Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Update
This program is not available for admission in 2026. Alternative programs offering similar opportunities are available such as the Bachelor of Science (Psychology), Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. Interested students can email students.cos@anu.edu.au for advice.
Overview
Decode the puzzle of the human brain with the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). This degree will allow you to explore both the research and applied components of psychology, with the opportunity to specialise in an area of interest when completing Honours in your fourth year.
This program is suited to those who intend to complete a postgraduate qualification in psychology, and pursue a career in research or in clinical psychology.
Fourth year, Honours year
- A fourth year of study that is a continuation of the undergraduate degree, with a focus both on coursework and completion of a major research project.
- Research training, working closing with a research supervisor.
- Full-time for two consecutive semesters.
- Honours extends the knowledge and skills developed during the Bachelor degree and provides a solid foundation in the practice of research suitable for entry to a broad range of careers.
What you will learn
The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) is a four year degree program listed with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council. It is designed for those students who are seeking a direct pathway into Honours. The degree offers concentrated study in psychology for students who want a thorough exploration of the discipline and the opportunity for specialisation in their third year before conducting a major research project in the honours year. It includes courses in the major substantive areas of psychology, together with comprehensive training in the research design and data analysis techniques used in psychological science.
Key facts
- 4 years full-time
- Semester 1 & 2 intake
- Minimum average required throughout degree
- #1 in Australia for graduate employability (Times Higher Education)
Careers
Psychology is an exciting career option with employment opportunities in the private and public sector as well as in universities. Psychology graduates have skills essential to any workplace. Career options include research, management consulting, human resources, marketing, public policy, child development and welfare, health and human services, education, counselling and clinical practice.
Psychological science can involve designing interventions to solve human problems and researching how people function in different environments.
The Australian National University has been ranked as the top university for graduate employability in Australia in the Global University Employability Ranking 2020. As a student at ANU, you gain access to the ANU Career Hub – an online career development and employability tool that includes a jobs board and careers resources. You also have access to drop-in chats with a career consultant and to attend our career fairs to meet potential employers.
ANU psychology graduate, Elliot McBride, is scaling new heights as he embarks on a rewarding career with UNICEF in Pakistan.
Read Elliot's storyLearning experience
Canberra is a great choice for a rural kid
I choose to study psychology because it’s such a big part of life. Studying psychology will enable me to understand, relate with, and help everyone around me.
Read Brianna's story
Undertake a brain-bending, award-winning honours project
In her psychology honours research, Paula is exploring what causes hallucinations.
Fees & scholarships
Scholarships
Whether you are looking for financial support to start your studies at ANU or help to move away from home for the first time, we have scholarship opportunities for you and your situation.
Convenors
Associate Professor Eryn Newman, Program Convenor
Discover the exciting field of cognitive psychology with Associate Professor Eryn Newman at ANU. Specialising in memory, decision-making, and the impact of misinformation, Professor Newman offers students a chance to engage in groundbreaking research and innovative learning.
Associate Professor Anne Aimola Davies, First Year Course Convenor and Honours Program Convenor
Join Associate Professor Anne Aimola Davies at ANU to explore cognitive neuroscience. Her expertise in visual cognition, neuropsychology, and brain injury rehabilitation offers students an enriching experience in research and practical applications in psychology.
How to apply
Understand the how to apply steps
Visit the domestic undergraduate applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.
Domestic undergraduate applicationsUnderstand the how to apply steps
Visit the international undergraduate applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.
International undergraduate applications