Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental)/Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 0100202) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 4 years. This dual qualification combines advanced professional training in educational and developmental psychology with rigorous research training at PhD level. Designed for aspiring psychologist-researchers, the course prepares graduates for registration as a psychologist in Australia, with specialised expertise in child development, learning, and mental health. As a CRICOS-registered course (00004G), it meets strict Australian quality standards under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive a high-quality education and strong legal protections. HeadStart Academy presents this page as a free, independent resource to help you explore your study options in Australia. All data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
This dual-degree program integrates a Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental) with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Students gain the skills to work as a registered psychologist while also contributing original research to the field. The course is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and qualifies graduates for general registration with the Psychology Board of Australia. Over 4 years, you'll undertake coursework, supervised professional placements, and a substantial research thesis. The program is delivered at the Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, a vibrant inner-city suburb with excellent public transport links to Melbourne's universities and research centres. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this program stands out for its integrated research-practitioner model, making it a top choice for students seeking a career in educational and developmental psychology.
Field of education: 090701 Psychology (Society and Culture). At Doctoral Level (AQF Level 10), students develop advanced theoretical and research skills, with a focus on educational and developmental contexts. You'll explore cognitive development, learning difficulties, child and adolescent mental health, assessment and intervention strategies, and research methodology. The dual-qualification structure means you'll complete both a professional master's (including supervised placements) and a PhD thesis. Graduates emerge with expertise to work in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice, as well as in academic or research roles. The course emphasises evidence-based practice and cultural responsiveness, particularly important when working with diverse populations in Australia.
The course is 4 years (208 weeks) full-time on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a dual qualification: upon completion, you receive both a Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental) and a Doctor of Philosophy. This structure allows you to satisfy both professional registration requirements and research training simultaneously, saving time compared to completing separate degrees. Study mode is on-campus at ACU's Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, with some components possibly online (check with ACU). The 208-week duration includes all coursework, placements, and thesis work. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions.
Tuition: A$171,828 (indicative total for 4 years). Non-tuition fees: A$0 (no compulsory additional fees listed on CRICOS). Estimated total: A$171,828. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fees and any additional costs (e.g., materials, field trips), always check directly with Australian Catholic University at www.acu.edu.au. Fees are subject to change and set by the institution. HeadStart Academy displays data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 as a guide only. International students should budget for living expenses in Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$300–500, groceries A$100–150, transport A$40–60. See our OSHC guide for insurance costs.
English proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent, as specified by ACU). Generally, applicants need an Australian Bachelor's degree in psychology (4-year APAC-accredited sequence) with Honours or equivalent, and at least a certain GPA for research component. Some prior experience or a research proposal may be required. Satisfying entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the process is competitive. For specific requirements, consult ACU's website. Foundation/pathway options: Not applicable for this level; refer to ACU for any bridging programs. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 72 weeks, 14 hours per week, totalling approximately 1008 hours. This consists of supervised professional placements in educational and developmental psychology settings, such as schools, child and adolescent mental health services, or disability support organisations. The placements are integrated with coursework and provide hands-on experience with client assessment, intervention, and report writing. This practical training is essential for meeting APAC accreditation requirements and gaining registration as a psychologist. Placements are arranged by the university but may require students to travel. International students must ensure their visa allows work; student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks, subject to conditions.
The course is delivered at Australian Catholic University's Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, Victoria. Fitzroy is an inner-city suburb 2 km north-east of Melbourne's CBD, known for its vibrant culture, cafes, and proximity to universities. Melbourne has a large international student population (over 150,000), with excellent public transport via trams and trains. ACU's campus is near the Fitzroy Gardens and easily accessible. The city offers diverse living options, from inner-city apartments to suburban housing. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, Melbourne is a major study destination. For more on studying in Victoria, see our state guide.
International students on this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (currently A$21,041 per year plus travel), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term (when course is in session), unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also work 48 hours per fortnight. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Psychology), and location (Victoria) to find this course. Use HeadStart Academy's tools to compare options. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ACU's website (www.acu.edu.au) for application forms, entry requirements, English test results, and deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and references. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once ACU issues a CoE, you can lodge your visa application online. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement. For step-by-step visa help, see our student visa guide.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a diverse culture, robust economy, and excellent educational infrastructure. For psychology students, it offers numerous placement opportunities in schools, hospitals, and community clinics. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney: indicative weekly rent A$300–500, groceries A$100–150, transport A$40–60. Melbourne's public transport system (trams, trains, buses) connects all campuses. The city hosts over 150,000 international students, providing a supportive community. However, consider climate (variable) and the competitive nature of psychology programs. HeadStart Academy's guide to studying in Victoria can help you decide.
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Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental)/Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.