Graduate Diploma in Psychology

 

Step into the world of psychology and help drive meaningful change 

Start your journey to becoming a registered psychologist in Australia with UNSW’s online Graduate Diploma in Psychology. This APAC Level 1 accredited program covers developmental, cognitive and abnormal psychology, plus essential training in research and ethics. Whether you aim to become a psychologist or use these skills in fields like education, HR or marketing, you’ll be ready to make an impact.   

Designed by top researchers and practitioners, the curriculum supports your professional goals. With UNSW's flexible online program, you can study anytime, from anywhere. Complete the diploma in as little as 20 months* and gain the psychological insights to drive change.

 

*Completion time dependent on individual study path, RPL, leave and course availability. Please speak to a Student Advisor for more information.

 

 

What you will study

The UNSW Graduate Diploma in Psychology covers key psychological concepts and advanced research techniques. Core courses include behavioural neuroscience, perception, lifespan development and psychological disorders. You’ll also learn ethical practices, cultural understanding and assessment methods, building a strong skill set for diverse roles. 

This 100% online diploma provides valuable skills and insights for human-centred fields and prepares you for APAC Level 2 programs, a step towards psychologist registration. It equips you to drive positive change and make informed decisions.

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Introductory courses
  • Introduction to Psychology 1
  • Introduction to Psychology 2
  • Data Analysis and Methods of Psychological Inquiry
  • Advanced Data Analysis and Methods of Psychological Inquiry
Advanced courses
  • Behavioural Neuroscience 
  • Psychology Across the Lifespan 
  • The Individual, Culture and Society 
  • Perception and Cognition 
  • Abnormal Psychology 
  • Psychological Assessment, Ethics, and Professional Skills

Pathway to registration

The  Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Online) at UNSW offers a clear pathway for those pursuing registration as a psychologist in Australia. This Level 1 APAC-accredited program lays the groundwork for future studies, and upon completion, students may qualify for the  Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology, a Level 2 APAC-accredited course. Advancing to Levels 3 and 4 through a master’s program is the next step toward general registration as a psychologist.

 

 

 

 

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The growing demand for psychologists in Australia^

Australia is facing a mental health crisis, with 1 in 5 Australians experiencing a mental health condition each year. The situation is compounded by a projected shortfall in the mental health workforce, with the country expected to be 60% shy of its required professionals, including psychologists, by 2030. This underscores the urgent and growing demand for qualified psychologists to meet the nation's mental health needs. 

A Graduate Diploma in Psychology at UNSW Online can equip you with the skills to make a meaningful impact in this critical field. 

 

The UNSW Online experience

Our online learning experience fits your busy schedule with six six-week study blocks a year, letting you focus on one course at a time while balancing work and other responsibilities. Depending on the course, you can expect to dedicate 20 hours of study per week. This accelerated learning experience allows you to complete your diploma in as little as two years, with no on-campus requirements.

As a UNSW Online student, you will benefit from world-class academics, an exceptional learning experience, and personalised support from your dedicated Student Success Advisor. Enhance your career prospects with Career Success, a self-paced module packed with valuable resources, including LinkedIn guides, resume tips and exclusive events featuring industry leaders - all tailored to help you achieve your professional goals. Join a network of prestigious UNSW alumni who have achieved remarkable success across diverse industries, further solidifying the university's reputation for excellence.

 

^Sources: psychology.org.au/insights/10-changes-psychology-professionals-want-in-2025 • psychology.org.au/about-us/news-and-media/media-releases/2025/psychiatrists-and-psychologists-unite-to-call-for • careers.australianhealthprofessionals.com.au/the-in-demand-need-for-psychology-jobs-in-australian-health-professionals • aihw.gov.au/mental-health/topic-areas • mhaustralia.org/fact-sheets/statistics-mental-health-fact-sheet • psychology.org.au/insights/mental-health-crisis-driving-huge-demand-for-skill