"After completing the [Graduate Diploma in Psychology], I went on to study the Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) and now my new career goal is to retrain as a registered psychologist via the Master of Professional Psychology."
I’ve always had an interest in psychology, but I chose the path of being a lawyer in the public sector, which I did enjoy but the lingering fascination with the human brain won me over in the end. What fascinated me most about psychology was the interaction between brain chemistry and our experience of the world. Having my first child gave me the opportunity to take a break from paid work and made me rethink my career goals.
I chose to study the Graduate Diploma in Psychology at the University of Melbourne for its reputation and the beautiful Parkville campus. I really appreciated the academic rigour at Melbourne and being expected to think about the content rather than just rote learn.
Thinking back the most challenging part of the course for me was statistics – that subject tested me. I appreciate that I now have a much better understanding of the scientific process and it has benefited me to be pushed beyond my comfort zone.
The highlight of the course was meeting some wonderful people, both academics and students. To have made lasting friendships with people across a range of ages and with very different life experiences has been a gift.
In the end I really valued what I learnt and will go on to apply my knowledge in evidence-based practice. My studies at Melbourne have taught me a lot about human behaviour. After completing the course, I went on to study the Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) and now my new career goal is to retrain as a registered psychologist via the Master of Professional Psychology.
The advice I would give to current and future students interested in the course is make connections with other students early on. Be realistic about how much work you can do outside of the course, or consider doing it part-time so you can get the most out of your studies.
Find out more about the Graduate Diploma in Psychology
Find out more about the Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced)