Western Sydney University
Graduate Diploma in Psychology
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
Designed for those seeking entry into the profession as a provisional psychologist, offering personal and professional knowledge and skills taught by experts in the field to help advance your career.
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma in Psychology is an accredited undergraduate fourth-year program and an alternative method to fourth-year honours. This program is for eligible students seeking to pursue training pathways leading to provisional registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia or progress to higher degree research in psychology.
You’ll be part of an active research culture that broaches a range of theoretical and epistemological approaches in applied and pure psychological research. You will also explore a range of methods, including experimental, quasi-experimental and qualitative research and a strong postgraduate training program.
Entry into this program is limited to students who have completed an approved, accredited three-year undergraduate sequence in Psychology (or an approved, accredited bridging sequence such as the Graduate Diploma of Psychological Studies) at an institution other than Western Sydney University in the last 10 years. In addition, you must have obtained an average mark of 70 in subjects equivalent to Levels 2 and 3, with a majority of Credit or higher grades in subjects equivalent to Levels 2 and 3.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
What you will study
Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 80 credit points, including:
- 20 credit point research methods subject
- 30 credit point thesis
- Three 10-credit-point subjects
Core subjects
- Advanced Topics in Contemporary Psychology
- Counselling and Consultation
- Theory and Practice of Psychological Assessment and Intervention
- Research Methods Seminar (20 credit points)
- Psychology Research Thesis (30 credit points)
Entry requirements
Entry into the Graduate Diploma in Psychology is limited to students who have completed an approved, accredited three-year undergraduate sequence in psychology at an institution other than Western Sydney University in the last ten years.
In addition, students must have obtained an average mark of 75+ in core accredited Level 2 and 3 psychology subjects (or equivalent).
English language requirements
Applicants who have undertaken studies in other countries may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Details of the minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof can be found on the University Admissions Centre website.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning is recognition of prior learning in terms of experience and/or studies. When you apply for Credit for Prior Learning, the university will assess your prior learning. It may award you Credit for Prior Learning in the program you are currently studying in recognition of what you have achieved. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to many exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
- Psychologist in private practice
- Government departments such as the Department of Family and Community Services and the Department of Ageing and Disabilities
- Occupational psychologist
- Human resources
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $17,399 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full-time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee.
Commonwealth Supported Places
Studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means that the Australian Government pays part of the fees towards your program, therefore reducing your tuition fees. The remaining amount that you pay is referred to as your Student Contribution.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per subject 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.
