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Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology (Clinical)

Postgraduate Diploma PGDipPsych(Clin)
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The Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology is a specialist qualification leading to professional registration as a psychologist.

Applications for 2025 entry are now closed.

Applications for 2026 entry open in August 2025.

140 points, 3 years (part-time)

Hamilton

Trimester A (March)

Why study the Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology (Clinical)?

Clinical psychology is a discipline characterised as an applied science, with a firm empirical foundation, and an emphasis on objective data to support assessment and treatment of persons who are experiencing psychological problems in their life.

Training in clinical psychology is based on the “Boulder model” where the emphasis is on the use of research-based knowledge to develop practical competencies. An integration of science and practice is emphasised so that research informs practice, practical understanding and issues guide meaningful research, and individualised and unique clinical work is strengthened by scientific method.

Clinical psychologists base their assessment and treatment on the evidence generated through research. Assessment and treatment with clients raises new questions which helps design research. For these reasons, clinical psychologists need to be trained in both practice and research as well as the integration of the two.

140 points, 3 years (part-time)

Hamilton

Trimester A (March)

Degree information

Entry Requirements Fees and scholarships

The Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PGDipPsych(Clin)) is a three-year programme.  The first two years of the programme are often taken concurrently with the Master of Science (Research) (MSc. Research), but may also be coordinated with work toward a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD); the Masters/PhD must be completed before beginning the final (internship) year of the programme.

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

Applicants interested in concurrent enrolment in a PhD should contact the convenor of the programme to discuss a programme of study.

Read our comprehensive handbook on Clinical Psychology to learn more.

Clinical Psychology Handbook (PDF)

The Study of Psychology

Psychology is one of the most important and critical topics in modern society. Learn more about studying the subject of psychology at the University of Waikato.

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Psychology Career options

Explore our comprehensive guide on psychology careers to discover diverse job roles, necessary education pathways, and detailed registration requirements. Learn the steps to embark on a fulfilling psychology career and find the path that best suits you.

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School of Psychology and Social Sciences

School of Psychology, The University of Waikato, First Floor, K Block, Gate 1, Knighton Road, Hamilton