Course overview
In Australia, you’ll need to complete six years of education and training to practise as a registered psychologist – four years at undergraduate level and two at postgraduate level
This master degree is the sixth and final year of your study. It provides specialist knowledge in clinical psychology – one of the nine areas of practice approved by the Psychology Board of Australia.
Clinical psychologists assess psychological disorders in individuals, groups and families, and administer programs of treatment. In this course, you’ll build an advanced understanding of mental health and physical health, as well as develop your clinical skills by putting theory into practice.
You’ll examine complex psychological disorders in adults, children and youth, including their cause, assessment, diagnosis and treatment. You’ll also develop your professional skills in navigating ethical and professional challenges, working with the public and managing conflict.
Over two 50-day clinical placements, you’ll build and apply your skills in a real-world setting, practising core clinical skills such as assessment, case conceptualisation and treatment under the supervision of a registered clinical psychologist.
You’ll also undertake an independent research project, planning and conducting research, analysing your data and completing a dissertation.
When you graduate, you can apply to complete a registrar program to gain endorsement as a clinical psychologist within Australia.
Note that the application deadline for this course is earlier than for most postgraduate courses. See the application deadlines page for details.
This can be a physically and mentally challenging course. Please familiarise yourself with the inherent requirements before applying.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Psychologist
With endorsement
- Clinical psychologist¹
Industries
- Clinical and mental health services
- Education and training
- Social assistance
¹ To work as a clinical psychologist in Australia, you’ll need to gain endorsement by completing a registrar program after graduating from this course.
Professional accreditation and recognition
This course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Council (APAC).
Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a psychologist within Australia.
Why study at Curtin?
Gain advanced expertise
Build expertise in complex psychological conditions impacting adults, children and youth.
Pathway towards endorsement
Apply to complete a registrar program after you graduate to gain endorsement as a clinical psychologist within Australia.
Real-world clinical training
Apply your skills in a real-world setting through two 50-day clinical placements under the supervision of a registered clinical psychologist.
Your student experience
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Develop real-world experience before you graduate. Learn how work-integrated learning helps you build career skills and connect with industry early.
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Find your entry pathway to Curtin
You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Entry requirements
You must have completed an APAC Level 3 professional competencies qualification (typically achieved through the Master of Psychology (Professional)), or be a registered psychologist who previously completed the APAC-accredited 4 + 2 pathway with evidence of Level 3 competencies. If you apply via the 4 + 2 pathway, you will require a minimum of 12 months of registration with AHPRA without conditions. Entry is competitive and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.
Assured Pathway (Master of Psychology (Professional) to MC-CLIPS)
A limited number of top-ranked applicants admitted to the Master of Psychology (Professional) may be offered a conditional assured pathway to the Master of Clinical Psychology for the following year. Progression is dependent on meeting course progression requirements, such as maintaining the required course average. Students complete the full MC-CLIPS program; this is not a Credit for Recognised Learning arrangement.
You will be required to provide supplementary information with your application. Please refer to the application requirements below.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Additional information
Application Requirements
Please refer to our application requirements before applying for this Curtin course.
Notes about this course
Make sure you check the course notes for any other important information.
Ranking selection process
- Applicants will be ranked and selected based on published entry requirements and entire academic record.
- Applicants must provide all required documents and be assessed as eligible to be included in the ranking for an offer.
- Meeting the minimum entry requirements and course specific prerequisites, does not guarantee selection.
- In the event the course reaches capacity the University reserves the right not to proceed with subsequent offer rounds.
Fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
Commonwealth-supported first-year fee
$4,800*
Domestic fee-paying first-year fee
$39,280*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 credit points. Your fees will vary depending on the units you choose.
- This indicative fee does not include other fees like administrative and incidental fees (such as lab coats or art supplies) or the cost of your textbooks. Visit other fees and charges for more information.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Your application pathway
To apply for this course, you’ll apply directly to Curtin via our online applications portal.
Choose your preferred campus to find the application opening and closing dates for this course before you apply.
Select your preferred campus
| Intake | Applications open | Applications close |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Extended Term 1A, 2027 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 1, 2027 | 1 May 2026 | Applications now closed |
Location and delivery
Thinking about starting soon? Course availability can vary by location and study period. Check the course handbook for details on when and where you can start your studies.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.