2015 PSYCHOLOGY
LIFE AT UWS
Why Study Psychology at UWS?
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Degrees of success The Academy Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking Bachelor of Psychology Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
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Double Degrees Bachelor of Psychology/Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking Bachelor of Arts (Key program Psychology)/Bachelor of Laws
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Applicant checklist Providing Support through Scholarships
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PSYCHOLOGY 2015
CONTENTS
WHY STUDY PSYCHOLOGY AT UWS?
MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD To study psychology is to study our most powerful tool, the human mind, and to understand how we perceive and make sense of the world. Psychology helps us more accurately position the individual within the collective. It displaces assumptions, misconceptions or popular opinions and installs evidencebased knowledge. What drives us? What stifles us? Psychology aims to make sense of who we really are.
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UWS Psychology 2015
PREPARE FOR A BROAD RANGE OF CAREERS If you are fascinated by the human psyche and excited by the prospects of positively impacting human health, work, education, relationships and family life, consider UWS Psychology. A UWS Psychology degree opens doors to numerous specialist psychology careers and various non-psychology roles, including clinical psychology, forensic psychology, policy development, human resource consultancy, vocational assessment, juvenile justice, family and community services, and youth work. BLENDED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Led by internationally recognised psychology academics and practitioners, the University of Western Sydney’s Psychology program combines biological, cognitive, neurological, social, developmental and personality theories in a blended learning environment. This is complemented by research expertise and a solid grounding in foundations for later practical experience during postgraduate programs.
GAIN FULL ACCREDITATION UWS Psychology degrees are fully accredited and provide clear pathways from an undergraduate level to a professional career in psychology. They offer professional recognition, industrybased projects and placements (at the postgraduate level), broad unit choices, full-time or part-time study, exciting career options, a balance of theory and practical applications, local and international work experience opportunities, research projects and scholarships.
RESEARCH THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE The research profile of UWS is the success factor that attracts students to psychology. UWS has a distinctive, high-impact research culture committed to enhancing our region’s cultural, economic, environmental and educational development. Our reputation for research excellence has placed us in the Australian Research Council’s (ARC) funding top 20, underlining our position among the best research institutions in the country.
APPLE IPAD INITIATIVE We understand that technology is vital in today’s world and that is why, in 2015, UWS will provide all new commencing undergraduate students* with an Apple iPad which will enable them to engage in learning anytime, anywhere. (*terms and conditions apply).
ENJOY A GREAT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Each UWS campus is directly linked to the Greater Western Sydney community and reflects the cultural diversity, energy and growth of the region. Facilities include libraries, gyms, computer laboratories, wireless internet, cafes, bars, tennis courts, swimming pools and open space. The Psychology degrees are offered on our dynamic Bankstown and Penrith campuses.
GAIN FURTHER PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE UWS has a range of professional practices operating under the UWS Psychology Clinic, which is a centre for postgraduate training and research. The clinic provides first-rate teaching and research facilities for students undertaking professional practice training, and is a significant community resource. The Clinic provides behavioural and psychological assessments along with psychotherapy.
THE ACADEMY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN SYDNEY
THE ACADEMY
Students enrolled in an Advanced Degree at UWS also automatically join The Academy. This program sets UWS apart as a cuttingedge institution and provides talented students with unprecedented skills through a premium academic experience, personal academic mentoring, hands-on industry exposure, networking opportunities and engagement with our various communities.
Students of The Academy will participate in exclusive workshops and events, collaborate on projects and initiatives and have support to bring their ideas to life. The students in The Academy will have experiences that will help change their world and shape the future. Explore the opportunities available at theacademy.edu.au
THINK INSIDE THE
‘A’
BACHELOR OF APPLIED LEADERSHIP AND CRITICAL THINKING
The University of Western Sydney will offer a Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking in UWS Summer. This unique degree can be taken in combination with a cross-section of Bachelor degrees, including Psychology. The Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking combines a cross-section of courses with a focus on high-level critical thinking and innovative problem-solving practices. The degree prepares students for challenges and opportunities yet to be imagined, and provides cross-disciplinary practical experience and ethical leadership based on building relationships. The course is designed for today’s leaders who are looking to build a better tomorrow.
COURSE
UAC CODE
LOCATION
DURATION
ATAR
B Psychology/B Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking
727515
Bankstown
5F/8P*
nc
Key: B = Bachelor of; F = Full-time; P= Part-time; nc = New Course. Note: Part-time refers to study load, not to timetabling of evening classes. *Part-time applies only to the B Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking component.
