Bachelor of Psychological Science

Start your accredited pathway to becoming a Psychologist

Psychology is the science of human behaviour. Delving deep into the processes of the mind, it helps us explain why we act the way we do as individuals and how we operate collectively as a society.

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is the first step on that pathway, giving you an introduction to a broad range of concepts. You'll develop a scientific understanding of normal psychological processes such as personality, emotion, motivation, learning and memory, as well as abnormal behaviours.

You'll also learn to understand, evaluate and apply research methods, and analyse and interpret data by participating in the Cognitive Research Labs.

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is recognised by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as the equivalent of the first three years of the six-year Psychology training pathway. Thanks to Bond's accelerated three-semesters-per-year timetable, you can complete the Bachelor qualification in just two (2) years and the full pathway to registration in four (4) years, eight (8) months.

The School of Psychology

Bond University's School of Psychology has earned a reputation as a leader in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research. It offers the full suite of Psychology qualifications required to gain registration as a practising Psychologist; all of which are accredited by the Australian Psychological Accreditation Council (APAC) and approved by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).

Campus and Bond University Experience

Bond University has been ranked #1 in Australia for Student Experience by the Good Universities Guide for well over a decade.

This ranking recognises that there is a big difference between learning in large anonymous cohorts and working in small, discussion-based classes where you will be mentored through your studies by world-renowned academics, researchers and practising psychologists, including Australia's 2019 Psychologist of the Year, Dr Peta Stapleton.

When it comes to planning your career, the team at the Career Development Centre will work with you to find internships and work placements, while the student-led Bond Psychological Society organises regular networking events where you will meet potential industry contacts and future employers.

As for your social life – Bond is renowned for it, with a huge range of active student clubs, sporting teams, swimming pools, the aquatic centre, student gym, fitness and yoga classes, restaurants, cafes, and everyone's favourite watering hole, Don's Tavern, all right here on campus.

Learn from internationally recognised and endorsed academics

The pathway to becoming a registered psychologist
Becoming a registered psychologist is a long journey - but it's an extremely rewarding one. At Bond, our accelerated programs mean you can get a headstart on your path to becoming a registered psychologist and making a difference in the lives of others.

Explore the Effects of Alcohol on the Brain
How does alcohol affect vision and cognitive ability? Our host, Candice Dixon, and psychologist Dr Peta Stapleton show you with some extra special goggles that simulate the intoxicated brain.

Learn from internatially recognised and endorsed academics

At Bond, students are taught by internationally recognised and endorsed academics with expertise across a variety of research interests. Students are provided networking opportunities through the Bond Psychological Society – a student body comprised of like-minded students who embrace the important of knowledge-sharing.

Combined Degree Options

The Bachelor of Psychological Science also combines well with the Bachelor of Laws.

Bachelor of Psychological Science/Bachelor of Laws

"I am currently studying at Bachelor of Psychological Science at Bond. I decided to study psychology because after being diagnosed with a medical condition, my goal of becoming an elite athlete was unobtainable. After years of researching and exploring my condition, I decided to alter my trajectory towards academia and community engagement. Through this process, I developed a personal attachment to the way the body functions, and became fascinated with the progression of the research enterprise. Show more
"I am currently studying at Bachelor of Psychological Science at Bond. I decided to study psychology because after being diagnosed with a medical condition, my goal of becoming an elite athlete was unobtainable. After years of researching and exploring my condition, I decided to alter my trajectory towards academia and community engagement. Through this process, I developed a personal attachment to the way the body functions, and became fascinated with the progression of the research enterprise.
I had some aspirations to study Medicine, but at the end of year 12, I found myself engrossed in the study of human behaviour. I considered how I could utilise my experience; prevailing through mentally challenging times, and my love for biological science - in order to make a positive difference in peoples’ lives. Thus, It seemed that Psychology was the choice for me.
I chose to study at Bond, first and foremost, because of the location as the university is private yet also very close to many Gold Coast attractions. Whether it be a trip to the Miami Night Marketta, or a Beach day at Burleigh, Bond students are so close to many of the exciting leisure activities that the Gold Coast has to offer. In addition, the atmosphere at Bond Uni combines enjoyment, focus and community into one heightened experience. Bond Uni provides students with a practical knowledge, and equips students to embark on a journey of personal growth, rather than simply engaging in rote learning and exam study. Perhaps it is the small community of caring and driven people that ensures that Bond feels like home, or perhaps it is the first-class facilities available to us, or maybe it is the level of professionalism that staff bring to the classroom. From my perspective, however, what makes Bond University stand out as the sole contender is all of these things, and more.
With such an array of opportunities across various Universities Australia wide, and Globally, choosing a University that I believed would deliver the best course was extremely challenging. However, the psychological science course that Bond University offered me ensured my dilemma was resolved immediately. In a world that is changing so rapidly, it is essential to get ahead and challenge yourself to work with innovation, strategy and continuity. Bond University’s Psychological Science degree is fast tracked, ensuring after only two years you have finished your undergraduate degree. In the long term, Bond Universities courses allow all students to move into the workforce sooner, thus, aligning with the rapid nature of societal change. This, combined with the engaging content, the opportunity to participate in real research and the quality of lecturers and tutors at Bond University, I felt as though there was no other option.
For eleven years Bond University has been awarded more 5-star ratings in the student experience category than any other university in Australia. I understand that many would question why this is so. It is simple really, you only have to step onto the Bond University campus on a day to day basis to recognise the incredible opportunities available for students here at Bond. In my opinion, the atmosphere at Bond University ensures it is more than just a place to study. Bond university has various hardworking student associations that constantly ensure that all students at Bond have the opportunity to socialise and meet new people. With weekly themed functions and events such as dinners, movie nights, and other games and activities, there is never a possibility that you will be bored. In saying this, however, the students at Bond University also have an academic drive to succeed. With everyone working at a fast pace, studying has become a lot more interactive and enjoyable. Revision seminars, group study classes and 24/7 library study facilities have allowed me to prosper as an academic within the University. Bond also places a large focus on connecting students with professionals in industry. As part of my scholarship, I have had the opportunity to gain insights from a CEO of a HR company and a life coach. From my mentor, I have learnt about how I can position myself to increase my employability, but I have also been exposed to the importance of exploration, leisure and work life balance. Above all else, my mentor has provided me with valuable insights into how to prosper, continually learn and grow as a person." Show less

