If you’re passionate about understanding people, helping communities, and making a difference in mental health, you may be wondering: How do I turn my degree into a licence to practise psychology?
The journey to becoming a psychologist is exciting but requires planning. In the UAE, licensing is regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Community Development Authority (CDA), each with its own requirements depending on where and how you want to work. And if your goals extend your work beyond the UAE, there are international pathways too, including becoming an Australian-registered psychologist through Curtin University.
Step 1: Build Your Foundation with an Undergraduate Degree
Your first step is a recognised bachelor’s degree in psychology. This is where Curtin Dubai’s Bachelor of Science (Psychological Science) comes in, a program designed to give you a strong foundation in psychology while developing practical skills through research, assessment, and counselling.
In the UAE:
With a bachelor’s degree, you can work in entry-level roles such as Assistant Psychologist, Research Assistant, Assistant Behavioural Analyst, or Counsellor (under supervision) in the education sector or community centres.
Requirements for CDA Licensing:
Curtin University Dubai graduates of the Psychological Science program who wish to work as Assistant Psychologists or Assistant Behavioural Analysts must complete a short online training program offered by the CDA in partnership with the British University in Dubai.
This training can be undertaken simultaneously with the final semester of the program. Graduates must also complete the required placement period.
Upon successful completion of both the training and placement, students will receive a training certificate, which is required to apply for a CDA professional license.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of Curtin Dubai’s internship, volunteering, and research opportunities. These experiences enrich your learning, strengthen your CV, and make you stand out when applying for licensure or postgraduate study.
Step 2: Advancing Towards Full Licensure in Dubai
With your Curtin Dubai bachelor’s degree as your foundation, the pathway to becoming a fully licensed psychologist in Dubai includes:
- A full-time postgraduate master’s degree in a clinically related field
- 1–2 years of supervised clinical work after postgraduate studies, as required by some licensing bodies, to ensure readiness for independent practice
- Passing DHA or CDA licensing exams/interviews.
Step 3: Considering the Australian Pathway
Studying psychology at Curtin Dubai doesn’t limit you to the UAE. Your degree can also lead to becoming a Psychology Board of Australia registered Psychologist, opening opportunities in Australia and beyond.
How it works:
- Complete your first three years of study at Curtin Dubai, building a strong academic and practical foundation.
- Qualify to transfer to Curtin Perth in Australia for your Honours fourth year, where you’ll complete the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council accredited Honours stream, an essential step for entry into clinical postgraduate programs in Australia.
- Then apply for a two-year master’s in psychology in Australia, followed by supervised placements, ultimately leading to full registration with the Psychology Board of Australia.
Why Curtin Dubai is the Perfect Starting Point?
Choosing Curtin Dubai give you access to:
- Dual Pathways: Curtin Dubai gives you the choice to stay in the UAE to pursue DHA/CDA licensing or transfer to Australia to become a Psychology Board of Australia registered psychologist, offering flexibility to match your career goals.
- Practical Learning from Day One: You’ll take part in industry internships, research projects, and hands-on experiences throughout your degree, ensuring you graduate with both academic knowledge and real-world skills.
- A Globally Recognised Degree: Curtin University degrees, including those earned while studying in Dubai are accredited by TEQSA, the Australian Accreditation agency. Degrees earned at Curtin Dubai are licensed by the Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) and are therefore recognised everywhere in the UAE.
- A Globally Ranked Degree: As part of an internationally ranked university, your Curtin Dubai degree is respected worldwide, enhancing your employability in diverse markets.
- Personalised Support: Faculty and advisors guide you every step of the way, from your first class to the day you secure your licence, ensuring you stay on track and supported.
Your journey doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you see yourself shaping Dubai’s mental health landscape or practising internationally, Curtin Dubai equips you with the qualifications, experience, and support to get there.
To start your journey today, explore our Bachelor of Science (Psychological Science) program and take the first step toward licensure.
