Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)

What you will study

The Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) course comprises 100 credit points, involving the completion of three compulsory subjects (which include the research project) and two elective subjects. Unless otherwise indicated, each subject is worth 12.5 credit points.

Core subjects

Complete all of the following:

• Advanced Design and Data Analysis
• Ethics and Evidence-Based Practice
• Research Project (50 credit points)

Electives

Select two of the following:

• Current Topics in Developmental Psychology
• Current Topics in Social Psychology
• Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Models of Psychological Processes

Entry requirements

To be considered for this course, you must have a three-year accredited undergraduate psychology sequence in a bachelor's degree.

Also open to graduates of the Graduate Diploma of Psychology at the Melbourne School of Psychological Science.

English language requirements

Applicants must satisfy the university’s English language requirements for postgraduate courses. Performance band 6.5 is required for applicants seeking to meet these requirements by one of the standard tests approved by the Academic Board.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Prior studies may be credited towards your degree and potentially reduce the duration of your course. This is known as Advanced Standing (also known as credit or recognition of prior learning). Contact the university for more details.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

The Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) builds upon the attributes obtained through foundational studies in psychology with advanced training in psychological knowledge, research and inquiry skills and applications to research and practical contexts. Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) graduates demonstrate:

Academic distinction:

• Advanced knowledge of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings and historical trends in the discipline of psychology.
• Advanced knowledge of the research methods of psychological science
• Advanced oral and written communication skills for describing, evaluating and explaining psychological concepts, theories, processes and research findings.
• Pre-professional level knowledge and skills relating to psychological assessment and intervention strategies, as well as interview techniques, to prepare graduates for further study in psychology.

Active citizenship:

• An awareness of and sensitivity to social and cultural diversity and an ability to engage positively and collaboratively with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• Understanding of and deep respect for Indigenous knowledge, culture and values.
• The skills to be active, well-informed citizens who make substantial contributions to society and have the potential to become leaders in their professions and communities.
• High regard for human rights, social inclusion, ethics and the environment.

Integrity and self-awareness:

• A high level of self-direction, with the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities.
• A strong ability to work effectively independently and in groups.
• Advanced skills in self-assessment, reflective thinking and self-awareness, placing great importance on their personal and professional integrity and their willingness to explore, experiment and learn from mistakes.
• Empathy and concern for the welfare of others and have developed skills in managing their own well-being.

Fees and CSP

Estimated fee in 2026: Not yet available (Commonwealth Supported Place)

Unless otherwise noted, the indicative total course fee shown above assumes a study load of 1 EFTSL (equivalent full-time student load) commencing semester one of the listed year, except for courses with a duration of less than 1 EFTSL.

Fees are subject to annual review by the University, with any new rates effective from the beginning of each calendar year.

A student’s fee may vary depending on:

• The number of subjects studied per term.
• The choice of major or specialisation.
• Choice of subjects.
• Credit from previous study or work experience.
• Eligibility for government-funded loans.

You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.

Commonwealth Supported Places

The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.

If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you only need to pay some of your tuition fees. The student contribution amount is the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.

Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.

Your student contribution amount is:

• Calculated per the subjects you're enrolled in.
• Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
• Reviewed and adjusted each year.

HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.