"I completed my Bachelor of Psychological Science at Bond in 2016 – I started in 2015. I am currently in my second semester of completing my honours. I chose Bond because I wanted to move away from Sydney, and Bond seemed to offer everything I wanted for an education such as the small class sizes and fast-tracked degree. Bond has a unique lifestyle - the students here really care about their studies and put in a lot of work to achieve good grades and apply for highly sought-after internships, but it’s also a very laid-back lifestyle where the students make time for a social life. Show more
"I completed my Bachelor of Psychological Science at Bond in 2016 – I started in 2015. I am currently in my second semester of completing my honours. I chose Bond because I wanted to move away from Sydney, and Bond seemed to offer everything I wanted for an education such as the small class sizes and fast-tracked degree. Bond has a unique lifestyle - the students here really care about their studies and put in a lot of work to achieve good grades and apply for highly sought-after internships, but it’s also a very laid-back lifestyle where the students make time for a social life.
I live on campus in South Tower, I found moving to Bond a bit of an adjustment. I boarded in year 12 so the concept of living alone did not bother me, however I found living in another state to my parents quite scary but it didn’t take long for me to adjust to living that far away from my family.
The highlights of my experience at Bond have been the academic staff and the social events. The academic staff have been amazing in helping me achieve the goals I set out for myself e.g. getting Distinctions in most subjects, getting into honours, and now aiming to achieve first class honours. The social events are always a blast everyone seems to rally around the big events and its always an amazing night. I’ve also really enjoyed being part of the water polo team, and competing for the university.
I have been the Secretary and Vice President of the Bond University Water Polo club. I have participated in Australian Uni Games for Water polo in 2015. I have been a student representative for Bond when all the school career advisors from across Australia came to bond to talk about student experiences.
Bond is an amazing opportunity that prepares you really well for the future while also fostering your current development in your course. Bond offers many unique opportunities that you otherwise wouldn’t come across, and if you have the chance definitely take advantage of them. Bond puts you at an advantage over your peers and the level of education you receive is amazing. I think it’s the way the academics really care about the students and want to foster their growth and want to help them achieve their goals that sets Bond apart." Show less

Key features

Complete your Bachelor of Psychological Science, equivalent to Years 1-3, in just two (2) years
The fastest pathway to your career as a registered practising psychologist – complete the full six (6) year pathway in just four (4) years, eight (8) months
Develop a strong foundation in the science of Psychology and human behaviour
Choose electives in specialised areas such as Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology and Love, and Sex and Relationships
Undertake practical research in the Cognitive Research Labs
Learn from internationally recognised psychologists in small personalised classes
Network with professional Psychologists and alumni at events run by Bond Psychological Society

About the program

The Bachelor of Psychological Science provides students with a scientific understanding of normal psychological processes such as memory, learning, motivation, psychobiology, personality, emotion, developmental psychology and social relationships, as well as training in abnormal psychology. A basic understanding of these topics is acquired across the two introductory subjects before a greater depth of coverage is undertaken within the advanced second and third level subjects. Students also participate in laboratory work and are introduced to the Australian Psychological Society Code of Ethics. To underpin the scientific nature of the discipline, students receive training in a range of data analytic techniques and research methods used by psychologists. The program is designed to equip graduates with the basic scientific grounding and theoretical understanding required for advanced level studies. Show less

