Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)

Undertake a PhD in Clinical Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) is a four-year research degree consisting of a substantial and original piece of clinical psychology research, plus field placements and course work.

This course provides you with an opportunity to pursue doctoral-level research in a specialised area of clinical psychology.

Supervised field placements and relevant coursework enable you to be at the forefront of your chosen profession.

The course aims to produce highly qualified scientist practitioners in clinical psychology.

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Why undertake a PhD in Psychology at Flinders

Gain knowledge and understanding of how to tackle complex problems in a way that is systematic and evidence-based.
Work with world-leading researchers to better understand the human mind, brain and behaviour.
Access state-of-the-art research facilities.
Regular contact with your supervisor and access to Flinders University online support tools and resources.

Discover more about research at the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work.

Your career

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) are eligible for registration as psychologists, and qualified to work in a range of mental health settings. They are also well-placed for careers in research, academic and policy settings.

Professional accreditation / recognition

The program meets the requirements for general registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Upon graduating you can become eligible for membership of the College of Clinical Psychologists of the APS after completing post-degree supervision requirements as set out by the college. Completing approved post-degree supervision also allows you to practise as a clinical psychologist as set out by the Psychology Board of Australia.

Potential research supervisors

Flinders University Psychology staff include some of Australia’s most well renowned researchers in their fields. Psychology research at Flinders University is rated above world standard (Excellence in Research for Australia 2018).

Hear from Associate Professor Emma Thomas as she talks about PhD opportunities in Psychology, as well as her own research interests.

Hear from Dr Daniel King as he talks about his research interests in online-gambling and simulated gambling.

Learnwhat to preparebefore approaching a potential research supervisor.

Ready to find the perfect supervisor for your research journey?

Explore Research @ Flinders.

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Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an approved honours degree or fourth-year equivalent qualification with honours class 1 or upper 2A in the field of psychology from a recognised tertiary institution.

Candidates will be chosen based on interview, clinically relevant skills and experience, referee reports, and the ability to pursue doctoral-level research.

Inherent requirements

How to apply

Before applying you MUST download and read thePostgraduate Psychology Application Guide.

Download the guide

Check application timelines in the guide.

Download theClinical Psychology Research Projects documentfor an outline of potential projects and supervisors. You will need to discuss potential projects and have in-principle support from a supervisor before applying.

Find a research supervisor

Apply onlinevia Flinders University.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an approved honours degree or fourth-year equivalent qualification with honours class 1 or upper 2A in the field of psychology from a recognised tertiary institution.

Candidates will be chosen based on interview, clinically relevant skills and experience, referee reports, and the ability to pursue doctoral-level research.

English language requirements

Inherent requirements

How to apply

Before applying you MUST download and read theInternational Postgraduate Psychology Application Guide.

Download the guide

Check application timelines in the guide.

Apply onlinevia Flinders University.

Enquire now

Review answers to regularly asked questions about applying for a higher degree by research(FAQs).

After reviewing the Study HDR web pages and FAQs above, if you still have questions that have not been answered, complete the form. You must provide details about the Reason for your enquiry in the text box 'Ask a question here’.

For queries relating specifically to a project, direct your enquiry to theCollege where you plan to study.