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THIS IS YOUR PATH TO A CAREER IN PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL SERVIICES

A supported start to your studies in social work, psychology, human services or counselling.

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If you are curious about why people think, feel, and behave the way they do – and want to make a positive impact in your community, the Diploma of Social and Psychological Science is the ideal first step.

All our diplomas are designed to boost your academic skills while you undertake the same subjects as students in the first year of their degree.

Grow your academic skills, meet entry requirements and move directly into your degree with credit. In most cases you will begin directly in year two.

WHAT COULD YOUR NEXT STEP BE? CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AT A GLANCE

This data is based on occupation profiles retrieved from the Government’s Jobs and Skills Australia website, July 2025.

Key Selling Points

AVERAGE SALARY

Social Worker - $1850/week
Counsellors - $1,477/week
Welfare Support Workers - $1,688/week
Psychologists & Psychotherapists - $2,054/week

ANNUAL EMPLOYMENT GROWTH

Social Worker - 2,900 positions
Counsellors - 3,400 positions
Welfare Support Workers - 4,400 positions
Psychologists & Psychotherapists - 4,300 positions

EMPLOYED NATIONALLY

Social Worker- 50,500
Counsellors-40,000
Welfare Support Workers - 95,700
Psychologists & Psychotherapists - 51,800

DIPLOMA OF SOCIAL & PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE

This diploma provides foundational knowledge in human behaviour, mental processes, and the social forces that shape our lives. You will gain skills in research, analysis, and communication, preparing you for further study and a range of careers.

TYPICAL STUDY AREAS INCLUDE:

  • Introduction to psychology
  • Sociology and cultural studies
  • Research methods in the social sciences
  • Human development and relationships
  • Social policy and community engagement

PATHWAYS TO GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY

Upon completion, you can progress into:

  • Bachelor of Psychological Science
  • Bachelor of Counselling
  • Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Psychological Science/Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Arts

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CHASE YOUR CAREER GOALS

“My teachers gave me the confidence that I could succeed at university after all these years.”

“It’s been nice to connect with other people of different ages that I would have not met otherwise.

“I was nervous about going back to school, going through the college I was taught how to study, how to prepare and to overcome my nervousness. The college set me up with a lot of support, so now I’m ready to study more on my own.”

– Jeremy, Diploma of Social and Psychological Science Graduate

Key Selling Points

DIRECT ENTRY INTO UNIVERSITY WITH CREDIT

INCLUSIVE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A FOCUS ON DEVELOPING YOUR WRITING, RESEARCH AND REFERENCING SKILLS

FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME, ON-CAMPUS OR ONLINE

A SUPPORTED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

COURSES DESIGNED FOR STUDY SUCCESS

Complete our unique course designed to build the skills and language needed for success at university including: analytical and critical thinking, citation and referencing, research and reading literature critically.

ONE-ON-ONE GUIDANCE

Connect with Student Learning Advisors, Student Counsellors and academic staff for personalised support throughout your studies. These dedicated support roles can assist with academic and wellbeing support to ensure you’re staying on-track.

LIVE, COLLABORATIVE CLASSES

By championing small classes over large auditoriums, academic staff can provide you with far more personal support, and help you overcome challenges as they arise. Whether you study on-campus or online, all classes are delivered live with a focus on engagement and collaboration.

STUDENT SUPPORT YOU CAN COUNT ON

You won’t be thrown in the deep end. Our support services are designed for students just like you, because study should feel empowering, not overwhelming.

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STUDENT LEARNING ADVISORS

We have a fantastic team of experienced Student Learning Advisors who are always on hand to provide you with the support you might need to assist with your studies, including;

  • Assignment help or consultations
  • Developing specific academic skills
  • Creating a study structure
  • Managing changes to your study load or circumstances
  • Accessing disability support.

Current students can book a face-to-face or online appointment via the Digital Campus with one of our Student Learning Advisors.

COUNSELLORS

Student Counsellors with experience in specific aspects of emotional wellbeing are available to offer guidance and support on any aspect of life that might be affecting your academic journey.

