Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) at The Cairnmillar Institute is a two-year postgraduate qualification for people who want to work as clinical psychologists. It sits at master's level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it builds on an accredited four-year psychology sequence and prepares you for the supervised practice and registration requirements of the profession.

How the course is structured

Like most Australian master's degrees, the programme is delivered across semesters, with each unit of study carrying a set number of credit points. You complete coursework units in clinical assessment, psychopathology, therapeutic interventions and professional ethics, alongside supervised clinical practice. The degree typically includes a research component, either a thesis or a major research project, and clinical placements in community health, hospital or private practice settings. Placement hours count towards the supervised practice you need for registration.

What you actually study

You learn how to conduct diagnostic interviews, administer and interpret psychological tests, formulate cases, and deliver evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy. You also study research methods and complete a supervised research project. The clinical placements are where the theory becomes real: you work with clients under the supervision of registered psychologists, usually across more than one setting.

Who it suits

This course is for graduates who already hold an accredited four-year psychology qualification (or equivalent) and want to become registered clinical psychologists. It suits people who are comfortable with both research and direct client work, and who want to practise in Australia. The Institute is based in Melbourne, and the programme is registered on CRICOS for international students.

Practical information

International applicants need to meet English language requirements. The common standard for coursework postgraduate degrees is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, though some fields require higher. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the Institute's own English programmes are accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. Always confirm current entry requirements, fees and placement arrangements on the official page before applying.

• Clinical psychologist in hospitals, community mental health services and private practice
• Psychology roles in schools, correctional services and youth justice
• Mental health clinician in not-for-profit organisations and Aboriginal community-controlled health services
• Research assistant or research officer in universities and health institutes
• Consultant to government departments on mental health policy and programme evaluation
• Registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (after completing supervised practice)