Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology
- Commencing Terms
- Hexamester 1 & 4
- Duration
- 1 Year
- Delivery Mode
- Online
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- Program code 5332
- CRICOS code -
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $38,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $38,000*
- -
- -
Fees
Fees
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Flexible, online program
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Real-world applications
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Leading researchers
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Designed for students who have completed foundational studies in psychology, the Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology is a one-year honours program. This online program acts as the second step on the six-year sequence to becoming a registered psychologist*.
Through coursework and a major research project, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of advanced psychological theories, research methods and practical applications. Guided by expert practitioners and academics, you’ll explore a wide range of topics, including cognitive processes, developmental psychology, social psychology and psychological assessment.
*This degree is currently undergoing accreditation assessment by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a level 2 program. Students who complete the program will be eligible to embark on masters level study required to progress as a registered Psychologist.
Key features
Focus on real world application of psychology
The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology is practically focused on the application of psychology themes in clinical, occupational and social settings to truly prepare students for life in the field.
Make real-world impact while you study
The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology emphasises real-world application to prepare you for life in the field. Both the coursework and your major research project will focus on a contemporary challenge or development across a range of clinical, occupational and social settings.
Flexible, online delivery
This program is delivered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to complete your studies in your own time, while balancing other commitments. You’ll participate in weekly lectures, complete coursework independently and undertake your research project under the guidance of an experienced academic supervisor.
Why study this degree at UNSW?
Join the forefront of psychology education and research
UNSW is globally renowned for its contributions to the field of psychology. We’re a proud member of the prestigious Group of Eight Universities – a coalition of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities. We’re ranked 2nd in Australia for Psychology* and our School of Psychology attracts more research funding than any other psychology school in Australia.
*QS World University Rankings 2024
Join an in-demand profession
According to the Australian Psychological Society, the current number of psychologists in the workforce only meet 35% of the national demand for mental health services in Australia. In addition, the 2023/24 Federal Budget committed $91.3 million in additional funding to get more psychologists in the field. These circumstances provide graduates with strong earning potential and job security.
A career that drives progress
At UNSW, we’re committed to improving the quality of life of our communities. For psychologists joining the workforce today, this extends beyond the traditional one-to-one clinical setting. Contemporary psychologists can unlock opportunities across a range of environments, such as health, business, sport, marketing, human resources, education and more.
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Entry requirements
Students must have completed a 3-year undergraduate Psychology degree, or an equivalent bridging sequence, that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) on behalf of the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) as fulfilling the requirements of the accredited Level 1 Foundational competencies in Psychology, within the last 10 years. The minimum requirement for eligibility to apply for entry to the program is to achieve a grade of at least 65.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. Learn more.
Program structure
The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology is an online program that takes one year to complete. Students will complete a total of 48 units of credit (UOC). This comprises 24 UOC of advanced-level coursework, including core courses and a prescribed elective, and a 24 UOC independent research project, conducted under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
Full program structure
This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in 1 year of full-time study. Students must complete:
3 core courses – 18 UOC
- Advanced Research Methods and Statistics
- History and Professional Ethics in Psychology
- Application of Psychological Practice
1 elective – 6 UOC
- Behavioural Neuroscience
- Mental Health and Illness
- Cognitive Science
- Social Psychology
Research component – 24 UOC
- Research Project Introduction Part 1
- Research Project Introduction Part 2
- Research Project Methods
- Research Project Results Part 1
- Research Project Results Part 2
- Research Project Thesis
Future careers
As a graduate of the Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology at UNSW, you’ll be on your way to establishing a meaningful career in psychology. This degree is currently undergoing accreditation assessment by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a level 2 program. Students who complete the program will be eligible to embark on masters level study required to progress as a registered Psychologist.
The demand for psychology professionals continues to rise, which often translates into competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities.
At UNSW, our emphasis on building employability means you’ll have the technical knowledge and practical skills to hit the ground running after graduation. Whether you go on to complete further study, take the research path, or get stuck into work right away, your comprehensive education will prepare you to make a significant, positive impact throughout your career.
Potential careers
Here are some potential roles you might undertake:
- Career Counsellor
- Clinical Psychologist*
- Counsellor
- Forensic Psychologist*
- Guidance Counsellor
- Human Resources (HR) Specialist
- Management Consultant
- Market Research Analyst
- Marketing Specialist
- Neuropsychologist*
- Organisational Psychologist*
- Policy Advisor
- Researcher
- Social Worker*
*Further training and/or qualifications required
Accreditation
As the Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology is a new program offering it is currently undergoing the same accreditation assessment by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) that our other UNSW Psychology offerings have already been assessed against and satisfied. We expect the program to be accredited before the first incoming students commence their study. Once obtained, this will mean that program satisfies the conditions of a level 2 program required for students wishing to pursue professional practice. If successful, students who complete the program will be eligible to embark on masters level study required to progress as a registered Psychologist.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred start. You will indicate the hexamester in which you wish to commence as part of the application. See Key Dates for the application deadline of each hexamester.
If you wish to be considered for credit transfer, you can indicate this within your application. If you’re applying for credit you will need to upload the official transcripts as well as the official course outlines of the completed courses that you believe are equivalent in addition to the other required supporting documents.
Successful applicants will be emailed an offer letter which specifies the commencing hexamester and dates. If the session you are applying for has reached full capacity, you will be issued an offer to commence in the next available session. Ensure you accept your offer online and enrol into your courses by the relevant deadlines.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Featured scholarship
Featured scholarship
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
The student community collectively inspire and encourage my individual career goals.
