The Master of Psychology (Clinical) degree is the standard preparation program providing professional training and practise in clinical psychology. It consists of three major components: specialised coursework in a series of topics relevant to clinical practice, research thesis and three long field placements aimed at developing professional competence under the guidance of highly experienced supervisors.

The program involves two years full-time or four years part-time study. The program has two key objectives. The first is to provide thorough theoretical and clinical skills preparation in core areas to meet formal requirements for entry to the profession (as determined by its accrediting bodies). The second is to prepare graduates to accept responsibility for continuing self-monitoring and development, skills that are essential to ongoing employment in the profession.

Entry is available to graduates with a good Honours degree in Psychology comprising of a minimum of Second Class, Division A Honours and an individually-conducted research project carrying 33% or more of the years work. Selection procedures depend on academic results, referee reports and a structured interview conducted by a panel. There is usually very strong competition for the limited number of places available.

Applicants must have qualified for Bachelors degree Honours in Psychology, or a program recognised by the University of Adelaide as an equivalent award.

This program commences in late January of the first year of study. Students enroled in full-time study will complete seven courses of study and one placement during the first year and two further placements and the research project during the second year. The research thesis is in the form of a literature review and a research article of a specified length.

The combined Master of Psychology (Clinical)/Doctor of Philosophy degree involves completing all Masters coursework and placements and a PhD level research project in Clinical Psychology.

This program will not be offered in 2010

Clinical psychologists have specialist training in the assessment and diagnosis of major mental illnesses and psychological problems.

Specific areas assessed, diagnosed and treated by clinical psychologists include:

• Adjustment disorders
• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Anxiety disorders e.g. social anxiety, phobias, panic attacks
• Attention deficit disorders
• Behaviour disorders
• Brain injury e.g. attention, memory, judgement, reasoning deficits
• Chronic pain
• Chronic psychiatric conditions
• Delirium, dementia and other cognitive disorders
• Depression and depressive illness
• Eating disorders
• Educational functioning
• Intellectual disability
• Loss, grief and bereavement
• Couple and family difficulties
• Medical conditions caused or aggravated by stress
• Obsessions and compulsive behaviour
• Parent-child relationships
• Personality problems
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Relationship difficulties
• Sexual disorders
• Sleep disorders
• Stress and chronic stress disorders
• Suicidal behaviour

The program provides graduates with the tertiary-level education required to be eligible for registration as a Psychologist in South Australia and membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) College of Clinical Psychologists.

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