Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) (GDA-PSYCH) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

Knowledge

• Advanced knowledge of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in core discipline areas in Psychology. The elective subjects enable students to build depth and breadth of understanding in relation to two of the foundational knowledge areas outlined by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
• Advanced knowledge of the range of research methods employed in psychological science, including how to evaluate and interpret the results of such methods.
• Basic pre-professional knowledge of psychological assessment and psychological intervention strategies, including evidence-based evaluation of these methods.
• Advanced knowledge of ethical principles in psychology and of the current relevant legal frameworks and codes of ethical practice that govern psychological research and practice.
• Awareness of and sensitivity to the diversity of human experiences and cultures and the influence of these on psychological functioning, with particular reference to the experiences and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Skills

• Advanced scientific reasoning, problem-solving, and research skills to critically analyse existing knowledge of a research topic, design and execute a clearly articulated and theoretically motivated individual research project, analyse data utilising appropriate research methods, and interpret results coherently to determine their implications.
• Effective scientific communication skills to articulate cogent scientific explanations of psychological concepts, theories and research findings, and communicate these ideas effectively to various audiences in both written and oral formats.
• Basic pre-professional communication skills in reflective listening and rapport building.

Application of Knowledge and Skills

• Pre-professional applied skills in psychology, including use of interviewing skills in situations appropriate to psychological practice and research, administration and interpretation of commonly used tests of cognition and personality, and implementation of a brief self-directed behaviour change intervention.
• Design and execution of an individual research project to address a research question relevant to the discipline of psychology.
• The ability to work effectively with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, with particular emphasis on working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) builds upon the attributes obtained through foundational studies in psychology with advanced training in psychological knowledge, research and inquiry skills, and applications to both research and practical contexts. Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) graduates demonstrate:

 Academic distinction

• Advanced knowledge of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in the discipline of psychology.
• Advanced knowledge of the research methods of psychological science.
• Advanced oral and written communication skills for describing, evaluating, and explaining, psychological concepts, theories, processes, and research findings.
• Pre-professional level knowledge and skills relating to psychological assessment and intervention strategies, as well as interview techniques, to prepare graduates for further study in psychology.

 Active citizenship

• An awareness of and sensitivity to social and cultural diversity, and an ability to engage positively and collaboratively with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• Understanding of and deep respect for Indigenous knowledge, culture, and values.
• The skills to be active, well-informed citizens who make substantial contributions to society, and have the potential to become leaders in their professions and communities.
• A high regard for human rights, social inclusion, ethics and the environment.

 Integrity and self-awareness

• A high level of self-direction, with the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities.
• A strong ability to work effectively both independently and in groups.
• Advanced skills in self-assessment, reflective thinking and self-awareness; placing great importance on their personal and professional integrity, and on the willingness to explore, experiment, and learn from mistakes.
• Empathy and concern for the welfare of others and have developed skills in managing their own well-being.