Did you know, in SA there are only 2.75 psychologists for every 100 000 people? This makes it 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. Here we’ll break down the exact steps to becoming a psychologist in South Africa, from choosing the right subjects to registering with the HPCSA.
Steps to Becoming a Psychologist in South Africa
Becoming a psychologist takes time and effort, but it is a rewarding career that is worth the journey. While the process may seem complex, it should not stop you from reaching your goals. With the right preparation and dedication, you can go far. Here are the steps to become a psychologist in South Africa:
- Have the correct matric subjects
- Think about the type of psychology you want to study
- Choose your tertiary institution
- Meet the entry requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree
- Apply for an Honours Degree
- Gain entry into a Master’s Degree
- Complete your internship
- Register with the HPCSA
Have the Correct Matric Subjects
Choosing the right matric subjects is one of the first steps to becoming a psychologist in South Africa, as strong results help you qualify for university entry. While there are no specific subjects you must take to become a psychologist. Life Sciences can be very helpful, especially when learning how the human brain works. It’s also a good idea to aim for strong marks in Maths or Maths Literacy, as many higher education institutions list this as part of their entry requirements.
Think About the Type of Psychology you Want to Study
There are many different types of psychology to choose from. To help you decide, think about your personality and what you hope to achieve in your career. In South Africa, you can become professionally registered in the following areas:
- Clinical psychologist
- Counselling psychologist
- Research psychologist
- Neuropsychologist
- Forensic psychologist
- Registered counsellor
- Psychometrist
- Educational psychologist
- Industrial psychologist
Choose Your Tertiary Institution
This is an important step. You can only qualify as a psychologist if you study through an accredited institution. That’s why it’s important to do proper research before you apply. Make sure the college or university you choose is recognised and meets the necessary requirements.
Meet the Entry Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree
To get into a bachelor’s degree programme, you must meet certain academic requirements in your matric results. This is called a Bachelor’s Pass. A Bachelor’s Degree is a type of tertiary qualification you qualify for after passing matric with a Bachelor pass. With this pass, you can apply for university degree courses and take the next step in your education.
To study a Bachelor’s Degree, you need at least:
- 40% for your Home Language
- 50% for four other subjects excluding Life Orientation
- 30% for two other subjects.
This is known as a Bachelor’s Pass. However, it is only the minimum requirement. Keep in mind that admission requirements can differ between institutions, so it’s important to check what each one needs before you apply.
Apply for an Honours Degree
Once you graduate with a bachelor’s degree and Psychology as a major, the next step is to earn an honours degree. However, getting into an honours programme is not easy. You must have excellent academic results to be considered. This means you need to work hard and stay focused. If you are accepted into a BPsych degree, the honours level is included. As a result, you won’t need to apply for honours separately.
Gain Entry Into a Master’s Degree
Gaining admission into a master’s degree is one of the most important steps to becoming a psychologist in South Africa, and it’s highly competitive. The selection process for the master’s degree is even more competitive, so you need to be well prepared. But don’t worry, it is challenging, not impossible. The programme includes both practical and theory components. In addition, you will need to complete and submit a thesis.
Complete Your Internship
After you graduate with your master’s degree, you must complete 720 hours—or six months—of full-time internship, or 12 months if you choose to work part-time. During this time, you may work in hospitals, schools, or community settings. This step is one of the most important in your career journey. It gives you hands-on experience in the field, which also looks impressive on your CV.
Register With the HPCSA
Registering with the HPCSA is one of the final steps to becoming a psychologist in South Africa. It ensures you are qualified to work with patients and provide safe, professional care. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) is there to make sure the public is protected. So to prove that patients will be in good hands with you, you have to register with the HPCSA. But not so fast! You have to pass their board exams first.
Becoming a psychologist takes dedication, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you’d like personal guidance on your study journey, call us. We’ll reach out to help you take the next step.
How Many Years To Study Psychology In South Africa?
It takes about five to six years to complete the steps to becoming a psychologist in South Africa. Students start with a bachelor’s degree, then move on to honours and a master’s. After that, they pursue postgraduate studies, which include honours and master’s degrees.
What Subjects Are Needed To Become A Psychologist In South Africa?
Students need a strong academic background to study psychology. Universities often require subjects that develop critical thinking and communication skills. These subjects also help prepare students for the science and theory behind psychology.
Subjects needed to study psychology:
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Life Sciences (Biology)
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language)
- Life Orientation
High School Requirements For Psychology In South Africa
Students must achieve good marks in specific high school subjects to qualify. Most universities set a minimum admission point score (APS). Meeting these requirements is key to being accepted into a psychology program.
Skills Academy is the word support in every way.
Step Into Your Future With us
Our college does not offer a path to becoming a registered psychologist. But with our Child Psychology Courses, you can gain insight into the field. We also offer a range of other courses for all your study needs. To get started, simply contact our course experts. You can:
- WhatsApp us on: 0070 4381 926
- Fill out our contact form and we’ll call you back
Got questions about your course options? Contact a Tutor and get the answers you need today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, psychology is a rewarding career. It allows professionals to help people improve their mental well-being. It also offers many opportunities in different work settings.
The HPCSA recognises many board psychology fields. Some include clinical, counseling, educational, and industrial psychology. Each field focuses on unique human behaviour and challenges.
