Key facts
Duration
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Locations
Course overview
If you are looking to build on the skills you’ve developed at the undergraduate level, the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) is an APAC-accredited course that deepens your understanding of human behaviour while preparing you for a successful career as a registered psychologist.
Want to explore exciting new areas of psychology and take a big step towards general registration as a psychologist?
For students on the path to becoming a registered psychologist, who also want to learn from leaders in the field and build professional networks, the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) ticks all the right boxes. It’s accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), which means you can apply for provisional registration as a psychologist as soon as you complete the course and meet the requirements of the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). It is also a pathway towards further postgraduate study, which you will need for general registration. Plus, postgraduate psychology at Deakin has reputation for teaching quality and is ranked number 1 in Victoria for student satisfaction*, so you can be confident you are joining a program that empowers you to be your best. The course can be studied on campus or online, giving you the flexibility to achieve your goals on your schedule.
Throughout the course, you will build new skills that allow you to provide better advice, interventions and treatments to clients. Discover a range of advanced psychological assessment methods and gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to formulate psychological opinion in casework. One of the units, Applied Counselling Skills (Advanced), gives you the opportunity to learn about these applied techniques and how they could be used with clients in mental health settings.
Acknowledging that research is an important tool of the modern psychologist, the course includes a number of research components that enhance your industry readiness. The research and analysis skills you learn will be incredibly valuable throughout your entire career. They will also prove crucial should you continue your studies at master or doctoral levels.
What are your options once you finish this course?
Once you meet the requirements of the Psychology Board of Australia, you can apply for provisional registration as a psychologist. If it’s general registration you’re seeking, your study journey continues. The Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) is a recognised fourth year (honours equivalent) pathway to the following APAC-accredited courses that lead to general registration as a psychologist:
- Master of Psychology (Organisational) – the only organisational psychology course in Victoria: offered on campus, full-time and part-time
- Master of Psychology (Clinical)
- Master of Professional Psychology
- Doctor of Psychology (Clinical).
If you are not interested in becoming a registered psychologist, you will graduate from this course with sought-after skills and experience that allow you to enter the workforce and thrive in a variety of areas including community welfare and case management, mental health rehabilitation and public health.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 15 June 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced)
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H650
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 0101383 Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Postgraduate (Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8
Flexible course delivery
Deakin’s blend of online and on-campus learning means you can balance work, study and personal development. Achieve work-life balance – study with Deakin's dedicated support and flexible learning options.
Course structure
To complete the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced), you must pass 8 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 8 credit points of core units
- including 4 credit points of an independent research project
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Part-time students wishing to deviate from the recommended structure should consult the course director.
Karolinska Institute exchange students must enrol in:
The Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) consists of 2 components: coursework and a thesis.
The coursework component (consisting of classes and seminars) contributes 50% to the final grade awarded. Part-time students must complete the coursework component in the first year of their course. As required by the accreditation guidelines of the Australian Psychological Society, the coursework covers:
- research methods;
- issues in psychological assessment; and
- Applied Counselling Skills (Advanced)
For further details of the coursework component, see the unit description for HPS715, HPS742, HPY710 and HPY712.
The thesis component (see HPY720 and HPY721) contributes 50% to the final grade of honours awarded. The thesis is a write-up of an individual research project based on an original piece of empirical research. A range of types of data (qualitative, quantitative, subjective, objective) and a range of data-collection settings and methodologies can be used as the basis of the thesis component. The Fourth Year Thesis consists of 4 components:
Research Project A in Trimester 1
1. Thesis literature review draft (1500-2000 words; 0% hurdle assessment)
2. Thesis proposal presentation (10-minute oral presentation; 0% hurdle assessment)
Research Project B in Trimester 2
3. Thesis poster (A0 research poster; 0% hurdle assessment)
4. Thesis (5500-6000 words; 4 credit points; 100%).
Students are encouraged to attend at the annual School Fourth Year Conference online.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
You can commence Trimester 1 on a part-time or full-time basis.
- Start date: July
- Available at:
Applicants who wish to apply for the Trimester 2 intake must take note of the following:
Trimester 2 commences one week earlier than the Deakin calendar for H452 Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours), the fourth-year of H345 Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and H650 Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) courses.
You will be commencing Trimester 2 on a part-time basis with only course work units in T2 (HPS433/HPY710 Client-Centred Skills in Practice and HPS434/HPY712 Psychology Research Methods (Advanced).
Complete the course in the following year by undertaking the research thesis units (HPS435/HPY720) in Trimester 1 and (HPS436/HPY721) Trimester 2 and course work units (HPS431/HPS715 and HPS432/HPS742) in Trimester 1.
NOTE: Online is available to Domestic students only, limited places available.
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
There are no mandatory student checks required for this course.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
At Deakin, we’re committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that supports all students to succeed. We work closely with students to identify and reduce barriers, and where possible, provide tailored support to help students engage with learning and assessment activities, ensuring every student has the opportunity to belong and thrive.
If you are disabled, neurodivergent, Deaf, and/or you live with the effects of a mental health condition, chronic health condition, or other condition that impacts your studies or participation in university life, we encourage you to reach out to our Disability Resource Centre for a collaborative and confidential discussion.
