How do I become a school psychologist
Get qualified to work as a school psychologist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to School Psychologist.
Common questions
The average salary for School Psychologists is $89,284 per annum. These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.
Courses.com.au Team
There are no clear employment figures for School Psychologists working in Australia. Increase your employability by obtaining supporting qualifications in education and counselling.
Courses.com.au Team
To become a School Psychologist you must complete a Bachelor’s degree in psychology that has been approved by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Examples include: Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Psychological Science, and Bachelor of Science (Psychology). Once you have your degree, the next steps to registration with APAC involve:
- Completing an approved master’s degree such as the Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology or Master of Psychology (Counselling).
- Undertaking a one-year internship,
- Passing the National Psychology Exam.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
How To Become a Primary School Teacher in Australia
24th September 2022
What is the Difference Between a Psychologist and Psychiatrist?
25th October 2022All school psychologist courses
School Psychologist careers
School Psychologists are qualified professionals who work at high schools, primary schools, colleges, universities, and some early childhood centres. They are registered with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and provide counselling, mentoring and support to students as well as psychological advice to teachers and parents.
As a School Psychologist you could be providing grief counselling and therapy after the sudden death of a teacher, meeting with a new student to help them transition into the school culture, conducting an educational session for teachers about eating disorders, meeting with the parents of a child with behavioural problems, writing up notes and student files after a counselling session, mentoring a student who is struggling with their academic work, preparing a report for the school board, or attending professional development training to keep your APAC registration up-to-date.