Mode	On Campus
Duration	6 semesters (2 years)
Starting semesters	September 2022 January 2023 May 2023 September 2023 January 2024 May 2024 September 2024
Program type	Bachelors Degree
Study area	Social Sciences, Psychology and Counselling
Program code	HS-20035
CRICOS code	062655C
Credit for prior study	For more details on applying for credit, please contact the Student Business Centre: [email protected]

Structure and subjects

View the Bachelor of Psychological Science - Program Structure and Sequencing

The Bachelor of Psychological Science comprises 24 subjects, as follows:

University core subjects (3)

Plus: Beyond Bond: Professional Development and Community Engagement

Compulsory subjects (15)

Foundations of Psychology: Biology & Personality (PSYC11-100)
Foundations of Psychology: Development, Learning & Social (PSYC11-101)
Statistics and Data Analysis 1 (PSYC11-105)
Statistics and Data Analysis 2 (PSYC12-200)
Biological Psychology (PSYC12-214)
Cross-Cultural Psychology (PSYCH12-225)
Learning and Behaviour (PSYC12-250)
Developmental Psychology (PSYC12-315)
Social Psychology (PSYC12-325)
Cognitive Psychology (PSYC13-301)
Personality, Assessment & Individual Differences (PSYC13-302)
Research Methods in Psychology (PSYC13-305)
Psychopathology (PSYC13-312)
Motivation and Emotion (PSYC13-316)
Statistics and Data Analysis 3 (PSYC13-345)

Psychology electives (1)

Students must choose one (1) of the following subjects:

Love, Sex and Relationships (PSYC11-116)
Psychology at Work (PSYC12-211)
Positive Well-Being (PSYC12-202)
Counselling Psychology (PSYC13-306)
Drugs and Behaviour (PSYC13-308)
Forensic Psychology (PSYC13-339)
Applied Psychology (PSYC13-317)
Neuropsychology (PSYC13-408)

Electives (5)

Students can choose 5 subjects (50CP) from the list of available subjects from across the University, provided they meet the subject requisites, enrolment restrictions and any other faculty requirements.

International students

To fulfil your student visa requirements, you will need to enrol in 40 credit points per semester.

Domestic students

Most students undertake four (4) subjects per semester (equivalent to 40 credit points). You may however enrol in fewer subjects and extend your degree over a long period.

Program fees

The below fees are based on the total estimated program fee divided by the number of standard full-time semesters required to complete the program. Fees may vary based on which subjects are selected and the number of subjects enrolled in for each semester.

Semester program fee:

Students commencing study in 2022: $15,800* per semester average
Students commencing study in 2023: $16,200* per semester average

Total program fee:

Students commencing study in 2022: $94,800
Students commencing study in 2023: $97,200

When considering the fees associated with your studies, keep in mind that Bond’s accelerated schedule means you can finish your degree sooner and be out in the workforce up to a year earlier than most other universities.

This time saving also represents a substantial reduction in accommodation and living costs, plus a full year of extra earnings.

Find out your financing options and other costs to consider.

* The fees listed are average costs displayed to provide an indicative program cost only, they may differ to the indicative fee included in the Bond University offer letter due to differences in individual and exact study schedules.

Tuition fees are subject to change on an annual basis and will be charged at the appropriate fee for the year of enrolment.

Admission criteria

Academic requirements

Applicants with recent secondary education (within the past two years)

Entry score for 2021 entry

Min ATAR	Min OP	Min IB
65	15	24

Visit our student profile if you are interested in the profile of all students who commenced undergraduate study at the Faculty in the January semester 2020.

Applicants must meet the University's general minimum admission criteria.

2022 Year 12 entry

In a disrupted world, Year 12 students have shown incredible resilience in adapting to the ongoing challenges presented by the events of recent years. Year 12 students can be assessed now for a guaranteed offer for 2022 entry conditional on the completion of Year 12. Applications will be assessed based on their first semester Year 12 results and meeting any subject prerequisite requirements for their program. Find out more.

International Secondary School students

For more information for International Students, including the International Baccalaureate, please go to the International Secondary School equivalency page.

Alternative entry pathways

For those applicants who do not currently have the required academic qualifications, there are a number of alternative entry pathways:

Bond University Tertiary Preparation programs
Bond University Diploma programs
Other institutional Tertiary Preparation Programs
Vocational education and training qualifications (Certificate IV and above)
Prior higher education experience (at this university or another)
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
Professional or para-professional qualifications/experience
Employment experience verified by a statement of service from the employer stating the position title and length of service and a very brief statement on the tasks undertaken.

For more information on what is required please visit our how to apply page.

English language proficiency requirements

As tuition is delivered in English, all students will be required to provide documented evidence of the required level of proficiency in the English language. Read more detailed information on English language proficiency requirements for university study.

