Frequently Asked Questions
Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Topics in psychology range from the biological bases of behaviour, the nature of cognition (thought), the development of behaviour and the psychology of social behaviour through to applications in such areas as mental health and the understanding of behaviour in industry, education, and other applied settings.
Becoming a full-fledged psychologist requires advanced training to at least the Masters level in a programme specifically for professional psychology. Along these lines, NUS offers two Master of Psychology (Clinical) programmes that provide entry-level training for graduates who are seeking to become professional clinical psychologists. The honours programme in psychology is important preparation for entering these kinds of programmes.
A graduate degree (i.e. a Master or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) is required to become a practising psychologist in Singapore. Graduates with a B.Soc.Sci. (Hons) or B.A. may be employed in settings that require individuals who can think logically, express themselves clearly in writing and speech, apply quantitative analysis to data, and apply knowledge of human behaviour to solve problems. Hence, prospective employers include various branches of the Singapore civil service, private businesses, and non-governmental organizations, among others.
More information about Psychology as a career can be found here: http://www.apa.org/education/undergrad/psych-career.aspx
The NUS Department of Psychology offers a wide range of undergraduate courses in psychology, including advanced seminar courses taught by domain specialists. In addition, students have the opportunity to conduct high-quality psychological research with leading experts through lab modules, independent study modules, and the Honours thesis. This combination of theoretical and practical training places students in an excellent position to pursue psychology at the graduate and professional level.
The NUS Department of Psychology offers a wide range of undergraduate courses in psychology, including advanced seminar courses taught by domain specialists. In addition, students have the opportunity to conduct high-quality psychological research with leading experts through lab modules, independent study modules, and the Honours thesis. This combination of theoretical and practical training places students in an excellent position to pursue psychology at the graduate and professional level.
Clinical psychologists are specialists in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological problems and mental illnesses. Most clinical psychology programmes use a scientist-practitioner approach, with rigorous academic and research training at academic institutions as well as extensive supervised clinical training in clinical settings. Psychiatrists are medical doctors with specialised postgraduate training in the study and treatment of mental illnesses, emotional disturbances, and abnormal behaviour. In Singapore, clinical psychologists cannot prescribe medications, whereas psychiatrists can.
Psychology graduates are employed in various settings which include MINDEF, MCYS, MOE, MOH, ITE, SPRING Singapore, a number of voluntary social service organisations, as well as in consultancy firms and research organisations.