Chances of getting into Australian or UK grad psych program

[stj1820]

Hi I am interested in attending grad psychology programs in either the UK or Australia.  My grades in psych are very good however for a while I was an engineering major and those grades are fairly low.  I spoke to someone in the University of Melbourne Psych Dept. last week and they mentioned that despite US university degrees being 4 yrs, students who want to apply to grad programs in Australia usually still have to complete a psychology honors year.  This is mainly because most US undergraduate psychology programs do not meet of the APA requirements for a 4th year.  A honors year is not a big deal for me because I enjoy psych and would welcome the opportunity improve on my writing especially academic writing.  However, assuming I complete the honors year with fairly good grades, what effect will the poor grades in my non psychology related subjects have on my chances of getting into a Australian or UK psych grad program? 

 

I should point out that I am aware that typical Australian and UK undergraduate psychology programs are more focused on psychology courses with fewer classes from other subjects.

[PsychGirl1]

I talked to a professor a few years ago about possibly applying to programs abroad, and he said to be careful- they tend to have less funds and research opportunities available compared to universities in the US. No idea if it's true or not, but it's something to research. Also, make sure other opportunities (ex. NIH grants or the equivalent for other countries, funding or scholarships at the school, etc.) won't be hampered by you being an international student.

 

I studied abroad at a university in Australia and the culture is very different, especially with their universities and the way their educational system is set up. Definitely a great experience, but something to consider! Try your best to get a feel of the department and campus.

 

PS despite all my "check into this first" warnings, I would be infinitely jealous if you went to Australia for grad school.