Note: The Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking is not a stand-alone degree. It can only be taken in combination with an existing Bachelor degree. Students enrolled in a degree linked with the Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking will gain entry into The Academy. A minimum ATAR of 80.00 is required for the double degree. For more detailed information about the course structure and units, visit uws.edu.au/courses
1300 897 669 myfuture.uws.edu.au
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BACHELOR OF PSYCHOLOGY
The UWS Bachelor of Psychology degree is your opportunity to understand all the things that influence human behaviour. Topics covered in this degree include: the way the brain works, how we learn, what our emotions are about, how we process information to make decisions, why no two people are the same in the ways they think, feel and act, how we develop across the lifespan, and the broad spectrum of mental health issues that affect our lives. At UWS we strive to give you a thorough grounding in the core areas of psychology so you are equipped for a range of career options after graduation, including going on to become a practising psychologist. You will also learn how to do the research needed to discover more about human behaviour and answer questions about things we don’t yet understand. In addition to the core units you will also have the choice of electives in areas of research excellence.
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UWS Psychology 2015
COURSE B Psychology
UAC CODE
LOCATION
DURATION
ATAR
727500
Bankstown
4F/8P
85.00
727505
Penrith
4F/8P
85.00
Key: B = Bachelor of; F = Full-time; P = Part-time. Note: Part-time refers to study load, not to timetabling of evening classes.
As a four-year degree, the Bachelor of Psychology gives you a thorough scientific understanding of psychology. Importantly, it is strongly vocational, equipping you with the specialist psychological and research skills you will need to enter the workforce as a Provisionally Registered Psychologist or to proceed to advanced study. PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION Completion of the B Psychology will fulfil the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) requirements for a three-year accredited sequence in Psychology. Completion of a fourth year will satisfy the educational requirements for registration as a Provisional Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). A further two years of supervised practice as a Provisional Psychologist is necessary for General Registration. Entry into any fourth year program is competitive, and has a minimum entry standard of a Credit average in second and third year units, including a Credit in the majority of Psychology units.
CORE UNITS AND ELECTIVES To graduate with a Bachelor of Psychology, you will be required to complete 24 units, followed by either a Specialist Psychology year or an Honours year. Some of the core units you may study in this degree include: Brain and Behaviour; Introduction to Logical Thinking; Perception; Cognitive Processes; History and Philosophy of Psychology; and Developmental Psychology. There are eight electives within the first three years of the Bachelor of Psychology. Electives can be chosen from other courses offered by the University of Western Sydney. For detailed information about the course structure and units, visit myfuture.uws.edu.au
INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIAN STUDIES Enrolment in the Indigenous Australian Studies (IAS) major, sub-major or units is available to all UWS undergraduate students who have open electives. Find out more at studyias.com.au FURTHER STUDIES If you meet the requirements, the fourth year of this course is an Honours program involving specialised research. Fourth year students not undertaking the Honours program will study a Specialist Psychology program comprising one core unit in psychological assessment, two electives, research methods, and an empirical research project presented as a thesis.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES As a graduate of the Bachelor of Psychology degree, you will enjoy a range of career possibilities, including roles in: »» psychology or research positions in both government departments and the private sector in clinical, industrial and organisational psychology »» counselling psychology »» vocational psychology »» clinical psychology (with further study) »» disability services »» educational and developmental psychology »» psychology and the law »» media »» human resources »» community psychology »» forensic psychology »» organisational psychology »» sport psychology.
AMELIE NGUYEN Bachelor of Psychology ‘I would tell anyone thinking of coming to university three things. First, try their best in the HSC, second, choose a field of study that they are passionate about and third, choose the best institution that meets their needs. Higher education is very important to a person’s growth and achievement because you are given the opportunity to learn so much in an area you really love. University allows you to discover and embrace your skills and it opens doorways to exciting opportunities.’
1300 897 669 myfuture.uws.edu.au
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BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCE (PSYCHOLOGY)
The Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) combines a broadly based, interdisciplinary social sciences three-year program with an undergraduate accredited sequence in Psychology that is a foundation for anyone wishing to go on to further study to become a psychologist. Psychology uses scientific techniques and methods to understand human cognition, effect and behaviour. This combination provides interdisciplinary and specialist knowledge that will mesh with a broad spectrum of career opportunities. Opportunities to progress to Honours, specialist fourth year programs and postgraduate awards make this degree distinct and attractive. There is a high demand for graduates in the mental health workforce, as well as in related disciplines.
