Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about feesAUD 48,400 (indicative annual fee, 2024)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Find out more about fees
Program handbook
Description
The Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science is targeted at students who already have a degree in a different discipline, and would like a bachelors-degree equivalent in psychology. The Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science will allow students to develop foundational skills in core psychology subjects such as research, cognitive psychology, biological psychology, assessment and intervention, developmental psychology, social psychology and personality. Successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science will allow students to meet the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) requirements for entry to the 4th year Honours program in psychology, which is required to apply for the clinical and professional coursework Masters programs.
Whilst applicants who complete the Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science may have achieved a grade point average to enable application to the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) program, an offer is not guaranteed due to a limited amount of places available. Applications will be ranked by academic merit.
Students seeking admission to this program will need to pass a competency exam administered online through Canvas, demonstrating knowledge of first year psychology.
This program is undergoing accreditation with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
Program learning outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will have:
- Comprehended and applied a broad and coherent body of knowledge of psychology, with depth of understanding of underlying principles, theories and concepts in the discipline, using a scientific approach, including the following topics: the history and philosophy underpinning the science of psychology and the social, cultural, historical and professional influences on the practice of psychology, individual differences in capacity, behaviour and personality, psychological health and well-being, psychological disorders and evidence-based interventions, learning and memory, cognition, language and perception, motivation and emotion, neuroscience and the biological bases of behaviour, lifespan developmental psychology, social psychology, culturally appropriate psychological assessment and measurement and research methods and statistics.
- Applied knowledge and skills of psychology in a manner that is reflexive, culturally appropriate and sensitive to the diversity of individuals.
- Analysed and critiqued theory and research in the discipline of psychology and communicated these in written and oral formats.
- Demonstrated an understanding of appropriate values and ethics in psychology.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills and teamwork.
- Demonstrated self-directed pursuit of scholarly inquiry in psychology.
Details
| Information correct as at | Apr 23, 2024 11:54 pm |
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| Program code | 40223 |
| AQF level | Level 8 Graduate Diploma |
| Locations and UAC codes |
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| Duration |
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| Term type | Semesters |
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| Relevant University rules and policies |
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| CRICOS Code | 102640H |
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Admission information
Admission requirements
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 Canvas, 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.
English Language Requirements
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.
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6
Credit transfer
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Professional recognition
Australian Psychology Accreditation Council
Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science seeking provisional registration with the Psychologists Board of Australia are required to undertake an accredited honours year in psychological science, the University of Newcastle offers the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours). Whilst applicants may have achieved a grade point average to enable application to the Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) program, an offer is not guaranteed due to a limited amount of places available. Applications will be ranked by academic merit.
Academic requirements for program completion
Total units required
80 units
Program duration
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent up to 4 years maximum.
International students studying this program on campus are required to enrol full time to comply with their student visa requirements and complete their study in the standard minimum program duration. International students requiring enrolment advice should review the program plan corresponding to the semester and year of commencement and can contact their Program Advisor at ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au
Program requirements
Students are required to complete a total of, but no more than, 80 units, comprised of the following:
- 80 units of core courses
Please note: Students must only complete courses that form part of the program.
Program planner
Current students program planner
Current students can plan their program using Program Planner.
Prospective student degree planner
If you're a prospective student considering studying this degree take a look at My Degree Planner to see what your study journey will look like.
Additional documents
- 2024 Transition Arrangement 790.4 KB
Program structure
Students can plan their program using Program Planner. It is recommended students review the program handbook in conjunction with using Program Planner.
Advanced course filters
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Core
Complete the following core courses. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
| PSYC6823 | Advanced Human Cognition |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6824 | Advanced Biological Approaches to Psychology |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6825 | Introduction to Mental Health |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6829 | Advanced Social Psychology |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6830 | Advanced Psychological Research I: Experimental Design |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6833 | Advanced Applications of Perception and Learning in Psychology |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6836 | Advanced Research Methods II: Individual Differences and Assessment |
| 10 units |
| PSYC6837 | Advanced Lifespan Development |
| 10 units |
Additional information
Through the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, students can access a free suite of NUPrep preparation courses as well as Academic Learning Support.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.
International students
All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit our International Students website to find out more about the support services available to international students.
Additional support
AccessAbility provides advice and reasonable adjustments to Students with a medical or health condition or disability. If you require adjustments to undertake your program, contact the Student Support Advisors - AccessAbility before semester or early in the semester. They will work with the College or School to ensure that this happens in a timely manner.
Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. More information is available online.
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