BA/BSc/BSocSci Honours in Psychology.
Before we explain more about the Honours programmes, please note that there are no HPCSA accredited Honours programmes in South Africa. What this means is that even with an Honours degree, you cannot register or practice as a Psychologist, Registered Counsellor, or Psychometrist. Do not confuse accredited with recognized though; all Honours degrees in Psychology are recognized by tertiary institutions and you will be able to use these degrees to apply for Master’s programmes at HPCSA accredited universities around South Africa. Please read below for more information on BPsych programmes which are 4 year programmes that will allow you to register as a Registered Counsellor or Psychometrist.
Students in their honours year will typically be completing their 4th year of full-time study. Students may also opt to study their honours part-time through a distance learning institution like the University of South Africa (UNISA).
A BA Honours in Psychology is an NQF level 8 qualification that is recognised by SAQA. These qualifications build on the theoretical knowledge attained at an undergraduate level and incorporate a research project that requires the student to investigate a psychological topic. The content of the modules are different from institution to institution, but generally students will explore the topics from undergrad in greater depth in order to prepare them for a Masters level training.
Some of the topics covered at an Honours level are as follows;
- Abnormal psychology.
- Social psychology.
- Community psychology.
- Health psychology.
- Systemic psychology.
- Developmental psychology.
- Social research.
- Psychological assessment.
It is important to note that completing a BA Honours in Psychology will not allow an individual to practice as a Psychologist or Counsellor. It is of critical importance that students understand the difference between academic and professional programmes at an Honours level; students that are interested in studying to become a Registered Counsellor or Psychometrist should read this article.
A list of accredited universities and programs can be found here.
BA/BCom Honours in Industrial / Organisational Psychology.
Similar to a BA Honours in Psychology, students studying towards an Honours degree in Industrial Psychology will also typically be completing their 4th year of full-time study. These degrees are recognised by SAQA as a NQF level 8 qualification.
Those students studying Industrial Psychology at an Honours level can expect modules focused in the following areas;
- Career psychology.
- Labour relations.
- Human Resource Management.
- Change management.
- Performance management.
- Leadership development.
- Financial management.
- Employee relations.
- Talent management.
- Diversity management.
However, unlike the BA Honours in Psychology, many universities around South Africa do include a practical internship as part of their program. Be certain to research which universities have accredited programs and internships that will allow the individual to register with the HPCSA. Students that successfully complete their Honours degree, internship with an accredited institution, and pass the HPCSA board exam can register professionally as a Psychometrist.
A list of accredited universities and programs can be found here.
In order to register as an Industrial Psychologist, students will need a Masters level qualification. Click here for more information.