COURSE B Social Science (Psychology)
UAC CODE
LOCATION
DURATION
ATAR
727600
Bankstown
3F/6P
78.00
727605
Penrith
3F/6P
78.00
Key: B = Bachelor of; F = Full-time; P = Part-time. Note: Part-time refers to study load, not to timetabling of evening classes.
PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION Accreditation for this course is currently being sought. FURTHER STUDIES An Honours year is available to highachieving students. Information and details on how to apply for Honours will be provided to you as you progress through your Bachelor degree, or you can find out more at myfuture.uws.edu.au/honours Admission into the fourth year or Honours year is based on performance in second and third year Psychology units. Those who elect to leave after third year, or who do not achieve the requisite grade point average will graduate with a Bachelor of Psychological Studies award. CORE UNITS AND ELECTIVES To graduate with a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology), you will be required to complete 24 units. While the major study is Psychology, required sub-majors include: Child and Community; Criminology and Criminal Justice; Geography and Urban Studies; Heritage and Tourism; Peace and Development Studies; Social Sciences; and Sociology. For detailed information about the course structure and units, visit myfuture.uws.edu.au
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UWS Psychology 2015
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Psychological knowledge and skills are welcomed in many professional destinations. When combined with the social sciences, opportunities are available in the areas of tourism, sociology, peace and development, policing, and counselling in both government and private sectors. The Psychology sequence leads to further study and supervision to achieve registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). Entry to specialist endorsed psychology fields (clinical, health, forensic, community, sports, counselling, educational and developmental psychology) begins with the Psychology sequence offered in the Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology).
BACHELOR OF ARTS (PSYCHOLOGY)
If your interest in psychology is fuelled by a desire to understand its applications across the broad base of human endeavours, you should consider a UWS Bachelor of Arts, with a key program in Psychology. This degree offers a 12-unit accredited Psychology key program. As it is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council, it allows you to go on to apply for postgraduate study in psychology as a first step to becoming a practising psychologist. In addition to covering the core areas in psychology, this course develops your communication and personal skills, as well as your creativity, capacity for independent thought, adaptability to new situations and problem-solving skills. Your key program will be in Psychology, but you can choose your electives from many other degree programs taught across UWS – broadening your abilities in cultural, historical and/or social analysis. Alternatively, some students may have an interest in psychology without wanting to become a psychologist. By completing a Bachelor of Arts with just the eight unit psychological studies major (that is not accredited), you can broaden your knowledge, making possible a wider range of more general career outcomes outside of ‘pure psychology’.
COURSE B Arts (Psychology)
UAC CODE
LOCATION
DURATION
ATAR
720510
Bankstown
3F/6P
65.00
720518
Penrith
3F/6P
65.00
Key: B = Bachelor of; F = Full-time; P = Part-time. Note: Part-time refers to study load, not to timetabling of evening classes.
PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION Completion of a 160-credit point key program in Psychology, which includes a 12-unit Psychology sequence, will fulfil the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) requirements for a three-year accredited sequence in Psychology. Completion of a fourth year will satisfy the educational requirements for registration as a Provisional Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). A further two years of supervised practice as a Provisional Psychologist is necessary for General Registration. Entry into any fourth year program is competitive, and has a minimum entry standard of a Credit average in second and third year units, including a Credit in the majority of Psychology units. CORE UNITS AND ELECTIVES To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), you will be required to complete 24 units. The core units you may study in this degree include: Psychology: Human Behaviour; Psychology: Behavioural Science; Brain and Behaviour; Motivation and Emotion; Perception; and Social Psychology. There are up to eight electives within the Bachelor of Arts (Psychology). The elective component of the degree may be structured around other Arts specialisations, including: International Relations and Asian Studies; Cultural and Social Analysis; English; History and Political Thought; Languages; Education; or Social Ecology. For detailed information about the course structure and units, visit myfuture.uws.edu.au
FURTHER STUDIES With the accredited sequence in Psychology, an additional Honours year is available to high-achieving students. The application and proposal need to be provided to the relevant academic in the final year of your Bachelor degree. Information about Honours options or an alternative path to fourth year via the Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology will be provided to you as you progress through your Bachelor degree, or you can find out more at myfuture.uws.edu.au CAREER OPPORTUNITIES With an accredited Psychology sequence in the Bachelor of Arts, you can pursue many of the same career options made available by the Bachelor of Psychology, including roles in: »» psychology or research positions in both government departments and the private sector in clinical, industrial and organisational psychology »» counselling psychology »» vocational psychology »» clinical psychology (with further study) »» developmental disability »» educational psychology »» psychology and the law »» media »» human resources »» community psychology »» forensic psychology »» sport psychology. The Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) degree also opens doors to careers in fields, such as: »» politics and policy development »» human resource consultancy »» writing and communication »» vocational assessment. 1300 897 669 myfuture.uws.edu.au
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MARK LATHOUWERS Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
RENNY ROCCON Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
‘UWS says it supports students, and it follows through on that statement. There are so many great support opportunities for new, first time students, and things like PASS have been an excellent way to learn with other students. If you come to UWS, you should take advantage of all the support that is on offer. UWS offers great opportunities for engaging in a wide variety of Psychology studies, and it is really helpful to see research in action. The facilities are very good, and the labs are state-of-the-art. Also, everything you need you can find online. The lectures, tutorial notes, past exams, etc, all of them are available, and easy to find.’
‘As a mature age student I found UWS had great resources for me at the time of my enrolment, more so than any other university. The Bankstown campus has great facilities for both academic and social needs and it is constantly improving in all areas from the facilities available to students to the courses available to study. Look at all available options before you choose a university. Studying at the university that suits academically and socially is important in terms of getting through your degree.’
DO YOU WANT TO GO TO UNIVERSITY IN 2015? MAKE IT EASIER WITH THE UWS ADVANTAGE. Applying to study at university can be a big decision. At UWS we’d like to make that decision easier by providing you with a number of entry advantages, including up to 10 Bonus Points. The UWS Advantage can help you get into the course of your choice and achieve your higher education goals. »» Early Offer Program »» Regional Bonus Points »» Subject Bonus Points
»» Apple iPad Initiative »» Educational Access Scheme (EAS) »» Elite Athlete and Performer Bonus Scheme
Go to uws.edu.au/uwsadvantage for more details.
DOUBLE DEGREES
Your study options at UWS are increasing. Now you can tailor your studies to your specific goals by combining degrees. In 2015, the Bachelor of Psychology can be combined with the Bachelor of Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking, and the Bachelor of Arts (Key program Psychology) with a Bachelor of Laws.
COURSE
UAC CODE
LOCATION
DURATION
ATAR
B Psychology/B Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking
727515
Bankstown
5F/8P*
nc
725011
Campbelltown
5F
90.50
725013
Parramatta
5F
92.00
B Arts (Key program Psychology)/B Laws
Key: B = Bachelor of; F = Full-time; P= Part-time; nc = New Course. *Part-time applies only to the B Applied Leadership and Critical Thinking component.
For more information please call the UWS Course Information Centre on 1300 897 669 or email study@uws.edu.au
1300 897 669 myfuture.uws.edu.au
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APPLICANT CHECKLIST
1 FIND OUT ABOUT OUR COURSES
Read the information within this Guide Talk with Careers Advisors, your parents and teachers/mentors Refer to the Future Students site, visit myfuture.uws.edu.au
3
2 TALK TO US
Attend UWS events – find out more at myfuture.uws.edu.au/events Call the UWS Course Information Centre on 1300 897 669 or email study@uws.edu.au Get the inside information on Alternative Entry Pathways to UWS, UWS Advantage and Bonus Points and Scholarships
APPLY TO UWS
Apply through UAC, visit uac.edu.au Place your UWS Preferences Check your eligibility and submit a scholarship application, visit uws.edu.au/scholarships
THE FACTS ON FEES The Federal Budget announced on 13 May 2014 listed proposed changes to higher education including fee deregulation and changes to FEE-HELP (formerly referred to as HECS). UWS recognises the need to continue to provide access to highquality, affordable university education.
For students already enrolled, and new students enrolling in 2014, the current fee arrangements will remain applicable and are not affected by the changes proposed by the Government.
continues to discuss the changes proposed in the Federal Budget with the Commonwealth and is working to determine an accessible fee structure to be applied from 1 January 2016.