Work experience
Not applicable
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Please note, there are limited places in this course and entry is competitive. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible. Applications for this course may close prior to the published closing date if all places are filled.
To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree (with an APAC accredited three- year major sequence in psychology) with a minimum of a mid-credit (65%) in a level-three psychology research methods unit and a minimum average of 65% over all level-2 and level-3 psychology core units
- completion of foundation Level 1 APAC accredited psychology course or equivalent (for example: a 1 year bridging course – Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science) with a minimum of a mid-credit (65%) in a level-three psychology research methods unit and a minimum average of 65% over all level-2 and level-3 psychology core units.
- Applicants who completed their courses in psychology more than 10 years ago will need to articulate how they have maintained currency of Level 1
Foundational Competencies. This can be done by providing a CV showing recent and substantial relevant work in a related field (i.e., social work or counselling),
and/or evidence of successful completion of formal tertiary qualifications in a related discipline. Applicants who do not meet this standard will be encouraged to complete H603 Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science before re-applying
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Applicants who have not completed their course by application closing dates:
- conditional offers may be granted to eligible students
- final assessment will occur when we receive your final results
- you will be able to allocate your timetable from the day you receive your offer and CONFIRM and ENROL in the units
- if you have a conditional offer, the content will be made available for you until full assessment occurs
All Applicants
Applicants will be ranked on the basis of the marks achieved in the level-2 and level-3 HPS core units completed at Deakin University (or equivalent units completed elsewhere). This rank may also take into account marks achieved for level-2 or level-3 psychology core units (or their equivalent) completed at another institution and for which the applicant received recognition of prior learning.
There is a quota on places in the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (advanced) program and meeting the criteria does not guarantee acceptance into Graduate Diploma of Psychology (advanced). It is worth noting that the minimum mark average of Level 2 and Level 3 psychology core units (i.e. the mark 'cut-off') required for entry to Graduate Diploma in recent years has been at or above 72%.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
Recognition of prior learning
Students who have completed components of an APAC-accredited fourth year course may apply for Recognition of prior learning for up to four credit points. Recognition of prior learning can only be granted for units that are determined by the unit chairs and course directors to be equivalent to units in the Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) in content and assessment requirements. Recognition of prior learning cannot be granted for the thesis units or for studies completed as part of courses that are not APAC-accredited.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$32,800 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above. Not all courses at Deakin have Commonwealth supported places available.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical tuition fees for students completing this course within the same year they started. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for your course.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook. Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Higher Education Loan Program
Take the next step towards your ultimate degree with a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan to help pay your tuition fees.
You may be eligible for a HELP loan – including FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP – depending on your course, type of fee place, and your citizenship or residency status. Check your eligibility and learn more about Government HELP loans.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Need more information on how to apply?
For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.
Pathways
This course provides a pathway to higher degree by research courses and other postgraduate coursework programs.
Career outcomes
This course is a pathway towards APAC-accredited master and doctoral-level courses that lead to registration as a psychologist. Areas of practice endorsement in psychology include:
- clinical psychology (available at Deakin)
- clinical neuropsychology
- organisational psychology (available at Deakin)
- sport and exercise psychology
- forensic psychology
- counselling psychology
- community psychology
Working as a generalist psychologist might involve:
- family therapy
- rehabilitation counselling
- psychological assessment
Not looking to become a registered psychologist? You will still have a broad and exciting range of career opportunities to explore when you graduate from this course. Your deep understanding of psychological assessment methods combined with your client-centred approach to practise will equip you for roles in:
- community welfare and case management
- human resources
- mental health rehabilitation
- public health
- youth support
- disability services
Professional recognition
This course is recognised for registration purposes by the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA) and is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). As a graduate, you will be eligible to apply for provisional registration as a psychologist and for entry to APAC accredited master or doctoral level training programs that lead to registration as a psychologist.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply and integrate advanced theoretical, empirical, and practical knowledge in psychological assessment, counselling, and research methods to inform evidence-based reasoning, research design, and pre-professional psychological practice. |
| Communication | Demonstrate clear and effective written and oral communication skills to convey complex psychological knowledge and ideas tailored to diverse audiences including laypeople, professionals, and researchers. |
| Digital literacy | Apply advanced skills and ethical principles to select and use digital tools to collect, interpret, adapt, analyse, and communicate discipline-specific psychological information in the context of pre-professional psychology practice. |
| Critical thinking | Critically evaluate, integrate, and synthesise complex scientific evidence, and apply this knowledge to assessment, counselling, and case management to support evidence-based pre-professional psychology practice. |
| Problem solving | Use critical thinking, sceptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to collaboratively interpret, analyse and respond to problems in psychological research and practice including psychological assessment, counselling, and case management. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate professional reflexivity and self-management through critical reflection, self-care and purposeful learning, emphasising accountability for pre-professional development in psychology. |
| Teamwork | Work effectively and respectfully with others across diverse cultural, disciplinary, and professional contexts, in preparation for interprofessional psychological practice. |
| Global citizenship | Apply ethical principles and cultural responsiveness to work collaboratively and reflectively in diverse social, cultural, and global contexts relevant to psychology. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
