We might still have a shortage of qualified psychologists to take care of the mental issues of all people from and living in South Africa. However, we can’t deny that mental health has become a topic we no longer shy from discussing.
This has dramatically improved how we view and treat people struggling with one mental health issue or another.
However, as we continue to see that everyone’s psychological needs are met, we must consider how best to train more psychologists to fill the gap.
This is why our article will focus on Psychology Courses in South Africa and where you can access them.
The article will also look at all the requirements you are expected to meet to be able to take any of the Psychology Courses in South Africa, the cost of studying Psychology Courses in South Africa, and so much more.
Table of contents
- What Is Psychology?
- How many years to study psychology in South Africa?
- How much does psychology cost in South Africa?
- Is Psychology in demand in South Africa?
- What subject do I need to study Psychology?
- What do I need to study psychology in South Africa?
- Does psychology require Maths?
- What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychologist?
- What type of person is best suited for a psychologist?
- Which psychology course earns the most?
- What type of psychologist makes the most money in South Africa?
- Types of psychology courses in South Africa
- 6 Hardest Courses in Psychology
- 1. Advanced Statistical Methods: The Mathematical Backbone of Psychology
- 2. Neuropsychology: The Brain’s Intricacies Unveiled
- 3. Developmental Psychology: Spanning the Human Lifespan
- 4. Psychopathology: The Study of Mental Disorders
- 5. Cognitive Psychology: Delving into Mental Processes
- 6. Experimental Psychology: Design and Analysis of Psychological Research
- Universities that offer psychology courses in South Africa
- Best 10 Psychology Courses in South Africa
- #1. Enhancing Mental Health
- #2. Emotional Intelligence Workshop – Self about Others
- #3. Trauma-sensitive Mindfulness for the Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- #4. Neurodevelopmental Disorders – Early Diagnosis and Intervention
- #5. Domains of Psychology
- #6. Effective Crisis and Trauma Management
- #7. Childhood Disorders – Causes, Symptoms, Misdiagnosis and Psychotherapeutic Treatment Modalities
- #8. Intro to Crisis and Trauma
- What is the state of child psychology courses in South Africa?
- FAQs: Psychology Courses in South Africa
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendation
What Is Psychology?
The British Psychological Society (BPS) defines psychology as ‘the scientific study of the mind and how it dictates and influences our behavior, from communication and memory to thought and emotion.
It is dedicated to studying human behavior – and its thoughts, feelings, and motivations – through observation, measurement, and testing to form conclusions based on sound scientific methodology.’
Read Also: Best 15 Medicine Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements
What do Psychologists do?
Professionals who research and analyze human behavior, emotions, and thought processes are known as psychologists.
Psychologists apply their expertise to assist people in comprehending and overcoming obstacles in their lives.
They can work in various places, such as government agencies, enterprises, schools, research institutes, and clinical and counseling offices.
How many years to study psychology in South Africa?
A Bachelor of Psychology (BPsych) is a professional qualification (four years) that gives students a theoretical and practical understanding of Psychology.
This is achieved through a 720-hour supervised practicum whereby HPCSA-registered Psychologists will monitor the students.
How much does psychology cost in South Africa?
Standard session cash rates
- R1100 per 60 minute consultation.
- R1500 per 90 minute consultation.
- R1900 per 120 minute consultation.
- Special discounted rates for sessions of 10 or more, for students and pensioners, or at the discretion of the psychologist. Please inquire from the psychologist concerned.
Is Psychology in demand in South Africa?
Did you know that there are only 2.75 psychologists for every 100,000 people in SA? This makes psychology an in-demand career. So, if you’re looking for a job where you can help the emotional well-being of others, psychology is the way to go.
What subject do I need to study Psychology?
Depending on the university, CCC and AAB may have different admission requirements. While not often necessary, an A in high school psychology is a plus. Math, statistics, sociology, anthropology, economics, politics, philosophy, and history are additional crucial subjects.
Read Also: Best 10 Payroll Courses in South Africa| Cost and Requirements
What do I need to study psychology in South Africa?
To register for psychology modules, you must have a level 4 in English (Home or Additional Language), a level 3 or 4 in math or math literacy, and a level 4 in any other subject (except life orientation).
Does psychology require Maths?
