Course Description The Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) (DPsych) at Murdoch is a Graduate Research Degree and is also recognised as an AQF Level 10 qualification, meaning that it is recognised as a Doctoral degree (Professional) and an equivalent level of qualification as a PhD. A Professional Doctoral Degree is defined as a research focussed qualification that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge in the context of professional practice. Professional programs of study at a doctoral level combine professional accreditation as a Clinical psychologist via a program of structured learning with a comprehensive research program undertaken over at least two years of the qualification. The DPsych is the flagship program for the postgraduate offering. The advantage of the DPsych is that it offers a well-structured course work program and research components delivered in an integrated and structured way. The DPsych can be considered the optimal training pathway for future leaders in Clinical Psychology. The Doctor of Psychology is an intensive three and a half year professional research degree consisting of seminars, supervised practical work and applied research. Students who successfully obtain scholarship support or international students who meet selection criteria will be considered for direct entry to the DPsych. Applicants should hold a four-year sequence of study in an APAC accredited Psychology program with the equivalent of a 2A honours degree in Psychology. However, the majority of entrants to the program will enrol in and complete the first year of the Master of Applied Psychology (Clinical) and be considered for entry to the DPsych based on performance. Students who complete the first year of the relevant Master of Applied Psychology and who average grades of Distinction in their core first year units may apply for transfer to the DPsych. Applicants for the DPsych are required to submit a synopsis of their intended research and obtain the support of a Murdoch supervisor as part of their application. Applicants will be required to present their research plans to a panel of Psychology staff prior to admission. Students permitted to transfer from the Master of Applied Psychology will be exempt from the unit’s common to both degrees. Graduate students must be registered from the start of their higher degree as a provisional psychologist. Within the first two weeks of commencing the program, the student must gain provisional registration with Psychology Board of Australia. As many agencies require all staff working with their clients or patients to have a police clearance, students are required to obtain a Federal police clearance (which will include WA clearance) if accepted into the course. Successful applicants also need to have a Working with Children Check before they begin work in the internal child clinic. Clearly any agency will only be seeking information about behaviours that may place vulnerable clients at risk and will not be interested in any other type of behaviours. The student meets the cost of these clearances. Please note that some organisations providing professional placements require students to provide full immunisation records. Applicants must be in a position to provide these documents if required. Course Structure Course Structure - 84 credit points Year 1 - 24 credit points Year 2 and Onward - 60 credit points