Course Catalogue

There are inherent requirements for this course. Students must read and understand the requirements for this course.

Our Master of Psychology (Clinical) is designed for those eager to make a meaningful impact on mental health and psychological well-being. It provides advanced knowledge and practical skills essential for a rewarding career as a registered psychologist in Australia, with a clear pathway to the registrar program for Clinical Psychology endorsement.

The program integrates cutting-edge research, contemporary teaching, and hands-on clinical training to produce graduates who are highly skilled, adaptable, and community-focused, with a strong emphasis on the diverse communities of the Northern Territory.

• Fast-Track Pathway: If you have completed a Master of Professional Psychology, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), enabling you to complete the Master of Clinical Psychology in just one additional year.
• Contemporary Clinical Training: Gain expertise in face-to-face therapy, telehealth services, and immersive technologies, including virtual reality interventions.
• Comprehensive Learning Experience: The program combines coursework, research, and practical placements to ensure you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience for success in clinical practice.
• Real-World Impact: Our graduates actively engage with local communities, applying evidence-based practices to support individuals, families, and society.
• Supportive Learning Environment: The rigorous clinical training is intellectually challenging, but you will be supported by expert academic staff, dedicated supervisors, and a vibrant student community.

We warmly welcome Master of Professional Psychology (MPP) graduates to apply directly into the second year of our Master of Psychology Clinical (MPC) program through recognition of prior learning. The second year is delivered through intensive blocks in Darwin and Sydney, combined with an external placement anywhere in Australia, offering flexibility and diverse learning experiences, alongside a unique regional opportunity in the Northern Territory or New South Wales during the intensives.

MPP graduates applying to the enter into the 2nd year of the MPC course at CDU are encouraged to build relationships with a few potential organisations where they can complete their clinical placements. Students should ensure that their preferred placement organisation has an endorsed clinical psychologist who is Board Approved Supervisor to oversee their placement. This approach ensures swift commencement of placement and supports student preferences and flexibility to conduct their placement anywhere in Australia.

Admission into the second year is based on application, interview, and an assessment of the equivalence of MPP units completed elsewhere compared to the first-year units of our MPC.

In 2026, 1st year student can only enrol at the Casuarina Campus. They can enrol at the Casuarina or Sydney Campus for their 2nd year of study.

In 2026, MPP graduates entering the 2nd year of the MPC can do so at the Casuarina or Sydney Campus.

From 2027, 1st year students and MPP graduates can enrol at either the Casuarina or Sydney Campus.

To demonstrate the achievement of graduate competencies, at least 1000 hours of placement across of a minimum of three placements is required (APAC Evidence Guide 1.9). In addition, the first placement (at CDU this is Placement 1a + Placement 1b) is to be no less than 180 hours (APAC Evidence Guide 1.8). The 1000 hours of placement time enables the development of graduate competencies in a flexible manner.

This course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and is approved by the Australian Psychological Society College of Clinical Psychologists.

The Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Charles Darwin University provides a clear pathway to becoming a registered psychologist, with eligibility for the Clinical Psychology registrar program. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to work in diverse professional settings, including public and private mental health services, hospitals, community health centres, and specialist clinics. Opportunities also extend to private practice, government and non-government organisations, forensic and correctional services, and schools, where clinical psychologists play a crucial role in supporting individuals, families, and communities.

With a strong emphasis on practical training and real-world application, this program ensures that graduates are prepared to deliver evidence-based psychological interventions across different populations. Those interested in research and academia can also pursue careers in university teaching and clinical psychology research, contributing to the development of innovative mental health solutions.

A key feature of this program is its commitment to culturally responsive practice, particularly within regional, rural, and remote communities. Graduates will be uniquely positioned to address the mental health needs of diverse populations, including Indigenous communities and individuals facing social and environmental challenges. Whether working in clinical settings, policymaking, or research, graduates of this program will have the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in the field of clinical psychology and make a lasting impact on mental health and wellbeing.