Program Overview

Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science

The Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science is designed for those who want to learn more about psychology or start a career in the field. It allows graduates of an undergraduate degree (or higher-level qualification) in any discipline to develop skills in the discipline of psychology.

Overview

Understanding how our brains work, how our minds think, and how our behaviors change is not only interesting but very relevant to daily life. This program is an alternative pathway into the profession of psychology. With the option of 100% online study, this program is designed to provide the flexibility to suit individual needs.

Career Opportunities

Graduates develop a wide range of knowledge and skills valued across industries. Career paths may include:

• Behavioural Support Practitioner
• Research assistant
• Case manager
• Mental health or disability support worker
• Roles in health promotion, policy development, or other allied health or community service settings.

Program Details

• Program Code: 40223
• Duration: 1 year up to 4 years (full-time and part-time options)
• Next Start Date: Semester 1 — 27 Jan 2026
• CRICOS Code: H
• Indicative Fee: AUD 53,870
• English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS overall minimum - 6.5, IELTS section minimum - 6.0

What You Will Study

Key areas of study include:

• Assessment and intervention
• Biological psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Personality
• Social psychology
• Research

Core Courses

• PSYC6823 Advanced Human Cognition
• PSYC6824 Advanced Biological Approaches to Psychology
• PSYC6825 Introduction to Mental Health
• PSYC6829 Advanced Social Psychology
• PSYC6830 Advanced Psychological Research I: Experimental Design
• PSYC6833 Advanced Applications of Perception and Learning in Psychology
• PSYC6836 Advanced Research Methods II: Individual Differences and Assessment
• PSYC6837 Advanced Lifespan Development

Accreditation

The Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a LEVEL 1 APAC accredited degree.

Admission

To apply, review the Program Handbook, Admission Requirements, Program fees and costs, and decide on your preferred commencement date. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University of Newcastle's English Language Proficiency requirements.

Similar Degrees

• Bachelor of Psychological Science
• Master of Clinical Psychology
• Master of Professional Psychology