The Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science at the Cairnmillar Institute is a transformative program designed for individuals with an undergraduate degree (in any discipline) who aspire to transition into the field of psychology. This one-year, Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC)-accredited program serves as a foundational sequence for further studies in psychology.
Key Highlights:
- Pathway to Advanced Study: Completion enables students to apply for APAC-accredited fourth-year programs, such as Honours in Psychology or a Graduate Diploma in Advanced Psychology, which are prerequisites for professional registration pathways.
- Flexible Learning Options: The program is offered online or in-person, catering to diverse learning needs and schedules.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Students undertake an 8-unit sequence covering core areas of psychology, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and research methods.
Course Structure
The Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science consists of 100 credit points, equally distributed across eight core units. All units are coursework units.
Program Overview
The Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science is a one-year (or two-year part-time) course accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). This ensures the program meets national standards for psychology education and lays a solid foundation for advanced study or professional practice in psychology.
With this diploma, students complete an eight-unit sequence, covering fundamental areas of psychology such as:
- Biological Psychology: Exploring the link between the brain and behavior.
- Developmental Psychology: Understanding how people grow and change throughout their lives.
- Cognitive and Social Psychology: Delving into how we think, learn, and interact with others.
- Research Methods: Equipping students with skills to design and conduct psychological studies.
These units are carefully designed to provide students with an understanding of the core principles and methodologies of psychology while encouraging critical thinking and ethical practice.
Who Is It For?
This diploma is ideal for career changers, mature students, or graduates from unrelated fields seeking to pivot into psychology. It also provides a solid grounding for those aspiring to become registered psychologists or pursue advanced psychology research.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. The program accepts applications twice annually for Semester 1 and 2 intakes.
Career and Educational Outcomes:
Graduates can progress toward provisional registration as psychologists or enter research roles in behavioral science. The diploma sets a strong foundation for master’s or doctoral studies.
Why Choose Cairnmillar Institute?
- Flexible Learning
Cairnmillar offers flexible online and in-person study options, making it accessible to students across Australia. This flexibility allows learners to balance their studies with work or other commitments. - Expert Faculty
The program is taught by experienced psychologists and academics who bring both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. This ensures students receive comprehensive, real-world training. - Supportive Environment
Cairnmillar prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive learning atmosphere. Students have access to counseling, academic support, and career guidance throughout their studies. - Pathway to Further Study
Graduates are eligible to apply for APAC-accredited fourth-year psychology programs such as Honours in Psychology. This is a critical step for those aiming for provisional registration as a psychologist in Australia.
Who Should Enroll?
This program is ideal for:
- Career Changers: Those with a degree in another field looking to transition into psychology.
- Aspiring Psychologists: Individuals seeking to become registered psychologists through further study.
- Research Enthusiasts: Students keen to contribute to the growing field of behavioral science.
Ready to Begin Your Psychology Journey?
The Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science is more than a program—it’s a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in psychology. Whether you want to understand human behavior, help others, or contribute to cutting-edge research, this course is the first step.
For more details, visit the official Cairnmillar Institute website to explore the course and start your application