Western Sydney University
Graduate Diploma in Psychology
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
Acquire professional knowledge and skills from industry experts to advance your career.
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma in Psychology is an accredited undergraduate fourth year program and is 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 both applied and pure psychological research. You will also explore a range of methods, including experimental, quasi-experimental and qualitative research and a strong program of postgraduate training.
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 FEE-HELP
Estimated first-year tuition fee in 2026: $17,399(domestic full-fee paying place).
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 80 credit points (normally eight units) per year.
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- 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.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
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.
