Master of Applied Psychology

Apply psychology to tackle real-world, complex challenges

The Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) is designed for psychology graduates who seek to apply high-level psychological principles to solve complex challenges in the commercial, public, and social sectors. This program bridges the gap between psychological theory and practical application, equipping you with a sophisticated toolkit to influence behaviour, drive innovation, and inform evidence-based decision-making.

Key features

• Industry integration. Benefit from direct engagement with industry leaders and guest lecturers who provide real-world context to academic theory.
• Choose your path. Tailor your final semester with either an Industry Internship (placing you within organisations like the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT), Cancer Council Victoria, TAC, Forethought, Alt/Shift) or an Applied Research Project to solve a specific behaviour change challenge for a partner organisation.
• Interdisciplinary learning experience. Complete subjects from the Faculty of Business and Economics and the Melbourne School of Public Health.

Why study psychology at Melbourne?

As a Master of Applied Psychology student, you are part of a high-achieving, collaborative cohort. Beyond the classroom, you are integrated into the broader Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences community, gaining exclusive access to research colloquiums and a network of peers who will become your future professional colleagues. Many of our MAP subjects are taught in a small, seminar-style format. This creates an engaging and interactive learning environment where you can actively participate, ask questions, and truly deepen your understanding.

• Application of knowledge. Learn to apply psychological theories and research to various real-world settings, illustrating how these insights can be used to address practical challenges and enhance outcomes.
• Analytical skills. Beyond behavioural theory, you will gain rigorous training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, making you an expert in translating data into actionable strategy.
• Critical thinking. You'll learn to evaluate research critically — weighing its strengths, limitations, and real-world relevance. This helps you make informed decisions about which findings apply to the clients and communities you'll work with.

Learn more about the School

Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences

PsychTalks podcast

Past information session

What Next After Undergraduate Psychology Information Session

When:  Monday, 24 August 2026, 6-7.30pm AEST

Ready to take your passion for psychology to the next level? Explore the exciting world of psychology studies and pave the way to a fulfilling career in the field.

Hear from academics and current students about study at the University of Melbourne in the following programs:

• Fourth Year Psychology
  • Honours
  • Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)
• Master of  Biomedical Science - Psychology projects
• Master of Applied Psychology
• Master of Professional Psychology

Watch recording