The Best Psychology Universities In Melbourne

Psychology is a profound and fascinating field of study that concerns itself with the science of the human mind – in particular, how we perceive and react to certain situations. With 1 in 5 Australian adults (that’s 4 million people!) suffering from some form of mental illness or stress, it’s never been more important to have highly trained, skilled psychologists in the workforce. But where to study psychology in Australia? More specifically, if you’re looking to study in Melbourne, which universities carry the best reputation and can guarantee you the finest education in the country – even the world? 

Here’s our top picks for the best psychology universities in Melbourne. 

1. The University of Melbourne (UniMelb)

Ranked #17 in the world and #1 in Australia for psychology, the University of Melbourne offers world-class education starting with a Bachelor of Psychology; with further study with a master’s degree, you will be well on your way to becoming an accredited psychologist. With its high graduate employability, a near-flawless academic reputation, and ample opportunities for both local and international students, the University of Melbourne is easily the best psychology university in Melbourne.

There’s plenty on the curriculum when it comes to UniMelb’s psychology degrees. In general, you’ll learn about aspects of behaviour such as human motivation and emotion, decision-making processes and social interaction. You’ll also study areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and sensation and perception. Core and elective subjects allow you to dive even deeper into psychology by studying areas such as the unconscious mind, neuroscience, perception, memory and cognition. After progressing to honours and graduating from a master’s degree, you’ll become a qualified psychologist.

2. Monash University

Among the world’s top 100 universities for psychology studies and ranked 7th in Australia for psychology students, Monash University will allow you to explore your understanding of human cognition and behaviour starting with a Bachelor of Psychology. With lectures led by researchers at the top of their field, one of the best psychology universities in Melbourne is certainly Monash, putting you at the forefront of new discoveries in cognitive neuroscience and clinical psychology. Core units are accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). At Monash University, you’ll develop a broad knowledge of psychology plus a deeper understanding of specific areas, including:

• Addiction and mental health
• Sleep and circadian rhythms
• Brain injury and rehabilitation
• Neurodevelopment
• Psychopathology
• Ageing and neurodegeneration.

Monash University also gives you a chance to put your research and skills into practice with internship opportunities in a range of settings including clinical, community, and research. You can also choose to take part in supervised research projects, giving you first-hand experience as you learn. Graduates from Monash University have gone on to work in recruitment, HR, public relations, child protection and youth work, and much more. With additional study, you can progress to a career in clinical or professional psychology.

3. Swinburne University Of Technology

Don’t let the “technology” in this university’s name fool you: Swinburne University of Technology is one of the best psychology universities in Melbourne. Like the other universities on our list, Swinburne’s program is APAC accredited, with the initial four years of studying laying the foundation for clinical practice in the field of psychology.

While studying psychological processes and human behaviour, students at Swinburne are also exposed to extensive research projects in order to hone their practical skills and theoretical knowledge. By the time of graduation, students will have the skills to further their careers in psychology, forensic behavioural science, community services and much more.

Renowned for its teaching quality, Swinburne students also have access to the largest psychology clinic in Australia. Available to students undertaking postgraduate studies in clinical psychology or counselling, the clinic allows students to gain valuable experience, training and skills needed to work independently as a psychologist. Lastly, Swinburne has claimed the #1 spot in Victoria for graduate starting salary.

4. La Trobe University

Another of the best psychology universities in Melbourne, La Trobe University’s courses focus on real world skills – teamwork, oral presentation, computer and data analysis, critical thinking and much more – to lay the foundations for a career in psychology. According to the 2021 Good Universities Guide, La Trobe’s postgrad psychology programs are ranked amongst the best in the country in terms of skill development, learner engagement, teaching quality, and overall educational experience. Core subjects and electives covered at La Trobe during psychology studies include:

• Experimental and clinical foundations of psychology
• Developmental, social and abnormal psychology
• Cognition
• Psychological research methods, assessment and intervention
• Research projects
• Behavioural neuroscience
• Neuropsychology
• Psychology of human-animal relationships
• Neural bases of consciousness
• Psychology of culture, communities and global citizenship
• Understanding and treating autism spectrum disorders.

Field placements are also offered in order for students to observe and engage in real work activities in a workplace environment. Placements are offered within offices such as child protection services, disability services, welfare services and health workforce planning.

We hope that this guide to the best psychology universities in Melbourne has been helpful for you! If you’re looking for more information on Melbourne, why not discover how much it costs to live in Melbourne as a student, or find out more about Melbourne student life.