Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science

Discover an alternative pathway into the profession of psychology

Understanding how our brains work, how our minds think and how our behaviours change is not only interesting but very relevant to daily life. This program is designed for those who want to learn more about psychology or start a career in the field.

The Australian Psychology Accreditation Council have registered our Graduate Diploma as an accredited ‘Level 1’ program. This means students learn the foundational psychology competencies and the program is equivalent to the level of competence achieved in most Bachelors Degrees in Psychology (without honours).

It allows graduates of an undergraduate degree (or higher‐level qualification) in any discipline to develop skills in the discipline of psychology. By exploring your passion for psychology, you can begin a rewarding career making a difference in people's lives. With the option of 100% online study, this program is designed to provide the flexibility to suit your needs.

what you will study

You will engage with current research throughout the program to gain a foundational understanding of key psychological concepts, theories and practices.

Key areas of study include:

• Assessment and intervention
• Biological psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Personality
• Social psychology
• Research.

Find out when applications close for available intakes

Review the information below and submit your application now.

Both students and education agents can submit applications online. This is our preferred way of application. You can save your application after you have started, and come back to it later.

To ensure a smooth application process, please complete the following steps before applying:

Note: Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University of Newcastle’s English Language Proficiency requirements.

Applicants who do not speak English as a first language 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.

In the application portal, you can enter the program you wish to study and upload relevant documents needed as part of your application. It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended semester of trimester start date.

Graduates develop a wide range of knowledge and skills valued across industries. You may continue to progress in your current career into management levels. Alternatively, you could specialise in human service organisations, employment agencies, counselling services. Roles in personnel management, market research, health and community services are also potential career paths.

Depending on your career goals, you can further your education in Psychology by applying for entry to our Honours or Master’s programs. This opportunity allows you to develop your professional and clinical skills further.

Graduates of this program may qualify for the following roles within the industry:

• Behavioural Support Practitioner
• Research assistant
• Case manager
• Mental health or disability support worker
• Roles in health promotion, policy development, or other allied health or community service settings.