Graduate Diploma in Psychology (CRICOS course code 028481C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. This course is designed for students who wish to pursue further studies in psychology or related fields. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00917K), it meets Australian standards for international education. Western Sydney University is a government-funded institution with multiple campuses across Greater Western Sydney, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. The course equips graduates with foundational knowledge in behavioural science, preparing them for postgraduate study or careers in psychology-related areas. With tuition fees of A$47,560 (indicative), it represents a significant investment in your future.
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Graduate Diploma in Psychology (CRICOS course code 028481C) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year (52 weeks). This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (0907 - Behavioural Science, 090701 - Psychology). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Western Sydney University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00917K), delivers this program at three locations: Bankstown, Parramatta, and Penrith. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, ensuring legal protections under the ESOS Act.
Graduate Diploma in Psychology provides advanced study in behavioural science, focusing on core areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and research methods. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills applicable to various professional contexts. Graduates typically gain a deeper understanding of human behaviour, mental processes, and the scientific methods used to study them. This program is ideal for those aiming to pursue honours or postgraduate degrees in psychology, or for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge in human services, counselling, or human resources. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with Western Sydney University, the course aligns with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) standards for graduate-level study.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. Delivery is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). Study mode may include full-time face-to-face classes, with potential online components depending on campus offerings. International students should be aware that a full-time study load is typically required to maintain their Student visa (Subclass 500). Western Sydney University offers campuses in Bankstown, Parramatta, and Penrith, each with modern facilities and public transport access. For example, Parramatta campus is a 5-minute walk from Parramatta train station, while Penrith campus is near Penrith station. Student populations at these campuses are diverse, with many international students from Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Tuition fee: A$47,560 (indicative, set by Western Sydney University). Non-tuition fees: A$300 (includes student services and amenities). Estimated total course cost: A$47,860. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Indicative weekly living costs in Sydney: rent A$300–500, groceries A$80–150, transport A$35–50. Always check the latest fees on Western Sydney University's website (www.westernsydney.edu.au) before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) to demonstrate English proficiency. Prior qualifications: a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in any discipline, possibly with some psychology background, is expected. Specific prerequisites may vary — consult Western Sydney University. This course does not include foundation studies, so direct entry is required. For alternative pathways, contact the institution. Note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; all applications are assessed individually. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend confirming entry requirements directly with the provider.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are automatically granted with the visa but must comply with Department of Home Affairs regulations. Graduates may be eligible for post-study work rights after completing a graduate diploma, depending on their qualification and location.
Western Sydney University offers this course at three campuses: Bankstown City (Bankstown, NSW), Parramatta (Parramatta, NSW), and Penrith (Kingswood, NSW). Bankstown is a vibrant suburb with a multicultural population and excellent transport links via Bankstown Station. Parramatta is Sydney's second CBD, with extensive public transport, shopping, and dining options. Penrith is located in the Blue Mountains foothills, offering a quieter lifestyle but still accessible via Penrith Station. All campuses provide modern learning facilities, libraries, and student support services. Greater Western Sydney is home to over 2.5 million people and has a growing number of CRICOS-registered providers — over 150 in the region.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents on a Student visa may work unlimited hours if the student is studying a master's or doctoral degree. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Psychology at Western Sydney University: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city). Confirm that Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) and this course (028481C) meet your needs. Step 2: Apply directly to Western Sydney University. Check entry requirements, submit required documents (transcripts, English test results), and meet application deadlines. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and prove financial capacity.
Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. Greater Western Sydney, where Western Sydney University operates, is more affordable than the inner city. Indicative weekly rent in areas like Parramatta or Bankstown: A$250–400 for shared accommodation. Groceries: A$80–150. Public transport: a weekly travel pass costs around A$40–50. Sydney has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and refund policies. Consider your lifestyle preferences: big city buzz vs. suburban calm. Parramatta offers a balance with its own nightlife and cultural precincts.
Psychology is a rewarding field but requires dedication. A Graduate Diploma is a stepping stone — after this, you may need to complete an honours year and a master's or doctoral program to become a registered psychologist. The course is academically rigorous, with emphasis on research methods and statistics. Employment opportunities include roles in human resources, counselling, social services, or further study. Australia has a strong demand for qualified psychologists, with a projected growth rate above average. However, ensure you have a genuine interest in understanding human behaviour. HeadStart Academy advises all students to research career outcomes and registration requirements from the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
Start your application process today by contacting Western Sydney University for the most up-to-date admission details.
Graduate Diploma in Psychology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.