Current students can book for a virtual or face-to-face appointment with our Student Counsellors via online booking. Make an appointment for support with welfare and wellbeing issues including:

  • Student safety
  • Loneliness and/or homesickness
  • Personal relationships
  • Academic difficulties and stress
  • Financial problems
  • Personal trauma
  • Employment options
  • Concerns regarding friends and family
  • Personal health

PROGRAM CONVENORS

Your Program Convenor oversees your entire Diploma program and is a key contact for program-related guidance and support. You can reach out to them for help with:

  • Changing majors or study plans
  • Exploring career direction
  • Navigating academic challenges
  • Addressing academic integrity issues

LECTURER CONSULTATIONS

In addition to small, interactive classroom sessions, all Griffith College lecturers and tutors offer weekly consultation hours.

If you have questions or need support with course content, your lecturer or tutor is the best person to speak with. Consultations are held on campus and are typically available for one hour per week per class.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Small class sizes mean you’ll quickly get to know your peers and build lasting friendships.

Our campus hosts regular social events, alongside workshops and opportunities designed to grow your employment skills and prepare you for future career success.

INCLUSIVE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS TO HELP FOLLOW YOUR PASSION

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ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

If you’ve completed Year 12, a Certificate III, IV or Diploma, or started higher education within the last 10 years, you’re already on your way.

Don’t worry if you don’t have an ATAR or it’s lower that the degree ATAR, it’s not needed for your application.

These qualifications show you’ve got a solid foundation, and we’ll use them to assess your application.

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WORK AND LIFE EXPERIENCE

If it’s been more than 10 years since you completed any formal qualifications, don’t worry! Your life and work experience matter.

We recognise the value of everything you’ve learned outside the classroom, and we’re here to help you take the next step.

Once you submit your application, you’ll be invited to a friendly online or phone interview with a staff member from the College. This is a chance for us to get to know you, understand your goals, and explore how we can support you on your study journey.

GETTING STARTED IS SIMPLE

PICK YOUR DIPLOMA AND DEGREE

SUBMIT YOUR ONLINE APPLICATION

GET PERSONALISED ENROLMENT SUPPORT

START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

Fill in your details and our team will help you find the right pathway. No pressure, just practical advice.

GOT QUESTIONS? LET’S ANSWER THEM

HOW MUCH SUPPORT WILL I GET?

We encourage students to connect with the support services available. It can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.

Reaching out for academic or personal support isn’t a sign of struggle, it’s a smart strategy that can boost your confidence, reduce stress, and help you thrive.

You will have access to expert teaching staff, dedicated support services, and a connected community. Reach out, stay engaged, and build routines that support your wellbeing.

HOW DO I PROGRESS TO GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY?

When you apply for the Diploma of Social and Psychological Science you will also indicate your choice of bachelor program.

You will receive one packaged offer for both programs.

Once you graduate from the diploma, Griffith University will be in touch with information for your to enrol into you next bachelor courses.

We host information sessions to help with your transition to Griffith University.

IS ONLINE STUDY AN OPTION?

Yes, the Diploma of Social and Psychological Science is available online. You will attend one live, online workshop per week and need to dedicate time to prepare for this workshop.

We want your online study experience to be collaborative and engaging and encourage discussion and involvement in workshops.

AM I ELIGIBLE?

There’s no need for an ATAR with Griffith College.

We can base your entry off any academic qualifications completed in the last 10 year, including year 12 a certificate III, IV or Diploma or incomplete university study.

If it’s been longer than 10 years, we can conduct an interview to discuss your readiness for study and take into consideration your work and life experiences.

WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT?

You should plan to dedicate approximately 10 hours per course per week, including joining workshops, completing reading and activities, as well as working on assignments and study.

Additional time may be required during assessment periods.

HOW LONG WILL THE DIPLOMA TAKE TO COMPLETE?

To complete the program, you must successfully complete eight courses. The duration of your studies depends on the academic load you choose:

  • A full load of four courses per trimester allows you to complete the diploma in two trimesters (8 months).
  • Alternatively, you may complete three courses in the first two trimesters and two in the final trimester, completing the program over three trimesters.
  • The minimum enrolment is one course per trimester.
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