Clinical Psychology

Y Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology

The Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology is a three year programme following completion of the BSocSc(Hons) or its equivalent.  The first two years of the programme are often taken concurrently with completing a Master’s degree (typically an MSocSc), but may also be coordinated with work toward a PhD.  In any case, either a Master’s or a PhD degree must be completed before the student can begin the final (internship) year of the programme.

The Diploma programme comprises academic coursework and supervised clinical practice.  There is a gradual transition over the three years from an emphasis on didactic teaching and observation in the first year, to mainly supervised clinical experience (internships) in the final year. In all years, substantial independent work is required, such as accessing and reading journal articles and writing clinical reports and case studies.

An important goal of the clinical programme at Waikato is to produce clinical psychologists who are able to implement the most current and most effective methods of assessment and treatment in a socially relevant and sensitive way.  Scientific and technical knowledge is not sufficient to have an impact on social problems if the professional clinician does not have the social and interpersonal understanding to recognize the needs of contemporary New Zealand society and the many cultures and varied individuals who make up that society.  Thus professional responsibility, high ethical standards and practice matched with integrity, and a dedication to resolving societal needs, are all considered an essential part of the development of a well-rounded clinician.