Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)

University of Melbourne

Australia, Melbourne

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University of Melbourne

Australia , Melbourne

Key Facts

Program Level

Graduate Diploma

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

026666K

Campuses

Parkville

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesFebruary-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 1 year(s)

Tuition Fee

AUD 54,976 / year

Next Intake February-2026

Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)

About

Overview

The science of psychology involves a wide range of perspectives and approaches, with psychological research findings having important applications in areas such as health, education, business and commerce as well as a wide range of societal issues.

The Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) at the University of Melbourne has been designed to build on the knowledge and skills attained in the APAC accredited Graduate Diploma in Psychology.

The course provides students with flexibility and choice in advanced coursework in the core discipline areas of Psychology, as well as an opportunity to undertake advanced training in the conduct of a significant research project, and to develop pre-professional knowledge of the ethical principles and assessment and interviewing skills that underpin further professional training as a psychologist.

It is also the recommended pathway for students wishing to undertake a higher research degree in Psychology to pursue a career in psychological research.

Course description

The Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) is identical in content and assessment to the Psychology Honours program (via the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Biomedicine).

However, the two programs differ in their award requirements. Honours students require a minimum overall mark of 65% to be awarded the degree, whereas Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) students require a minimum overall mark of 50%. The academic results obtained through both courses are considered equivalent for those intending to undertake further study.

More information on the Graduate Degree pathway to become a psychologist

Download course brochure

Why study psychology at the University of Melbourne

No. 1 university in Australia for psychology

The University of Melbourne is ranked number one in Australia for Psychology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025), offering world-class courses taught by renowned psychologists.

Professional accreditation

Many psychology courses at the University of Melbourne are accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), providing the necessary subjects for generalist psychologist registration in Australia.

Practical learning environment

Students apply their knowledge in practical learning environments tailored to their needs through our key partners and collaborators, such as Royal Melbourne Hospital, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health and Orygen.

Upcoming information session

What Next After Undergraduate Psychology?

When: TBC

Hear from academic convenors and current students about training at the University of Melbourne in the following areas:

Psychology Honours in Arts, Science or Biomedicine
Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)
Psychology projects in the Master of Biomedical Science
Master of Applied Psychology
Master of Professional Psychology

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Minimum eligibility

You’re considered an international student based on your citizenship – even if you're studying in Australia.

Masters

You must have completed an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution. Most Masters degrees also require a minimum WAM (Weighted Average Mark)based on your previous studies for entry. You can use our graduate coursework grade conversion eligibility calculator to get an indication of whether you’re eligible for a specific Masters degree.

Depending on your previous studies and experience you could also be eligible for credit towards your studies at the University.

Find Masters by coursework degrees

Doctorates

If you go on to a doctorate, you need to have completed an Honours and Masters degree in the relevant discipline. Additional qualifications and work experience is also taken into consideration.

Go to Graduate research study for more information

To find out about assessment and our admissions criteria, see How you're selected.

Course-specific requirements

Graduate coursework degrees may have specific interviews, portfolios and supplementary tests you need to do before you can be accepted into a degree.

To find out about specific requirements, review the entry and application information for the course you're interested in to find out what these are.

English Program Requirements

English Language Criteria

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

Career

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 both 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.
A 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 both independently and in groups.
Advanced skills in self-assessment, reflective thinking and self-awareness; placing great importance on their personal and professional integrity, and on the 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.