Master of Professional Psychology

The Master of Professional Psychology (MPP) at The University of Notre Dame Australia is a one-year full time program that offers psychology graduates a 5th year of study as an essential step towards accreditation as a general psychologist. This program is an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) accredited Level 3 program of study. The program focuses on the integration of theory and professional practice and allows students to develop the advanced knowledge, skills, capabilities and attributes required for the safe and ethical practice of psychology.

Why study this degree?

• Through a combination of coursework, research and supervised placements, this program will enable you to develop advanced knowledge and skills in psychological assessment, intervention, research and practice. With an emphasis on the integration of science practice with critical thinking, ethics and the consideration of cultural diversity, this program prepares you for professional practice in psychology based on quality client care and psychological services focused on the whole human person.

Learning outcomes

• Upon successful completion of the Master of Professional Psychology graduates will be able to:
• Apply professional, ethical, legal and cultural standards and competencies to the practice of psychology
• Apply advanced theoretical knowledge and evidence-based, scientific methods to solve complex research and practice-based problems in professional psychology
• Effectively employ professional communication, in oral and written formats, across a wide range of audiences in a culturally safe manner
• Collaborate effectively with clients and other service providers
• Apply advanced knowledge and skills to engage in ethical and safe psychological assessment under appropriate supervision
• Employ advanced knowledge and skills to engage in ethical and safe psychological interventions under appropriate supervision
• Engage in self-reflective professional practice to evaluate, maintain, and improve professional competence
• Utilise advanced knowledge and skill to interact and work with clients across the lifespan and from diverse cultural settings, in culturally safe ways, including those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds
• Design and execute a substantial research project relevant to the professional practice of psychology

Practical component

• The Master of Professional Psychology includes 300 practicum hours that are spread over one year. In Professional Psychology Practice A, students will complete 180 hours of practicum, consisting of observations and simulated practice activities. In Professional Psychology Practice B, students will complete 120 hours in an external placement with a partner organisation. Fitness to practice and inherent requirements apply. Students are required to register as provisional psychologists with the Psychology Board of Australia before commencing the program.