University of New South Wales
Graduate Diploma in Psychology Online
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 20 months
- Course Type: Graduate Diploma
Build a recognised foundation in psychology by developing the scientific knowledge, research skills and critical thinking needed to understand human behaviour and pursue further APAC-accredited psychology study.
Course overview
Graduates from non-psychology backgrounds can gain a foundational education in psychological science through UNSW Online’s Graduate Diploma in Psychology. The program supports those seeking to understand human behaviour, apply psychological knowledge within another profession or begin the academic pathway towards psychology registration.
Scientific and research-focused study builds an understanding of behaviour, cognition, human development and psychological disorders. Students learn to analyse psychological evidence, apply quantitative research methods and consider the biological, social, cultural and ethical factors that influence how people think, feel and act.
Learning progresses from introductory psychology and data analysis to behavioural neuroscience, lifespan development, perception and cognition, psychological assessment and professional practice. Together, these areas strengthen critical thinking, research literacy and the ability to interpret behavioural information across human-centred contexts.
Accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council at Level 1, the program provides the foundational psychology sequence required before eligible graduates can apply for Level 2 study. Delivered entirely online, it can be completed in approximately 20 months of part-time study. Admission to further study is not guaranteed, and additional accredited education and training are required to pursue registration as a psychologist.
The flexibility of remote study was a game-changer for me, especially since I was juggling a newborn and working part-time. The accelerated model meant I could finish my studies and transition to a new industry as soon as possible.
William Xiao, UNSW Graduate
Key facts
March, 2027
May, 2027
June, 2027
August, 2027
October, 2027
What you will study
To earn the Graduate Diploma in Psychology Online, you must successfully complete ten courses from the following:
- Introduction to Psychology 1
- Introduction to Psychology 2
- Data Analysis and Methods of Psychological Inquiry
- Advanced Data Analysis and Methods of Psychological Inquiry
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
To be eligible for this program, you must have one of the following:
- An Australian bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline.
- A higher university qualification (Graduate Diploma or above)
Please note that UNSW graduates holding a bachelor's degree in Psychology or a Psychology major are not eligible to apply.
English language requirements
A minimum level of English competency is required for enrolment. Strong English skills are essential for participating in webinars and successfully completing coursework, assignments and examinations.
You can demonstrate your English proficiency by meeting one or more of the following criteria:
- Results from an approved English language test or completion of a recognised university English program
- Prior study completed in English at an approved institution
- Recognised qualifications that demonstrate English language proficiency
- Eligibility for an approved English language waiver
Supporting documentation must be provided, such as academic transcripts, certificates or recognised English language test results.
Recognition of Prior Learning
You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help reduce the number of units you need to study to finish your course. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
The Graduate Diploma in Psychology offers the first step to becoming a registered psychologist in Australia. Next, students must progress through additional APAC-accredited qualifications, including Level 2, 3 and postgraduate training. This program also supports further study in counselling, mental health or roles in industries like education, human resources or marketing.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative total fee in 2026: $49,500 (Full-fee paying place)
Indicative annual fees are based on your first year of study.
A student’s annual fee may vary by:
- The number of units studied.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
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.