Handbook

This professionally-accredited course in Clinical Psychology is focused on a model of the clinical psychologist as both a scientist and practitioner. This model stresses assessment and treatment practices which are based in scientific reasoning and systematic problem-solving. In a clinical setting, the clinical psychologist combines systematic assessment and measurement with explanatory frameworks to reach an understanding of each individual in their personal, cultural and social context. In a research context, a clinical psychologist is able to apply their knowledge of scientific approaches to designing studies and interpreting existing studies to address clinically relevant questions.

The course consists of two years of full-time study or may be undertaken on a part-time basis. The course includes coursework, practicum, and research components. The objective of the Course is to prepare clinical psychologists who are skilled to work with clients across the lifespan- children, families and adults, and can apply a variety of models and skills to prevention, research, and evaluation at the individual and system levels. There is also an expectation that graduates will have demonstrated their research abilities by undertaking a major research project of clinical relevance.

Murdoch is home to the Murdoch Psychology Clinic, which is a busy training and research facility serving the needs of the local community. The course includes in-depth training in clinical assessment and psychological therapies integrated with both a specialist child psychology and an adult psychology clinic which serve as as research and training facilities.

In the second year of their studies candidates undertake approved external placements in collaboration with the Commonwealth and State Public Services, such as the Department of Health, Department for Community Development, Department of Justice, Disability Services Commission, WA Police Service and other public and private services and facilities in Western Australia. Candidates must include at least one placement in an adult clinical facility and one in a child or adolescent clinical facility.