Master of Professional Psychology: Your Pathway to Becoming a Registered Psychologist

The demand for qualified mental health professionals continues to grow, and psychology remains a vital field for making a meaningful impact in peoples lives. If you are passionate about supporting others and are seeking a fast-tracked pathway to registration as a general psychologist, the Master of Professional Psychology at Cairnmillar Institute in Melbourne is an ideal choice.

A Direct Route to General Registration

The Master of Professional Psychology is a one-year, full-time postgraduate course that serves as the fifth year in the 5+1 pathway to general registration as a psychologist in Australia. Upon completion, students are eligible to undertake a one-year internship, after which they can apply for general registration with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).

This streamlined pathway is particularly appealing to psychology graduates who want to enter the workforce quickly while still receiving comprehensive training in applied psychological practice.

Why Study at Cairnmillar?

Cairnmillar Institute is one of Australias most respected centres for psychology education and training. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, our programs are designed and delivered by highly experienced clinicians, researchers, and educators.

Students in the Master of Professional Psychology program benefit from:

• Small class sizes that allow for personalised learning and supervision
• Experienced teaching staff with clinical and industry knowledge
• Practical training through simulated activities and supervised placements
• Strong support throughout the journey toward registration

Our program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), ensuring that your education meets the highest national standards.

A Focus on Practical Skills and Ethical Practice

The Cairnmillar program emphasises real-world skills that prepare students to work in diverse professional settings. Youll gain experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based intervention, and ethical decision-making. The course includes a minimum of 300 hours of supervised practical placement, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in clinical environments.

Career Outcomes and Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Professional Psychology are equipped to complete their sixth-year internship and pursue registration as a general psychologist. This opens doors to employment in schools, mental health clinics, hospitals, private practice, community organisations, and corporate settings.

Psychologists play an essential role in improving mental health outcomes and supporting wellbeing across the lifespan, and there has never been a more important time to enter the profession.

To learn more or to apply for the Master of Professional Psychology, visit:

? https://www.cairnmillar.org.au/course/master-professional-psychology/