Campuses and locations
The University of Newcastle is a multi-campus institution offering programs in a number of locations.
I am a prospective
student, looking to study at
Duration1 year full-time or part-time equivalent up to 4 years maximum.1 year full-time.
Mode of deliveryFace to Face
Start datesSemester 1 (21 Feb 2022),
Semester 1 (21 Feb 2022),
Semester 1 (21 Feb 2022),
Semester 1 (21 Feb 2022),
FeesFind information about indicative course and program fees.AUD 44,510 (indicative annual fee, 2021)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about feesAUD 44,510 (indicative annual fee, 2021)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about fees
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about feesAUD 44,510 (indicative annual fee, 2021)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about fees
English proficiencyIELTS overall minimum - 6.5, IELTS section minimum - 6.0 Find out more about IELTS.
Program Code40223
Study Psychological Science
Having a broad understanding of brain functions, mind and human behaviour is not only interesting, but highly relevant to all of us in our everyday lives. The University of Newcastle’s Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science has been designed for those interested in expanding their knowledge in, or pursuing a career in Psychology.
The program provides an alternative pathway into the field of Psychology, as it allows graduates of an undergraduate degree (or higher‐level qualification) in any discipline to develop skills in the discipline of Psychology and achieve a bachelor’s-degree equivalent in Psychology.
Why study with us?
- Discover an alternative pathway into the profession of Psychology – successfully complete our program and apply to undertake further study to become a registered psychologist.
- Fast-track your career – with the ability to complete your studies in just one year, you can progress your career in the field of Psychology sooner, or up skill and expand your allied health career opportunities.
- Flexible study options - this program has been designed to provide you with the flexibility to study while you work.
- Build important professional relationships – through supportive mentoring, build relationships with key academics who may become your supervisor for future Honours projects, should you decide to continue your studies.
- ERA 5 ‘well above world standard’ for Psychology and Cognitive Sciences (Excellence in Research for Australia 2018)
87.3%
?
of undergraduate Psychology students satisfied with teaching quality
92.3%
?
of undergraduate Psychology graduates found employment within four months
Top 200
?
in the world - Psychology
What you will study
You will engage with current research throughout the program to gain a foundational understanding of key psychological concepts, theories and practices.
Key areas of study include:
- Assessment and intervention
- Biological psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Personality
- Social psychology
- Research
Successful completion of this program will open up the pathway for further study should you wish to pursue a career in Psychology. Graduates of this program may be eligible to apply for the 1-year Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) program, which is required to apply for the Clinical and Professional coursework Master’s programs. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue other postgraduate pathways in Psychology such as the Master of Business Psychology.
Program plans
Download a program plan for further details on your degree's structure and what courses you will study.
These program plans are applicable to new students. Current students should refer to the program handbook to access the plan relevant to the year they commenced.
- 2021-2022 Program Plan 175.6 KB
Career
Career opportunities
Graduates develop a wide range of knowledge and skills valued across industries. You may continue to progress in your current career into management levels or shift your focus to specialise in human service organisations, employment agencies, counselling services, personnel management, market research, or health and community services.
Graduates will also have the option to continue with their education in Psychology though an Honours or Master’s program depending on their chosen career path to develop their professional and clinical skills.
Professional recognition
This program is undergoing accreditation with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
Study with us
Hear from our students
Listen to our students talk about their degree and life at the University of Newcastle.
How to apply
Applying for Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science
I am a prospective
student, looking to study at
Before you get started
To ensure that the process goes smoothly for you, you should complete the following steps before applying:
- Review the program that you wish to apply for. Note the admission criteria, admission instructions, requirements & structure and any additional information listed.
- Review the program fees and costs.
- Check whether your postgraduate program has a Semester or a Trimester closing date. Please view the application closing date.
- If you are from a non-English-speaking background, you need to satisfy the University's English language requirements and ensure that you can provide evidence of your English proficiency if required.
You will be considered for entry based on criteria such as your undergraduate studies and/or equivalent prior learning and/or relevant work experience.
Other things to consider
Make sure you double check the special entry requirements, assumed knowledge or recommended studies for the degree:
In order to be admitted into the program, applicants must have successfully completed:
- An AQF 7 Bachelor degree (or higher), or equivalent.
- A competency exam administered online through Blackboard, demonstrating knowledge of first year psychology.
Students will be allowed a maximum of two attempts at the test. Students who do not pass the test will not be permitted to commence the program. Students will be able to defer their offer of admission for one year, and re-take the test the following year. Students will be directed to appropriate resources to consult prior to completion of the test.
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.
Applicants for this program must satisfy a minimum English Language Proficiency Standard equivalent to an IELTS overall minimum of 6.5 with no subtest result below 6.0
You can look at Uni prep for options to brush up on knowledge before you start.
Ok, great, let's go!
Applications for Semester 1 2022 are now open and will close on January 16 2022. No late applicants can be accepted.
Apply to study in Australia
Both students and education agents can submit applications online. This is our preferred way of application. You can save your application after you have started, and come back to it later.
Alternatively you may complete a paper-based application.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.