HEARING firsthand what really happens in "a day in the life of a psychologist" provided University of Southern Queensland students with valuable insights into their chosen field of study at a recent information evening in Hervey Bay.

USQ psychology lecturer Trish Beaumont said students who attended the annual Psychology Week event told her the evening "was a great hit".

"Students commonly ask what type of work is involved within the various psychology disciplines and we hoped that by hearing about 'a day in the life' of different psychologists that they may have some of these questions answered," she said.

"Local psychologists working in forensic, clinical, health and private settings were invited to speak about the type of work they do and the students had an opportunity to mingle and talk with the speakers at the end of the event.

"USQ's head of school (psychology, counselling and community) professor Tony Machin and lecturer Dr Michelle Adamson also lent their expertise for the evening.

"Michelle filled in for the clinical psychologist who had to pull out in the lead-up to the event."

National Psychology Week is an Australian Psychology Society initiative that aims to increase public awareness of how psychology can help people and communities lead healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

Each November, hundreds of Australian psychologists run NPW events such as community festivals, workshops, forums, seminars, presentations, teas, and displays to highlight psychology and its contribution to the Australian community.

This year National Psychology Week was held from November 10 to 16.

USQ Fraser Coast offers a number of psychology courses on campus towards the Bachelor of Science (Psychology) program.

For more information, visit www.usq.edu.au/frasercoast.