Advance your psychology career and contribute important ideas to an ever-evolving discipline, with a PhD in Psychology from VU.PhD in Psychology program at VU Our PhD program offers advanced research opportunities to those who’ve completed a relevant honours or masters degree in psychology. During your study, you’ll make real contributions to the psychology field through an original thesis in one of our research-focus areas. You’ll benefit from the support of an expert community of researchers, with world-class opportunities for interdisciplinary research. We focus on real-world, applicable studies. Our partnerships with educational, health and community organisations can enable you to embed your research in relevant settings. You’ll learn to present your research in a variety of contexts, such as journals and public presentations. Pathways to a PhD in psychology We have many postgraduate courses in psychology where you can consolidate your study and take your career to a new level. A suggested pathway to your PhD is to undertake a research masters following your bachelor degree. You may progress or transfer to a PhD program. In order to practise as a psychologist, you must complete an appropriately accredited postgraduate course. The Master of Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) and the Master of Applied Psychology (Community Psychology) consist of course work, work placements and a research thesis. Graduates are eligible for practice accreditation, and registration with the AHPRA. After completing the applied masters degree, you may apply to the doctoral program. Careers in psychology research A PhD will enhance your career opportunities in applied health settings. The Master of Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) qualifies you to work as a clinical psychologist, following registration with the AHPRA. Adding a PhD increases your expertise and specialist skills in health-related research. You’ll also graduate ready for a research career in government, health institutes or universities. Job titles include: psychologist researcher policy adviser university lecturer. Course structure The PhD is a research based degree with a maximum duration of 4 years (full time) and 8 years (part time). As well as enrolling in Research Thesis units Doctor of Philosophy (Science) students will be required to complete two coursework units, ROP8001 and ROP8002. An average result of 70% is required in the compulsory coursework units in order to proceed to candidature confirmation. Ongoing progression is subject to policy and procedures for candidature management as per the VU HDR Policy.