Because psychology relies heavily on data analysis and research techniques, math is frequently required in undergraduate programs.
More complex mathematical abilities may be required for graduate-level coursework, particularly for those seeking specializations like quantitative psychology or neuropsychology.
What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychologist?
A clinical psychologist is a professional who focuses on clinical psychology. Registered psychologists, sometimes called “general” psychologists, are licensed mental health practitioners who can work in any area of psychology that falls within their scope of practice and offer counselling and therapy.
What type of person is best suited for a psychologist?
Here are six important traits that psychology students need to have:
- Patience. Experienced psychologists know that making a breakthrough can take a very long time. …
- Empathy. Empathy is the ability to recognize and respond to what another person is feeling. …
- Ethics. …
- Trustworthiness. …
- Communication skills. …
- Open-mindedness.
Read Also: List of Rostec College Courses and fees | Fee Structures
Which psychology course earns the most?
What is the most lucrative area in psychology? The highest earning potential in psychology is usually found in clinical psychology, psychiatry, and industrial-organizational psychology. However, things like experience and geography might affect salary.3.
What type of psychologist makes the most money in South Africa?
Careers in psychology that demand the greatest experience and a doctorate are often the ones with the highest wages.
Among the best examples are psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, industrial-organizational psychologists, engineering psychologists, and marketing managers.
Types of psychology courses in South Africa
Psychology is a very broad field of study with extensive courses in all of its niches and below a some of the types of psychology courses in South Africa.
- Industrial psychology
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Educational psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Health psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Social psychology
- Organisational Psychology
- Psychometrics
- Psychopathology
- Research psychology
- Social work
- Sport psychology
- Behavioral neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Community psychology
- Counselor
- Domains of psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Personality psychology
- Psychology
6 Hardest Courses in Psychology
Psychology courses frequently include a variety of academic fields, including statistics, philosophy, and biology. Due to their interdisciplinary character, some classes may be especially challenging.
The most challenging courses include information, sophisticated statistical analysis, and applying theory to real-world scenarios.
1. Advanced Statistical Methods: The Mathematical Backbone of Psychology
This is one of the most difficult courses because advanced statistical techniques are essential for processing data in psychological research.
For students without a strong background in mathematics, the learning curve can be challenging because it requires utilizing statistical tools and comprehending intricate ideas.
2. Neuropsychology: The Brain’s Intricacies Unveiled
Neuropsychology is a challenging course because it focuses on the biological functions of the brain and how they affect behavior and thought.
It necessitates knowledge of complex neuroanatomy and neurological conditions, which might be difficult for people unfamiliar with biological sciences.
3. Developmental Psychology: Spanning the Human Lifespan
This course, which covers developmental stages from infancy to old age, can be challenging because it requires students to understand a broad range of developmental theories and empirical results throughout an individual’s life.
Read Also: List of Tshwane South College Courses | Fee Structure
4. Psychopathology: The Study of Mental Disorders
The study of psychopathology looks at the origins and progression of mental illnesses.
The requirement to comprehend intricate diagnostic standards, various therapeutic modalities, and the most recent mental health research makes it difficult.
5. Cognitive Psychology: Delving into Mental Processes
Higher-order brain processes, including learning, memory, and problem-solving, are examined by cognitive psychology.
The abstract nature of cognitive processes and the extensive experimental techniques utilized to explore them can make the course challenging..
6. Experimental Psychology: Design and Analysis of Psychological Research
Students in this demanding course must plan, carry out, and evaluate psychological studies.
The difficulty is being creative in research design while still following stringent research procedures and ethical standards.
Universities that offer psychology courses in South Africa
Whether you’re interested in clinical psychology, counselling psychology, industrial psychology courses in South Africa, or research psychology, below are the accredited programs from top universities like the University of Cape Town, the University of Pretoria, and the University of the Western Cape.
You’ll receive a world-class education that will kickstart your career in the fascinating field of psychology.
Explore the comprehensive list of programs now and embark on your journey toward becoming a trusted mental health professional! The Psychological Society of South Africa compiles the list – PsySSA.
