Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology

This course provides advanced study of the discipline of psychology, advanced research training and an introduction to psychological practice through studies in developmental psychology, counselling, psychological assessment and intervention, and ethical and professional issues in psychological practice. The course is designed both for students wishing to undertake supervised psychological practice upon completion of the course and for those wishing to pursue more advanced postgraduate training at master's or doctoral level.

Acknowledged as the equivalent of an honours degree course, the content is recognised as the fourth year of preparation for those wanting to pursue advanced postgraduate training at masters or doctoral level, and for those seeking to undertake supervised psychological practice after completing the program.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that you will be able to:

1. add to the understanding of psychology through scientific research that includes critically reviewing pertinent literature and identifying research problems, developing and carrying out research utilising methods of analysis commonly encountered in psychology and communicating the findings in a manner consistent with discipline-specific requirements
2. understand, describe and discuss the purpose of legislation relating to the research and practice of psychology and how to comply with such legislation and show an appreciation of the role of ethics in maintaining the integrity and cohesiveness of the profession
3. demonstrate an understanding of the scientist practitioner model across a range of areas of psychological practice
4. critically evaluate, appraise and discuss contemporary issues in psychology and understand the importance of maintaining competence in the field through ongoing professional development.

Credit may be awarded for successful completion of units undertaken as part of a fourth year in psychology approved by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).

The requirements for registration as a psychologist are determined by the Psychology Board of AustraliaPsychology Board of Australia (http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/) (PsyBA) under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme. A minimum six-year sequence of education and training in psychology is required for an individual to become eligible for general registration as a psychologist in Australia. You can read more about the various pathways to registration on the Australian Psychological SocietyAustralian Psychological Society (https://www.psychology.org.au/Default.aspx) (APS) website.

The Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology provides an Australian Psychology Accreditation CouncilAustralian Psychology Accreditation Council (https://www.psychologycouncil.org.au/) APAC-accredited fourth-year qualification in psychology and is an approved program of study in psychology by the Psychology Board of Australia.

Graduates qualify for associate membership of the Australian Psychological Society (Assoc. MAPS).

The course is structured in two parts, Part A. Professional studies in psychology and Part B. Research program in psychology.

Part A. Professional studies in psychology (24 points)

These studies are based on a scientist practitioner model and provide the advanced psychology studies needed in order to progress to postgraduate training in psychology. You will learn about individual differences and their assessment and the ethical, legal and social issues involved in psychological practice. You also advance your understanding of developmental psychology and have the opportunity to focus on an area of interest such as applied behaviour analysis or counselling psychology.

Part B. Research program in psychology (24 points)

You undertake a study program in statistics and research design and, under the guidance of a staff member, plan an independent research project. This project involves designing, gaining ethical approval for data collection or use of data, data gathering, data entry and analysis using appropriate statistical techniques or methodologies, the preparation of a research report and a literature review according to the specifications of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA).

The course progression mapcourse progression map (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/2016handbooks/maps/map-d5002.pdf) will assist you to plan to meet the course requirements, and guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

The course comprises 48 points structured into two parts: Part A. Professional studies in psychology (24 points) and Part B. Research program in psychology (24 points).

Units are 6 credit points unless otherwise stated.

Part A. Professional studies in psychology (24 points)

Students complete:

• EDF4601 Ethics and professional issues
• EDF4602 Psychological assessment
• EDF4605 Introduction to counselling psychology

and one of

• EDF4600 Developmental psychology and wellbeing
• EDF4603 Behaviour change interventions for practitioners

Part B. Research program in psychology (24 points)

Students complete:

• EDF4604 Research project (24 points)

Eligible graduates may proceed to the further training and study required for professional qualifications in psychology.