You've completed a 1-year Masters, now what?

Let's look at the next steps to completing your psychology journey

Your Registration Pathway

5+1 Internship

The 5+1 pathway involves completing a five-year accredited psychology degree (typically a three-year undergraduate degree plus a one-year honours/graduate diploma) followed by a one-year supervised internship. The internship requires at least 1,500 hours of supervised practice, including psychological assessments, interventions, supervision and professional development. While completing the internship, interns must pass the National Psychology Exam to become a general psychologist.

Clinical Masters (or Other Endorsement) Pathway

To gain area of practice endorsement, psychologists must first achieve general registration (via a Master's, 5+1, or PhD pathway). They then complete an approved postgraduate degree in an endorsement area (e.g., clinical, forensic, educational psychology) and a two-year registrar program with supervised practice in that specialisation. At the end of the Clinical (or other endorsement-focused Masters course), you will be registered as a general psychologist until having completed the registrar program (after which you may refer to yourself as Clinical/Health/Forensic/Etc. Psychologist.

Masters + PhD / Doctorate

Combined Master’s/PhD

This integrated program allows candidates to complete a research-focused PhD alongside a Master’s in Clinical Psychology (or another endorsement area). It provides both advanced research skills and clinical training, enabling graduates to register as general psychologists and pursue endorsement via the two-year registrar program. This pathway is ideal for those interested in both clinical practice and academic research.

Doctorate (e.g., DPsych)

A Doctor of Psychology (DPsych) is a three to four-year professional doctorate that integrates advanced clinical training with research. Unlike the combined PhD/Master’s, the DPsych focuses more on applied practice while still requiring a research component. Graduates can typically register as general psychologists upon completion and are eligible for endorsement after fulfilling the two-year registrar program.

5+1 Internship Pathway

The Provisional Psychologist Resource Centre (PPRC) is a dedicated support hub for provisional psychologists undertaking the 5+1 internship pathway. Designed to bridge the gap between university and full registration, PPRC provides essential resources, professional guidance, and a supportive community to help interns navigate the challenges of their supervised practice year.

With a focus on minimising stress and maximising success, PPRC offers access to study materials, case study guidance, National Psychology Exam preparation, and practical tools for assessment and intervention. Whether you need clarity on internship requirements, professional development opportunities, or a space to connect with peers, PPRC ensures you have the support to confidently progress toward general registration.

Secure an Approved Work Role

Your internship must be completed in a role that meets AHPRA’s requirements. Finding a suitable role can feel daunting, and it make take some time to find and secure an appropriate role. Consider the following during your search:

Your Role Must Meet AHPRA's Guidelines – Your role should include direct client work, assessment, intervention, case consultation, etc.
Look for Suitable Job Titles – Positions like Provisional Psychologist, Behaviour Support Practitioner, Case Manager, or Counsellor often qualify.
Ensure You Can Get Enough Hours – You need at least 17.5 hours per week for your internship.
Clarify Workplace Support – Some workplaces provide supervision, resources, and structured training—this can make a big difference in your experience.
Have a Backup Plan – If you’re struggling to find an internship position, consider multiple part-time roles that together meet the requirements.
Be Wary of Exploitation! - Some organisations will offer unpaid internships or roles to 'help' you complete your internship. Do NOT settle for one of these roles. You must be paid for your work to make the internship viable and completable without burning out.

If a singular work role doesn’t fully meet all AHPRA’s core competencies, you may need to supplement your experience (e.g., adding a secondary job - don't settle for being exploited in roles that offer the experience you need under the guise of volunteering. You deserve to be paid for your work during the internship).

Beginning Your Internship

Starting your 5+1 internship can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps will set you up for success. Here’s a few steps to help you get started:

Find a Board-Approved Supervisor (primary and secondary)

Your supervisors will be a key part of your journey, providing mentorship, oversight, and guidance throughout your internship.

Finding the right supervisor is important, it is similar to the need to have the right client/therapist fit. Here's how to find a supervisor:

Check AHPRA’s Approved Supervisor List – Ensure your supervisor is board-approved and suitable for your training pathway.
FindASupervisor.com.au - A new service for finding board approved supervisors can help you to find someone suitable for you.
Consider Compatibility – Look for someone with experience in your areas of interest (e.g., knowledgeable about your potential client base, understands the internship, similar work styles, etc.).
Ask About Availability & Fees – Supervisors may have limited spaces, and their fees vary. Some workplaces cover supervision costs—check before committing.
Arrange an Introductory Meeting – Treat this like an interview. Ask about their supervision style, expectations, and experience.

Tip: You don’t need to settle for the first supervisor you find—seek someone who aligns with your learning style and career goals.

Gather Essential Resources

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools to stay organised and meet AHPRA’s requirements:

Internship Plan & Program Approval – You’ll need to submit this to AHPRA before you can start logging hours. Find the relevant forms here under the 5+1 Internship Program section: Psychology Board of Australia - Forms
Logbooks & Templates – These track your supervision, professional development, and client work. (Download a free logbook from AHPRA’s website or try our logbook to simplify your tracking. Our logbook was created after struggling to find a useful free alternative that was user friendly.)
Key Textbooks & Study Materials – Essential resources include:
- The APS Code of Ethics
- DSM-5-TR
- Other useful Materials will be posted on the site
Professional Memberships – Consider joining:
- Australian Psychological Society (APS) – for professional resources, discounts on CPD, and networking. The APS associate memberships for Provisional Psychologists are quite affordable.
- Australian Association of Psychologists Inc. (AAPI) – for support, advocacy, and reduced insurance costs. The AAPI does some great work advocating for General Psychologists and equity.
Professional Indemnity Insurance – Required to cover liability in your practice. Some workplaces provide this, but you’ll likely need to arrange your own regardless.

Try to keep everything organised from the beginning—this will make reporting and submitting requirements much easier down the track.

Connect With Peers

Internships can feel isolating, but connecting with others will help you stay motivated, share knowledge, and feel supported:

Internship Support Groups – Join online communities, social media groups, and forums where interns share experiences, study tips, and job opportunities. Facebook has a number of early-career focused groups that include national and local communities.
Peer Study Groups – Preparing for the National Psychology Exam is easier when you have study buddies. Look for local or virtual groups, or organise one yourself. Try and maintain connection with peers whom you completed your Masters with as they will likely go through similar experiences during their internship as you.
Networking with Registered Psychologists – Engage with early career psychologists who have completed the pathway—they often offer valuable advice and job leads. Engaging in group supervision with a mix of early-career and experienced psychologists can be a great way to upskill.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help—many supervisors and peers remember how tough the internship year can be and are happy to support you.