What ATAR do you need to study Psychology?
The ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) is an important factor in gaining entry to university courses in Australia. It is indicative of a student’s academic performance in high school and determines their eligibility when it comes to various uni programs.
To study psychology, your ATAR will depend on the university you apply to and the competitiveness of the program. Generally, an ATAR between 75 to 90 is needed for most psychology undergraduate programs, though higher ranking universities may require a better ATAR. Some unis may also offer alternative pathways for students who don't meet the ATAR requirements. These include bridging courses, special entry schemes, or consideration of other criteria like work experience or a portfolio. Make sure to consult with your school’s career advisor for any further information regarding the latter.
Psychology Undergraduate Options
To become a psychologist, there are certain criteria which need to be met. Typically one needs a Bachelor of Psychology or a Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts with a major in psychology. These undergraduate courses usually take three years to complete, and they equip students with the knowledge and understanding of human behavior, mental health, and psychological theory.
What Senior Subjects Should I Choose?
If your aim is to study Psychology, choosing the right senior subjects can help you lay the foundation for your future studies. While there are no prerequisites to be eligible for a psychology course, some subjects can be beneficial for developing the skills you will need throughout your degree.
The ATAR required for entry into psychology programs varies by university, but a strong ATAR between 75 and 90 is generally needed. Choosing the right subjects in high school can help prepare you for your studies.
For example:
- English: English is a compulsory subject in Australia and is essential for developing your reading, writing, and communication skills. Psychology requires a strong ability to interpret research articles and write essays or reports.
- Biology: Understanding biological processes, the nervous system, and how they relate to human behavior is fundamental in psychology. Biology will help you comprehend the neuroscience and physiological aspects of psychology.
- Mathematics: While not always mandatory, studying maths can be helpful. Psychology degrees often require statistical analysis of data. Therefore, research can be made easier when understanding mathematical principles.
Remember that although choosing the above subjects may be advantageous, they are not always mandatory for getting into a psychology degree. The ATAR you achieve will be the primary determinant of your eligibility.
Demand for Psychologists in Australia?
Psychology is a field that has grown in importance over the years, and as the demand for mental health services and awareness continues to rise, the need for qualified psychologists in Australia is increasing.
- Recently, there has been an increased recognition of the importance of mental health. More people are open to seeking mental health services to deal with issues including anxiety, depression and stress. This progress in societal attitudes has created greater demand for psychologists (particularly in clinical, counseling, and educational psychology fields).
- In Australia, there is a reported shortage of psychologists, especially when it comes to rural or remote areas. According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook data, employment for psychologists is expected to grow strongly over the next five years. There will be many opportunities for new psychologists across a range of settings, including private practice, hospitals, schools, community health services, and corporate environments.
- While the demand is high, it is important to note that becoming a psychologist involves years of education and training beyond the undergraduate level. Upon graduating with a Bachelor’s degree, aspiring psychologists must also complete postgraduate study and supervised practice to become fully registered. This means that undertaking a Master’s degree or a Doctorate in psychology and undergoing a period of supervised work experience will increase your chances of employment.
Career Prospects
In Australia, psychology is a promising and rewarding field, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics reporting consistent job growth in the mental health sector.
In Particular, psychologists can find work in various specialisations including:
- Clinical psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Educational psychology
- Organisational psychology
The increasing awareness of mental health issues and the expanding focus on wellbeing in society mean that psychologists can expect a rewarding career with many opportunities for growth.
Given the increasing demand for psychologists, a career in this field offers promising job prospects and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities. If you are committed to follow this path, your hard work and dedication will be well worth the effort!
Want to discuss the next step? Reach out to Concept at https://www.concepteducation.com.au/enquire or email us at admin@concepteducation.com.au - we're always happy to help!