Universities that offer psychology courses in South Africa
| Walter Sisulu University | Mthatha | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| University of Witwatersrand | Johannesburg | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of Witwatersrand | Johannesburg | MA Community-based Counselling | Counselling Psychology |
| University of Witwatersrand | Johannesburg | MA Industrial / Organisational Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of Witwatersrand | Johannesburg | MA Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| University of Venda | Thohoyandou | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| University of the Western Cape | Cape Town | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of the Western Cape | Cape Town | MA Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of the Western Cape | Cape Town | MA Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| University of the Free State | Bloemfontein | M SocSci Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of the Free State | Bloemfontein | M SocSci Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of South Africa | Pretoria | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of South Africa | Pretoria | MCom industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of South Africa | Pretoria | MA Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| University of Pretoria | Pretoria | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of Pretoria | Pretoria | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of Pretoria | Pretoria | MA Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of Pretoria | Pretoria | MA Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| University of Limpopo | Polokwane | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of Limpopo | Polokwane | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Durban | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Pietermaritzburg | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Durban | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Pietermaritzburg | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Durban | MA Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of KwaZulu Natal | Pietermaritzburg | MA Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| University of Johannesburg | Johannesburg | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of Johannesburg | Johannesburg | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of Johannesburg | Johannesburg | MA Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of Fort Hare | East London | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| University of Fort Hare | East London | MA Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of Cape Town | Cape Town | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| University of Cape Town | Cape Town | MA / MSoSci / MSc Industrial and Organisational Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| University of Cape Town | Cape Town | MA in Neuropsychology | Neuro-Psychology |
| Stellenbosch University | Stellenbosch | MA Clinical Psychology and Community Counselling | Clinical Psychology |
| Stellenbosch University | Stellenbosch | MA Clinical and Community Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| Stellenbosch University | Stellenbosch | MComm industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| Stellenbosch University | Stellenbosch | B.Ed Educational Psychology | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| South African College of Applied Psychology | Cape Town | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| South African College of Applied Psychology | Johannesburg | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| Sefako Makgatho University | Ga-Rankuwa | MSc Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| Rhodes University | Grahamstown | MA Counselling Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| Rhodes University | Grahamstown | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| North-West University | Mafikeng | MA / M SocSci Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | MA / MSc / M SocSci Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | MA / MSc Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| North-West University | Vaal Triangle | MA / MCom Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | MA / MCom Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | MA / MSc Research Psychology | Research Psychology |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | BA / BCom Honours Industrial and Psychology | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| North-West University | Vaal Triangle | B Psych | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| North-West University | Potchefstroom | BSc Honours in Psychology | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| Nelson Mandela University | Port Elizabeth | MA Clinical Psychology | Clinical Psychology |
| Nelson Mandela University | Port Elizabeth | MA Counselling Psychology | Counselling Psychology |
| Nelson Mandela University | Port Elizabeth | MA / MCom Industrial Psychology | Industrial Psychology |
| Nelson Mandela University | Port Elizabeth | BA / BCom Honours Industrial and Organisational Psychology | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| Nelson Mandela University | Port Elizabeth | B Psych (Phased out) | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
| Cornerstone Institute | Cape Town | BA Honours in Psychology | Accredited B Psych / Honours |
Read Also: Top 10 Paralegal Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements
Best 10 Psychology Courses in South Africa
#1. Enhancing Mental Health
The Enhancing Mental Health short course examines mental health in a personal, community, and workplace context. Improve your mental health and learn about the mind-body connection and how it affects your well-being.
Mental health encompasses your emotional, psychological, and social well-being and influences your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
#2. Emotional Intelligence Workshop – Self about Others
Enhancing assertiveness, conflict, and stress management skills is the main goal of the University of South Africa’s (UNISA) Emotional Intelligence Workshop: Self about Others.
This is achieved by evaluating present competencies, identifying areas for development, and practicing the skills, methods, and tools needed for skill development.
#3. Trauma-sensitive Mindfulness for the Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The goal of this program, Trauma-sensitive Mindfulness for the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is to give psychologists the skills they need to comprehend how to treat PTSD with trauma-sensitive mindfulness.
#4. Neurodevelopmental Disorders – Early Diagnosis and Intervention
The Neurodevelopmental Disorders workshop explores the criteria for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and dyslexia.
#5. Domains of Psychology
Explore the core schools of thought in psychology. Understand the biological and neuropsychological functioning of the human mind and body.
