Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy

• Develop advanced expertise in clinical psychology through a premier accredited program
• Gain comprehensive knowledge in psychopathology, assessment, and evidence-based treatments
• Acquire culturally responsive competencies for diverse client populations
• Undertake original research through a doctoral thesis, contributing new knowledge to clinical psychology

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy program at the University of Melbourne is renowned for training students to become highly skilled psychologists. This accredited course aims to equip graduates with a robust understanding of psychological disorders combined with proficiency in culturally responsive assessment and treatment.

The curriculum emphasises therapeutic skills grounded in cognitive-behavioural approaches, delivered through didactic instruction, individual supervision, and group-based clinical contexts. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements, working with clients across the lifespan under the guidance of expert faculty actively engaged in clinical practice and research.

Who is the Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy for?

This program is designed for those wanting a strong knowledge base in psychopathology, combined with a high level of skill and acumen in culturally responsive assessment and treatment of psychological conditions that can present across the lifespan. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in the first year of Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) to be considered. Currently enrolled students can apply to transfer to the combined Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/PhD program for the following year.

Applications to transfer are opened to currently enrolled Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) students towards the end of their first year.

The course provides comprehensive training for those interested in pursuing careers in various settings, including private practice, community health centres, hospitals, educational institutions, government agencies, and research organisations.

Why study the Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy?

The Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy program offers a unique opportunity to develop advanced clinical expertise while contributing to the field through original research. Key benefits include:

• The course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), providing the required sequence of subjects for graduates wishing to attain generalist registration as a psychologist in Australia as well as competency in knowledge and skills relevant to the clinical psychology specialisation
• Rigorous training in evidence-based assessment and treatment approaches, with a focus on cognitive-behavioural therapy
• Hands-on clinical experience through placements in various settings, working with clients across the lifespan
• Opportunity to conduct research and contribute to the body of knowledge in clinical psychology through a doctoral thesis

Upcoming information sessions

Postgraduate Psychology Information Session

When:  Tuesday, 25 August 2026, 6.00-7.30pm AEST

Are you interested in Postgraduate Psychology studies as the next step on your pathway to professional registration as a psychologist?

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

• Master of Professional Psychology
• Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental)
• Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology)
• Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)
• Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology

Register now

PhD in Psychological Sciences Information Session

When:  Wednesday, 26 August 2026, 5.30-6.30pm AEST

The Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences hosted an information session for prospective students interested in undertaking PhD studies in Psychological Sciences.

During the session, our academics will provide a broad overview of the PhD program in Psychological Sciences and an overview of the research in each of the school's hubs/centres. Attendees gained an understanding of program eligibility, supervisor selection, the application and scholarship process.

Current graduate researchers were also shared their student experience and insights.

Register now