What Will I Learn on a Graduate Diploma of Psychology?

A graduate diploma of psychology teaches you about human behaviours and development, providing you with an understanding of psychological science. The course's eight units will help you prepare for a career in psychology, providing you with the skills and knowledge to help people. Understanding what you will learn in the course can help you decide if it's the right choice for you, which is why we have detailed what you will learn on the course and everything else you need to know about a graduate diploma of psychology.

A woman psychologist with glasses is sitting in an armchair and is consulting a patient on the couch. Professional psychological assistance — Image by yana-aybazova on Freepik

What Is a Graduate Diploma of Psychology?

A graduate diploma of psychology is a postgraduate course that helps build on your foundational knowledge of psychological science. The course will help to develop a deeper understanding of human behaviours and development, too, where you will learn about common psychological disorders and use a cultural approach to understand human behaviour better.

The course is the perfect option if you have not studied psychology before and want to progress into a psychology career or become a registered psychologist. The course is offered full-time and part-time, with the option to study flexibly online, too. Online psychology courses allow you to gain the information you need without worrying about fitting in classes with your busy schedule.

What Will I Learn on a Graduate Diploma of Psychology?

What you learn on a graduate diploma of psychology varies slightly depending on the course provider. Most courses will feature overlapping content, though, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on any crucial information. A graduate diploma is split into eight units, with the opportunity to stop studying after four units and being awarded a graduate certificate in psychology.

The unit titles can vary, but you can expect to see the following:

Correlational research design and analysis - where you learn about core principles of correlational research designs and associated statistical techniques
Experimental research design and analysis - teaches you about core principles of experimental and quasi-experimental research designs and associated parametric and non-parametric statistical analyses
Neuroscience and human behaviour - where you learn about biopsychological and physiological bases of human behaviours
Psychological science of well-being - apply psychological science to analysing and promoting psychological well-being within a biopsychosocial framework
Psychological development and diversity in childhood - where you explore human development from infancy to adolescence
Psychological science of human social behaviour - applying theories of social psychology to a range of contemporary global and local issues
Psychological development and diversity in adulthood - where you analyse and apply psychological theories to human development across adulthood
Psychological science of human information processing - learn about core principles, concepts, and theories of cognitive psychology and learning

What Do I Need to Apply for a Graduate Diploma of Psychology?

The entry requirements for a graduate diploma of psychology vary depending on the course provider, but most courses will have similar entry requirements. Typically, you will need an Australian bachelor’s degree in a similar discipline. You can also apply if you have a graduate certificate in psychology or five years of relevant work experience.

We recommend that you speak to the course provider directly to understand what they class as relevant work experience and to learn more about their entry requirements. When applying for a graduate diploma of psychology, you will usually need to complete an online application, where you will include a CV or a supporting statement about why you wish to complete the course. Many course providers will have enrollment services who can assist you and help you find the right course and complete your application.

What Can I Do with a Graduate Diploma of Psychology?

After completing your graduate diploma of psychology, you have several career options available to you. You can move into a range of roles in human-centred fields, including:

Healthcare
Human services
Human resource management
Marketing
Education

You can also remain in education and study for a graduate diploma of psychology (advanced), which is an important step to becoming a registered psychologist. Completing further study allows you to register as a psychologist and work supporting and helping people.

Find Your Psychology Course Today

A graduate diploma of psychology will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a variety of roles where you can help others. The course also acts as the perfect stepping stone to further study, where you can train to become a registered psychologist. There are plenty of course providers for a graduate diploma of psychology, but we recommend ECU. With their supportive staff, flexible study, and accredited courses, you will gain the knowledge you need to thrive as a psychologist. Study their graduate diploma of psychology today and see what future awaits you.