Student Highlights
A fresh start with business psychology

“I found my apprenticeship to be something too rough for me, and that I was more the type of person that was good with my head and bad with my hands.

“I used to look at the people working in the office and think ‘I need an office job’, but it was when I read the book The Brain That Changes Itself, that I became interested in psychology and pursued a Bachelor of Psychological Science,” Rene said.

Originally pursuing an interest in neuropsychology, Rene found courses in business psychology to be fascinating.

“I found some of the business applications to psychology fascinating, such as what makes someone a leader and how organisations are influenced by their own cultures,” he said.

Enjoying the atmosphere and people in his undergraduate program at the University of Newcastle, Rene continued his studies with a Master of Business Psychology.

Due to the flexible nature of the program, Rene has been able to study online, work, and travel the world.

“I studied part-time, and took the online options, which allowed me to travel and work full-time.

“When Covid happened, studying online gave me an advantage, and the University was very gracious in giving extra time when things got a little crazy. I am grateful to the University for allowing such flexibility,” he said.

Recently completing the degree, Rene has picked up work as a Support Coordinator for Hunter Primary Care.

“My role entails coordinating the support for psychosocial NDIS clients, connecting them to social, medical, and allied health professionals.

“A lot of my studies connect to my role with an understanding of psychology, management and being organised,” he said.

Rene has future aspirations to step up to a manager role and start a side business around one of his personal hobbies.

“My time at the University of Newcastle has given me the passion and techniques to help me study, and now I have a master’s degree completed with distinction.

“Above all, I have received degrees which have really opened up my career opportunities and have already left a good impression on my boss.

“I now have growth potential as someone well versed in both business and psychology,” he said.

For those considering undertaking the Master of Business Psychology, Rene has the following advice:

“Don't be afraid to study part-time to allow yourself more time to work and study.

“Take the opportunity to do any practical experience or work-integrated learning.

“Travel while you study. I believe that travelling opened my eyes to not just culture but different kinds of organisational cultures, giving me firsthand experience in some of my own coursework,” Rene said.

Rene Macarthur

After a false start as an apprentice shipwright for a local company, Rene’s career has set sail on a new course. He has now completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science and a Master of Business Psychology.