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Postgraduate Programs in Applied Social and Organizational Psychology

Introduction

Master of Philosophy (Applied Social and Organizational Psychology)

and

Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Social and Organizational Psychology)

The School of Psychology offers postgraduate programs in Applied Social and Organizational Psychology. Students can complete a MPhil or PhD in this field.

These programs aim to build on the advanced research and communication skills provided by research only degrees. Students will apply their theory and research skills to workplace issues through either application in their own workplace or a research internship in a participating organization or in the School of Psychology and this will form the basis of the thesis. In addition, through completion of a number of specialist courses students will be able to integrate theory, research, and practice relevant to organizational settings.

Graduates of the program will be able to apply their research skills and knowledge of social and organizational psychology to the development of human resources within organizations. Particular strengths of the program are that (a) the research internship will provide graduates with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience, (b) professionals with extensive industry experience will deliver much of the course material, and (c) students are exposed to the fundamental and unique contribution social psychology can make to organizational issues. Also, completion of this program may lead to full membership of the Australian Psychological Society.

Program Structure and Duration

Both Masters (MPhil) and Doctoral (PhD) level programs include two components: formal coursework and original social and organizational research. The Master of Philosophy (Applied Social and Organizational Psychology) is a two year degree and the Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Social and Organizational Psychology) is a three year degree. All programs commence in the first week of March of any given year and coursework is run on a semester basis with breaks for study in line with the university calendar.

All students attend up to 3 hours per week of regular coursework in the first three semesters of the degree. There also may be occasions where students attend one to two day workshops. Check details of the courses offered for further information.

Research Component

In addition to the coursework, students are required to complete original social and organizational empirical research which can take place in an organization as a research internship. The amount of time in the organization will depend on the project but typically the research component would involve 2 - 3 days a week during the program. The empirical research project needs to be approved and supervised by a member of staff in the School of Psychology. It is assessed in the form of a thesis which is submitted for external examination. Students can review examples of staff research interests to get an idea of some of the areas in which research can be conducted.

Entry Requirements

Selection will be based on academic qualifications and referee reports and an interview may be required. The basic entry requirement is Honours 1 or 2A (or equivalent) in Psychology. Applicants are expected to contact the School of Psychology to discuss thesis supervision. Under exceptional circumstances applicants without formal tertiary qualifications in Psychology may be admitted (e.g. because of their relevant workplace experience, or closely related undergraduate study), though appropriate qualifications or experience in research methodology and data analysis are essential.

Fees

Australian applicants

Places in the Masters and PhD (ASOP) are offered on a Commonwealth-funded basis. Scholarships may be available for MPhil and PhD students.

International students

Information on fees for MPhil and PhD programs is available from the Australian National University Fees Information Centre. Scholarships may also be available for international MPhil and PhD students.

Accreditation

The Australian Psychological Society does not accredit research degrees but full membership may be gained by applying for membership on completion of the degree.

Applications for Admission

Applicants are required to lodge forms with the ANU's Student Administration Section. An intake quote of 5 students may apply in any one year. Initial offers of places are typically made in January of any year. All applicants must complete and return the Postgraduate Research Program and/or Scholarship Application forms. To be accompanied by an official transcript of your undergraduate record and mailed to the following address :

Student Records

The Australian National University

Pauline Griffin Building (11)

ANU ACT 0200

More Information

If you are interested in finding out more about this course please contact Michael Platow (email michael.platow@anu.edu.au