Graduate Diploma in Psychology (CRICOS course code 083210C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0907 - Behavioural Science, 090701 - Psychology) and is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of human behaviour and mental processes. Graduates typically pursue careers in counselling, human resources, or further study in psychology. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections.
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This Graduate Diploma in Psychology provides advanced knowledge in key areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and research methods. Students learn to critically evaluate psychological theories, apply ethical principles, and conduct basic research. The curriculum is aligned with AQF Level 8 standards, preparing graduates for roles that require analytical thinking and an understanding of human behaviour. While specific subjects are set by Australian Catholic University, typical learning outcomes include the ability to assess psychological evidence and communicate findings effectively.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded in the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the program is delivered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation component. Students are expected to engage in full-time study, with a workload of approximately 40 hours per week including contact hours and independent study. The VET national code is not applicable as this is a higher education course.
Indicative tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Psychology are A$32,072, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$32,072. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year. Living expenses are estimated at A$21,041 per year (Australian Government indicative figure). For the most current fee information, always check the Australian Catholic University website: www.acu.edu.au.
Academic entry requirements typically include completion of a bachelor's degree in any discipline. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet direct entry criteria. Contact Australian Catholic University for specific prerequisites and recognition of prior learning options.
This course does not include a 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 breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain valuable work experience while studying.
The Graduate Diploma in Psychology is delivered at two campuses: Australian Catholic University-Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, Victoria, and Strathfield Campus in Strathfield, New South Wales. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest cities, each home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers. Fitzroy is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne with excellent public transport (trains and trams), while Strathfield is a central Sydney suburb with a train station and bus connections. Indicative weekly rent in Melbourne is A$350–A$500, and in Sydney A$400–A$600. Both cities offer vibrant student communities and cultural diversity.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, holding OSHC for the duration of stay, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa requirements, and consider advice from a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Psychology at Australian Catholic University Limited:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Psychology), and location (Victoria or New South Wales). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (ACU is 00004G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit ACU's website (www.acu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts and any required documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once ACU issues your CoE, you can apply for a visa. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Wait for visa approval before traveling to Australia.
Both Melbourne and Sydney offer world-class education and lifestyle. Melbourne is known for its arts, coffee culture, and slightly lower cost of living (approx. A$450–A$600 per week for rent and living expenses). Sydney boasts iconic landmarks, a warmer climate, and higher living costs (approx. A$500–A$700 per week). Over 300,000 international students study in these two cities combined. Public transport is extensive: Melbourne's tram network and Sydney's trains and buses make commuting easy. Consider your personal preferences for city vibe, climate, and budget when choosing a campus.
Ready to start? Explore more Graduate Diploma courses in Psychology on HeadStart Academy, or apply directly to Australian Catholic University today.
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Graduate Diploma in Psychology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.