Read Also: Top 15 Courses that Don’t Require Maths | Cost and Requirements
#6. Effective Crisis and Trauma Management
Learn in-depth how trauma and crisis affect human behavior, both for the person experiencing the crisis and for the counselor offering help. This Effective Crisis and Trauma Management course will grow your understanding of crisis and trauma management.
#7. Childhood Disorders – Causes, Symptoms, Misdiagnosis and Psychotherapeutic Treatment Modalities
This workshop on Childhood Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, Misdiagnosis, and Psychotherapeutic Treatment Modalities aims to give educators, social workers, and mental health professionals the skills they need to identify and comprehend the psychological disorders that are common in South Africa.
#8. Intro to Crisis and Trauma
In addition to creating difficulties at home and work, the impacts of traumatic events lay a significant strain on people, families, and communities. The Intro to Crisis and Trauma course will teach you the fundamentals of crisis and trauma vocabulary and concepts.
#9. Symptoms of Crisis and Trauma
The individual who has experienced trauma may become confused and lonely if their immediate or delayed symptoms are ignored.
To assist persons who have gone through crises and trauma in their lives, this course on the symptoms of crisis and trauma will help you better grasp the short-term and long-term impacts of trauma.
#10. Crisis Interventions
While some people will struggle more and suffer from traumatic stress reactions, many survivors of terrible events will go on with their lives without any long-term detrimental repercussions. In this Crisis Interventions course, you will learn how to utilize different approaches and intervention tactics in crisis and trauma situations.
Read Also: 15 Best Cyber Security Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements
What is the state of child psychology courses in South Africa?
Children born in Mzanzi have never had it better when it comes to mental health issues than in the present-day South Africa.
This progress can be attributed to the rapid development of child psychology courses in South Africa and the schools that offer the course.
Some of the schools that offer child psychology courses in South Africa include:
- Skills AcademyOffers a variety of child psychology courses, including:
- Child Psychology Short Course: A 4-month course
- Child Psychology Certificate Course: An 8-month course that provides a basic introduction to child psychology
- Child Psychology Comprehensive Course: A 12-month course that covers a wide range of topics, such as child development and communication strategies
- SACAP offers a four-year Bachelor of Psychology Degree that is accredited by HPCSA. This degree can lead to a Master’s degree in psychology.
- The Blackford Center offers child psychology courses.
- Unisa Offers a Psychology of Education and Child Development course.
- The University of the Free State offers a DPsych program with a specialization in child psychology. This program includes coursework and a thesis or three publishable articles.
FAQs: Psychology Courses in South Africa
Matric: A Matric certificate or equivalent is typically required.
Subjects: While not always mandatory, subjects like Life Sciences and Mathematics can be beneficial.
University Entrance: Meeting the specific university’s minimum admission requirements.
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology, Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology.
Postgraduate: Honours in Psychology, Master’s degrees in Clinical, Counselling, or Research Psychology, Doctorate in Psychology (PhD).
Undergraduate degree (3 years)
Honours degree (1-2 years)
Master’s degree (1-2 years)
Internship (1 year)
Community service (1 year, for Clinical Psychology)
University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of Stellenbosch (SU)
(UP) University of Pretoria
University of Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Clinical Psychologist
Counselling Psychologist
Educational Psychologist
Industrial/Organizational Psychologist
Research Psychologist
Academic Positions
Social Work
Human Resources
Marketing Research
And more.
Conclusion
Psychologists take a different approach from surgeons, but their work is essentially the same—providing solutions to problems in different capacities.
There are many Psychology Courses in South Africa, and we have highlighted the best of them. We have also listed the best schools that offer different Psychology Courses in South Africa.
So, if you are interested in helping people improve and overcome their psychological issues, get started with any of the Psychology Courses in South Africa.
Remember, you might be the voice that gives someone a reason to live despite whatever mental issue they are battling.
References
- learn.org – What Are the Hardest Courses in Psychology?
- www.psyssa.com – Accredited Training Institutions
- www.shortcoursesportal.com – Short courses in Clinical Psychology in South Africa
- www.northumbria.ac.uk – Northumbria Universit Castle
- www.sacap.edu.za – Fields of Psychology – Which should I choose?
Recommendation
