Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) (CRICOS course code 119272K) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute over 3 years 1 month (~160 weeks). This program falls under the field of Behavioural Science (Psychology) and is designed to equip graduates with advanced clinical skills and research expertise for professional practice as registered psychologists. The course includes a substantial work-integrated learning component of 100 weeks (approximately 1500 hours), providing hands-on experience in clinical settings. Delivered at the institute's campus in Hawthorn East, VIC, this qualification is CRICOS-registered, ensuring international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act. With indicative tuition fees of A$194,966, this program represents a significant investment in a high-demand profession. HeadStart Academy presents this course as part of Australia's 26,433 CRICOS-registered courses, helping international students navigate their study options through verified, official data.
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Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) (CRICOS course code 119272K) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute over 3 years 1 month (~160 weeks). This program is classified under the field of Behavioural Science (Psychology) and is designed to produce graduates who are eligible for registration as psychologists with the Psychology Board of Australia. The course combines advanced theoretical knowledge, research training, and extensive supervised clinical practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03530E), international students can be confident that The Cairnmillar Institute meets Australian Government standards for delivering education to overseas students. The program is offered on a full-time basis with English as the language of instruction, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
This doctoral program in clinical psychology covers advanced topics in psychological assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and research methodology. Students engage in coursework covering evidence-based psychotherapies, psychopathology, neuropsychology, and ethical practice. A significant portion of the program is dedicated to a supervised research thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field of clinical psychology. Graduates emerge with the competencies required to work independently as clinical psychologists in health, educational, and private practice settings. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) standards, ensuring graduates meet the educational requirements for general registration.
The Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) has a duration of 3 years 1 month (~160 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The program is delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to dedicate approximately 40 hours per week to their studies, including lectures, seminars, research, and clinical placements. The institute may offer some flexibility in study modes, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fees for the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) are A$194,966, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, professional indemnity insurance, and travel to placement sites. The estimated total cost is A$194,966, but this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current and exact fees, always refer to The Cairnmillar Institute's website. HeadStart Academy provides fee data for guidance only; fees are set by institutions and subject to change.
Entry into this doctoral program typically requires completion of a bachelor's degree with honours in psychology or equivalent, as well as a master's degree in clinical psychology or a related field with a strong research component. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; the recommended IELTS score is 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Additional requirements may include relevant work experience, referee reports, and an interview. Some applicants may need to complete a pre-registration program or pathway course; contact The Cairnmillar Institute for specific entry criteria. International students should also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 100 weeks, with 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 1500 hours. This placement provides students with supervised clinical experience in settings such as hospitals, community health centres, and private practices. The work component is an integral part of the program, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts under the guidance of registered psychologists. This hands-on training is essential for developing the competencies required for professional registration and employment in clinical psychology.
The Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) is delivered at The Cairnmillar Institute's campus in Hawthorn East, Victoria. Hawthorn East is a suburb of Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Melbourne is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community and excellent public transport connections. The campus is accessible by train, tram, and bus, making it convenient for students living in and around Melbourne. The city consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, with a diverse culture, strong economy, and high-quality education infrastructure.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and permits work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered course like this one. You will also need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$25,000 per year), and travel. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including refund policies and course quality guarantees. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice.
Melbourne is Australia's leading city for education, hosting over 200,000 international students from 160 countries. It offers a strong job market for psychologists, with many hospitals, universities, and private clinics. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to other global cities; indicative weekly expenses may include rent A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. The city's multicultural atmosphere and extensive support services for international students make it an attractive destination. However, consider the rigorous nature of a doctoral program and the need for self-discipline and research support. HeadStart Academy's resources can help you weigh these factors.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) at The Cairnmillar Institute:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (doctoral degree), field (behavioural science), and location (Victoria) to find this course. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered for your protection.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), resume, and supporting documents. Submit your application via The Cairnmillar Institute's admissions portal. Pay attention to application deadlines and any prerequisite requirements.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the institute will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement before applying.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy, then contact The Cairnmillar Institute for application details.
Doctor of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Cairnmillar Institute. 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.