: planning, implementing and evaluating programs for individuals with various disabilities.

Counselling Psychology: helping adults, children and families to explore and resolve problems in everyday living.

Educational Psychology: helping teachers, parents and students to maximise their learning in educational environments.

Teaching: psychologists teach the subject matter in traditional Psychology departments in universities as well as in various other programs in tertiary institutions.

Research: psychologists carry out research to gain new knowledge and to apply existing knowledge, in Universities and in other research contexts such as hospitals, government departments and health services.

Other fields: including media psychology, sports psychology, community psychology and work in the advertising and marketing fields.