University of Adelaide
Graduate Diploma in Psychology
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 20 months
Accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and covers all the foundational knowledge you need to start your journey towards becoming a registered psychologist.

Course overview
The 100% online Graduate Diploma in Psychology is your first step in a rewarding career of connecting with others.
These smaller, intimate class sizes ensure you’re able to forge those one-on-one connections and get the most out of your study program. The university's dedicated and highly qualified staff will support you every step of the way. Start an application today and join South Australia's #1 university for graduate employability (QS, 2022).
Why study psychology at the University of Adelaide?
- 100% online: Study around your commitments and access content and assessments 24/7.
- Engaging content: Discover what makes people tick through short instructional videos, readings and interactive activities.
- Research excellence: The University of Adelaide were ‘above world standard’ in the 2018 Australian Research Council (ARC) Excellence in Research Australia report.
- Trusted support: The university's dedicated Student Success Advisors and PhD-qualified tutors provide one-on-one support.
- Stay connected: The university's smaller, intimate class sizes ensure that you’ll get the most out of your online psychology program.
- Study pathway: Complete the university's Graduate Diploma in Psychology and then seamlessly transition into the university's honours-equivalent program.
Key facts
What you will study
To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Psychology Online degree, you must complete 10 courses or 30 units. Each course is worth three units.
Core courses
- Foundations of Psychology
- Learning and Behaviour
- Research Methods, Design and Analysis
- Developmental Psychology
- Psychological Health and Well-being
- Applying Research Methods in Psychology
- Culture and Context
- Social Psychology
- Cognitive Psychology
- Individual Difference and Assessment
Entry requirements
To be eligible for the online Graduate Diploma in Psychology, you will need an undergraduate Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline.
English language requirements
In order to meet the English language proficiency requirements for the University of Adelaide's 100% online postgraduate programs, you must be able to demonstrate that you meet the minimum English Language requirements.
Typically, if English is your first language, you will not be required to provide evidence of proficiency in the language. You will also not be required to provide proof of English language proficiency if you are an Australian citizen, Australian Permanent Resident (visa status) or hold a passport from one of the following countries: Canada (English-speaking provinces only), New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States.
Contact the university or visit their website for more detailed information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have previously studied or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning. This will help reduce the number of courses you need to take to finish your program. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the online Graduate Diploma in Psychology, graduates will be able to:
- Synthesise and critique psychological theory and contemporary knowledge.
- Apply psychological concepts to complex personal, social and societal issues.
- Formulate psychology research questions and design psychological research studies.
- Apply qualitative, quantitative and mixed methodology techniques to analyse psychological data.
- Produce reports and other materials in formats suitable for various audiences and purposes.
- Reflect critically on the ethical issues, legislative requirements and evidence-based approaches underpinning psychological research and select areas of professional practice.
Career outcomes
Psychology career paths and opportunities:
- Registered Psychologist
- People-centric Roles
- Research and Academia
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative total cost in 2025: $40,230 (domestic full-fee paying place)
The indicative total cost is based on a study load of 30 units or 10 courses.
A student’s annual fee may vary per:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee-paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.