Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)

The Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) is the highest qualification in clinical psychology, designed for graduates of a four-year accredited psychology program. This program integrates supervised research, which forms the majority of the degree, with professional training and supervised clinical placements. It aims to advance knowledge in the field and improve the treatment of mental illness. The structured learning and supervised practice components meet the requirements for general registration as a psychologist in Australia and prepare students for advanced registrar programs leading to specialization in clinical psychology. Students will undertake a PhD thesis under expert supervision, with flexibility in balancing coursework, clinical placements, and research activities. While coursework is typically concentrated in the earlier years, research is a sustained focus throughout the program. Teaching methods include lectures, workshops, skills training, online learning, and supervised work-based practicums, conducted both at the university's Northfields Psychology Clinic and external sites.