Credit for prior study

Subject credits may be awarded for previous studies. To apply for credits, you will need to submit academic transcripts including detailed subject outlines/course descriptions for each relevant subject and/or certified copies of testamurs to the Office of Future Students. Please refer to how to apply for credit for more information

Key dates

Bond University calendar

How to apply

In order to apply for study at Bond University, you will need to complete the online application form. To find out more about the application process please refer to how to apply.

Future outcomes

Industry overview

The Bachelor of Psychological Science opens the door to a wide range of rewarding careers where you can make a real difference in the lives of others: Careers based on helping people suffering from trauma, mental health issues and physical disabilities; or where you can predict and change behaviours or improve performance – on the sporting field, in the workplace and in dealing with everyday life.

With a strong emphasis on critical thinking, communication and analytical skills, undergraduate qualifications in Psychology can be applied to careers in private enterprise, government and community settings. Some of the many possibilities include:

Education – counselling, behaviour management
Business – change management, organisational Psychology
Human resources and career guidance
Policy making
Criminal investigations and profiling
Sport and exercise – sports Psychology, athlete performance
Rehabilitation – counselling
Not-for-profit organisations
Community action
Marketing / Advertising / Communications
NDIS services including mental health support
Research

Professional outcomes

Once fully registered as a practicing Psychologist, graduates can specialise and be endorsed in nine areas of practice, namely:

Clinical neuropsychology 
Clinical Psychology 
Community Psychology 
Counselling Psychology 
Educational and developmental Psychology 
Forensic Psychology 
Health Psychology 
Organisational Psychology
Sport and exercise Psychology

Further study

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is the first step on the pathway to becoming a registered Psychologist. There are a couple of options available to continue the process:

BPsychSc graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on Bond University’s 4-point scale for all second and third level Psychology subjects will be eligible to enrol in the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours);
BPsychSc graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on Bond University’s 4-point scale for all second and third level Psychology subjects will be eligible to enrol in the Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science;
BPsychSc graduates who do not meet the above criteria may be eligible to enrol in the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging).

Professional accreditation

Bond University’s Bachelor of Psychological Sciences is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and approved by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) as the equivalent of the first three years on the six-year pathway to becoming a registered Psychologist in Australia.

Graduates may apply for Fourth Year studies, depending on GPA.

Career readiness

According to the annual Employer Satisfaction Survey published by the Australian Government Department of Education, employer satisfaction with Bond graduates has been rated highest in Australia for three years in a row.

We believe this is due to Bond’s uniquely personalised approach to teaching, combined with the application of case-based learning that encourages the development of increased analytical reasoning, critical thinking and a range of broader employability skills.

Our Psychology program’s clear focus on practical skills and the extensive workplace experience opportunities on and off campus, combined with Bond’s employability initiatives such as the Career Development Centre, means that you will enter the workforce with the skills, experience and confidence to stand out.

Meet our academics

To learn more about our Psychology Academics and their research interests, visit the Staff & Research Interests page.

Beyond Graduation

Justyce Pengilly - Bachelor of Psychological Science
Justyce Pengilly recently graduated from a Bachelor of Psychological Science and is on the cusp of completing her Honours year in Psychology at Bond. “Growing up, I saw a lot of people struggling with mental health issues. I found myself wanting to understand it and to be able to do something about it. I thought the best way to do that would be to make a career out of it. One of the biggest problems is that there aren’t many Aboriginal psychologists – trained therapists who really understand our culture and the way we live … our relationships … our deep connection with family". One of the highlights of her Bond experience, Justyce says, is seeing those dynamics at work during an internship with Marumali Consultations – one of the very few Aboriginal owned and run psychology services, based on the Gold Coast at Tallebudgera. With the end of her Honours year in sight, Justyce is planning to take six months off before returning to study her Masters of Psychology at Bond in May.

Mikayla Hudson - Bachelor of Psychological Science
Mikayla Hudson's biggest passion is learning the science behind what makes people tick. The Bachelor of Psychological Science graduate has always been interested in the workings of the human mind, and as an Aboriginal Secondary Education Transition Officer (ASETO) she gets to put her theory into practice each day. After graduating from Bond, Mikayla returned to her home town of Port Augusta in South Australia to work in the ASETO support role with Indigenous students at a local high school. Her day-to-day work involves spending time with students during lessons and liaising with families and other school stakeholders regarding their progress. "I often spend lessons in class with Aboriginal students, tutoring them, and other times I'll be in the education office taking calls from families," says Mikayla, "It's basically about working with students and their families to help give them the best education possible."

Psychology students on the frontline of the pandemic

Bond’s postgraduate psychology students are at the coalface of the COVID-19 pandemic, working in the Bond Psychology Clinic to provide much-needed services for people who are struggling.