Graduate Diploma of Psychology (CRICOS course code 040166B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by James Cook University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 course, offered in the field of Behavioural Science, is designed for graduates who wish to pursue further studies in psychology or enhance their professional skills. James Cook University, a government provider with CRICOS registration 00117J, delivers this program at its Townsville campus in Queensland. International students considering this course will appreciate the structured curriculum, the university's strong research focus, and the vibrant student life in Townsville. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and legal protections under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$39,148, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course, including entry requirements, delivery locations, and how to apply. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
The Graduate Diploma of Psychology (CRICOS 040166B) is a one-year postgraduate program at AQF Level 8, classified under Field of Education 090701 - Psychology. It is offered by James Cook University (JCU), a public university in Queensland with CRICOS provider code 00117J. This course is ideal for international students who have completed a bachelor's degree in any discipline and wish to gain foundational knowledge in psychology, either for career advancement or as a pathway to further study. As a CRICOS-registered course, it assures quality and compliance with the ESOS Act, giving students legal rights and protections while studying in Australia. The course is delivered only at JCU's Townsville campus, providing access to JCU's world-class facilities and experienced faculty. Graduates develop skills in research methods, critical analysis, and understanding of human behaviour, which are valuable in many careers including human services, counselling, and research.
This course covers core areas of psychology including cognitive, developmental, social, and biological psychology, as well as research methods and ethics. Students gain a solid grounding in scientific principles and practical applications relevant to understanding behaviour. The curriculum is designed to meet the foundational competencies required for further progression towards provisional registration as a psychologist or entry into honours programs. While specific subjects are not detailed here, the field of Behavioural Science (0907) encompasses the systematic study of human and animal behaviour, including learning, motivation, and personality.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification – no dual or combined awards. Full-time study is typical, but part-time options may be available subject to provider policy. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the full course is A$39,148, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$39,148. This amount is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change. Important additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–700 per year, living expenses (e.g., rent A$200–350/week, groceries A$80–150/week, transport A$30–50/week), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with James Cook University at www.jcu.edu.au.
For this Graduate Diploma, James Cook University typically requires a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) from a recognised institution. English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL or PTE). Applicants without a background in psychology may be required to complete foundation units; check with JCU for specific prerequisites. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. This provides valuable opportunity to gain Australian work experience and supplement living costs.
The course is delivered only at James Cook University's Townsville campus in Queensland. Townsville is a regional city in North Queensland with a population of over 180,000. It is known for its tropical climate, proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, and vibrant student community. Living costs in Townsville are generally lower than in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne. The city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers, with JCU being a major institution. Public transport connects the campus to the city centre. For more on studying in Queensland, see our state guide.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria demonstrating genuine intention to study, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character requirements. Upon course completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) with post-study work rights. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, meaning they are approved to enrol international students and must comply with ESOS Act protections. For personalised migration advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Psychology at James Cook University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Townsville). Confirm James Cook University's CRICOS registration (00117J) and course code (040166B).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through James Cook University's online portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English language test results, and any additional materials specified by JCU. Note application deadlines – typically multiple intake periods per year.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once JCU issues your CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and demonstrate financial capacity. The visa application fee is currently A$1,600.
Apply now to James Cook University's Graduate Diploma of Psychology. For more information and to start your application, visit the official course page on www.jcu.edu.au.
Graduate Diploma of Psychology is a CRICOS-registered programme at James Cook 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.