Mental health is one of Australia’s most important – and fastest growing – sectors. As awareness of mental wellbeing rises, so does the need for professionals who understand how people think, feel and behave.
But it’s not just psychologists and counsellors supporting others through their careers. From human resources to sport and justice, psychological knowledge is becoming essential across a wide range of industries.
If you’re ready to make a real difference, studying psychology could be your next step. And with flexible entry options at Chisholm – including diploma-to-degree pathways – it’s never been easier to get started.
The growing need for mental health professionals
From schools and workplaces to hospitals and community centres, mental health is now part of everyday conversation. And as awareness grows, so does demand for skilled professionals who support individuals and communities.
Right now, Australia has a 32% shortfall in mental health workers compared to national targets. That gap is expected to grow unless more people enter the sector – meaning strong opportunities for those with the right skills.
And it’s not just healthcare roles that provide support through psychology. Professionals like community workers, teachers, personal trainers, HR managers and lawyers (to name a few) all draw on psychological knowledge to improve wellbeing, build stronger connections and support better outcomes.
Where can a psychology degree take you?
A psychology degree builds deep insight into human behaviour – a skill that’s valuable in any role that involves helping or working closely with people.
And a career supporting others in mental health can be extremely rewarding in many ways. Especially for those who want to make an impact in their role and meaningful change in the community.
Here are just a few career areas where a Bachelor of Psychology can take you:
Mental health and community support
Work in case management, peer support or mental health liaison roles – helping people navigate services and build independence.
Justice and corrections
Support rehabilitation programs, assist with reintegration, or provide victim advocacy and crisis response services.
Human resources and workplace wellbeing
Use your understanding of motivation, behaviour and communication to improve workplace culture, engagement and mental health.
Youth work and education
Support the development and wellbeing of children and young people through mentoring, program delivery or outreach roles.
Sport and performance
Apply psychological principles to coaching, leadership, team dynamics and athlete wellbeing.
How do you become a registered psychologist?
While you’ll need to complete an undergraduate qualification, which can include a Bachelor of Psychology, you’ll also need to complete postgraduate studies to become a registered psychologist.
There are different pathways that can be used to achieve your postgraduate qualifications. More information can be found on the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) website.
The pathways into psychology just got easier at Chisholm
Chisholm’s Bachelor of Psychology is now more accessible than ever – with new diploma-to-degree pathways designed for people-focused careers.
If you’ve completed a relevant diploma, you could step straight into second year and finish your degree in just two years. It’s a clear, supported transition into higher education. And it’s a smart way to build on the experience you already have.
You can now pathway into a Chisholm Bachelor of Psychology from diplomas in:
- health
- community and social services
- human resources (new)
- justice (new)
- sport and exercise (new).
Whether you’re starting out or ready to level up your career, these new entry points give you the flexibility to take the next step, faster.
Read more about pathways to degrees at Chisholm here.
“The pathway has helped me decide where I’m going next in my career, as well as giving me tools to use in my current job.”JessieCertificate IV in Mental Health, Diploma of Counselling and Bachelor of Psychology student
Why study psychology at Chisholm?
Our APAC-accredited Bachelor of Psychology is practical, purposeful and designed with people in mind.
You’ll learn in small classes from experienced educators in modern facilities, with hands-on experience and job-ready skills built into every stage. All of our courses are developed in consultation with industry, so you can be confident your learning is aligned with workforce needs.
Whether you’re stepping up from a diploma, changing careers or starting fresh, you’ll be supported to succeed from day one.
Ready to build a career that makes a difference in mental health or beyond? Discover how a Bachelor of Psychology at Chisholm can help you take the next step.