Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology

Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology is a qualification for psychologists who want to acquire the necessary skills to practice forensic psychology. With coursework and clinical placements, this qualification gives you expertise in a practical setting under the supervision of forensic psychologists in their workplace.

Aims and objectives

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:

1. Apply cognitive skills to review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge and identify and provide solutions to complex problems within the forensic context, and to think critically to generate and evaluate complex ideas.
2. Apply specialised and advanced technical and creative skills in the professional practice of forensic psychology.
3. Use communication skills to demonstrate an advanced and broad understanding of theoretical concepts in forensic psychology practice, to transfer complex knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences
4. Demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to make high level, independent judgments in a range of technical or management functions in varied specialised clinical and forensic contexts
5. Initiate, plan, implement and evaluate forensic practice within varied specialised technical and/or creative contexts
6. Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for personal outputs and all aspects of the forensic work or function of others (e.g., supervisees)
7. Apply a broad range of theoretical models, and skills in, forensic practice at an advanced level in a range of professional contexts

Career opportunities

The GD-FPSYFOR is the only bridging program for forensic psychology training accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). It is therefore the only way to obtain formal endorsement of expertise in forensic psychology if you are already a registered psychologist. Students who complete the GD-FPSY are able to work competently in forensic environments such as corrections, youth justice, and forensic mental health. Many graduates work in private practice providing expert reports for state and federal courts in the criminal and family jurisdictions.

Professional recognition

The Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). On completion of this course, you will be eligible to enter the registrar program for endorsement as a forensic psychologist.

Maximum Academic Credit

The maximum level of academic credit granted for recent prior study is 12.5 credit points (one unit). Credit is not provided for placement units.