University of Newcastle
Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
- Course Type: Graduate Diploma
Build a foundation in psychological science through face-to-face learning, exploring human behaviour, cognition, development and research while creating a pathway to further psychology study.
Course overview
Designed for graduates from any discipline, the University of Newcastle's Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science provides an alternative pathway into the field of psychology without requiring a prior background in the discipline. The course develops foundational knowledge across key areas of psychological science, including biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology, while introducing students to psychological assessment, intervention, personality and research.
Students engage with current psychological research throughout the program, building an understanding of the theories, concepts and evidence that underpin contemporary psychological practice. Available both online and on campus, the course offers flexibility to study in a way that suits individual circumstances while developing a strong foundation in psychology.
The Graduate Diploma is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a Level 1 accredited qualification and can provide a pathway to further accredited psychology study, including Honours and Master's programs, subject to admission requirements.
Key facts
Gosford
What you will study
The Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science requires completing 80 units of study successfully.
Core courses
- Advanced Human Cognition
- Advanced Biological Approaches to Psychology
- Introduction to Mental Health
- Advanced Social Psychology
- Advanced Psychological Research I: Experimental Design
- Advanced Applications of Perception and Learning in Psychology
- Advanced Research Methods II: Individual Differences and Assessment
- Advanced Lifespan Development
Entry requirements
In order to be admitted into the program, applicants must have successfully completed:
- An AQF 7 Bachelor's degree (or higher) or equivalent; and
- A competency exam administered online through Canvas demonstrates knowledge of first-year psychology.
Students will be allowed a maximum of two attempts at the test. Students who do not pass the test cannot commence the program. Students can defer their offer of admission for one year and retake the test the following year. Students will be directed to appropriate resources to consult prior to completing the test.
English language requirements
All applicants must demonstrate that they meet the following English proficiency requirements:
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub-Test Minimum: 6
Contact the university for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have previously studied or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning. If your application is successful, you can reduce the number of courses you need to study, saving you time and money. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this program, graduates will have:
- Comprehended and applied a broad and coherent body of knowledge of psychology, with a depth of understanding of underlying principles, theories and concepts in the discipline, using a scientific approach to different relevant topics.
- Applied knowledge and skills of psychology in a reflexive, culturally appropriate manner and sensitive to the diversity of individuals.
- Analysed and critiqued theory and research in the discipline of psychology and communicated these in written and oral formats.
- Demonstrated an understanding of appropriate values and ethics in psychology.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills and teamwork.
- Demonstrated self-directed pursuit of scholarly inquiry in psychology.
Career outcomes
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 and counselling services. Roles in personnel management, market research, health and community services are also potential career paths.
Graduates may qualify as behavioural support practitioners.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $35,265 (domestic full-fee paying place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a full-time study load of 80 units (normally eight courses) per year.
A student’s fee may vary depending on:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- 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 program.