The student fee freeze will apply to all new domestic students commencing anytime in 2014 in a Commonwealth supported place. UWS
For more information please visit the Federal Department of Education’s website at: https://education.gov.au/students-2
2014 STUDENT CONTRIBUTION BANDS AND AMOUNTS Bands and General Discipline Areas
2014 Maximum Student Contribution (Per EFTSL)
Band 3: Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science
$10,085
Band 2: M athematics, Statistics, Computing, Built Environment, Other Health, Applied Health, Science, Engineering Surveying, Agriculture
$8,613
Band 1: H umanities, Behavioural Science, Social Studies, Education, Clinical Psychology, Foreign Languages, Visual and Performing Arts, Nursing
$6,044
Note: Pre-2010 HECS students should go to studyassist.gov.au for more information. The rates shown and the placement of units of study shown in the table above will change for 2015. For more information visit studyassist.gov.au 14
UWS Psychology 2015
HELPING YOU PASS
Peer Assisted Study Sessions
Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) is a student-centred learning program. In PASS you will work with other students to understand the content of your unit/s and develop various study strategies to help you improve your academic performance. Through actively working together with other students, you will find that you are more engaged with the content and that your understanding deepens. You will also get to meet other people in your course. Each PASS group is run by a facilitator who has successfully studied the unit previously. PASS is free and voluntary. PASS is open to all students who want to improve their understanding of course material and their academic performance. It is highly recommended whether you are striving for a high distinction or a pass.
PROVIDING SUPPORT THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS
The University of Western Sydney is not only about obtaining an education. We also challenge ourselves to engage students who will get involved and make a difference to the University and wider communities. UWS has a unique set of scholarships on offer with many differing criteria. They reflect our strong commitment to academic excellence and opportunity for Greater Western Sydney students. Our scholarships support students who have diverse interests and skills, and who can and do make an active contribution. UWS works closely with business, industry and the community to ensure we offer scholarships that meet the needs of our students. Our scholarships provide our students with support and give them the opportunity to establish professional relationships while they study. Take the time to examine our scholarships and make the most of your opportunities for success. For details on UWS Scholarships, including the eligibility requirements and how to apply, refer to uws.edu.au/scholarships or call 1300 897 669.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
If you are an international student completing one of the following qualifications in 2014, you must apply through UAC International: »» an Australian Year 12 in or outside Australia »» an International Baccalaureate »» a New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 3 All other international students must apply directly to the University of Western Sydney. UWS International application forms, 2015 International tuition fees and further information about studying in Australia can be found at uws.edu.au/international If you have any questions about applying as an international student call 02 9852 5499 or email internationalstudy@uws.edu.au For international students, you can lodge your international student application online at uac.edu.au/international
PASS sessions run for an hour each week throughout the semester. Multiple sessions are offered in larger units and you can attend as many sessions as you wish. If you have any further enquiries please email pass@uws.edu.au
The University of Western Sydney reserves the right at all times to withdraw or vary courses listed within this publication. Variations may include but are not limited to location of its courses on UWS campuses or other locations. In the event that a course within this publication is to be changed or withdrawn, applicants will be advised by mail to the address specified by them on their UAC application before the last date for the change of preferences for the main round. In respect of course location change, students should be aware of the need to accommodate such changes for the whole or part of courses for which they enrol. The University also reserves the right to update, amend or replace online versions of this publication without notice. Published 2014
CRICOS Provider Number 00917K
From Sustainably Managed Forests: fsc.org
SEE YOU AT Parent Information Days, July 2014 UWS Open Day, 31 August 2014 UWS Campus Tours, September 2014 UWS Day Campbelltown, 6 November 2014 UWS Day Bankstown, 7 November 2014 Course Decision Day, 5 January 2015
More information: myfuture.uws.edu.au/events
INTERACT WITH US TO EXPERIENCE UWS LIFE Visit the Future Students Site: myfuture.uws.edu.au Visit the Events Mini-Site: myfuture.uws.edu.au/events Find us on Facebook: uws.edu.au/facebook Connect with us on Twitter: twitter.com/UWSNews Watch our YouTube videos: uws.edu.au/youtube Call the Course Information Centre: 1300 897 669 Email the Course Information Centre: study@uws.edu.au
University of Western Sydney Locked Bag 1797 Penrith NSW 2751 Australia uws.edu.au Course Information Centre 1300 897 669 study@uws.edu.au