Psychology is the science of behaviour and the brain, exploring the complex way humans and other animals interact with the world and each other. Psychology examines the behavioural, perceptual, mental and emotional processes taking place in our brains. Psychologists also address applied topics as diverse as aircraft safety, eye-witness testimony, industrial relations, intellectual disabilities, hyperactivity in children, and other clinical issues. The Department of Psychology at Otago has a highly-regarded teaching programme and is internationally renowned for the strength of its research. The research conducted in the Department of Psychology addresses problems in areas as diverse as sleep disorders, industrial relations, phobias, drug rehabilitation, aircraft safety, hyperactivity in children, how nonhuman animals think, as well as how the brain works. Learn about human behaviour Start a challenging career Develop research skills in the social and behavioural sciences Improve career flexibility with Psychology in your degree
In addition to specialising in Psychology, a degree in Psychology is useful for a wide range of other disciplines as well. Students take Psychology as part of degrees in Law, Commerce, Physical Education, Applied Science, Education, or Health Sciences.
Graduates from the Department of Psychology have gone on to jobs in universities, health and social services, business and industry, safety, communications and planning, and various government agencies. Clinical Psychology graduates have gone on to work in the public health sector, Department of Corrections, or in private practice.
Graduates with appropriate postgraduate qualifications work in research sections of the government, such as the Department of Health, Education, Justice, Social Development, Transport and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. Many of our graduates spend time working overseas, particularly in Australia, the United Kingdom or USA.
