Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Practice – PGDipPsychPrac
Psychology
A course by
Massey University
Become a registered psychologist with Massey's Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Practice. This professional internship programme provides both academic coursework and supervised practical experience to meet the competency requirements for psychologist registration in New Zealand.
NZ$11,615
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Become eligible for psychologist registration
Attain the competencies required for registration in the Psychologist Scope of Practice with the New Zealand Psychologists Board.
Develop advanced practical and theoretical psychology skills
Combine formal study with supervised practice to deepen understanding and application of psychological principles across various contexts.
About This Course
The Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Practice (PGDipPsychPrac) at Massey University is a professional, selected-entry qualification designed to develop the competencies required for registration as a psychologist in Aotearoa New Zealand. The programme combines two courses of formal academic work with two courses of supervised practice, totalling 120 credits. Study includes intensive block courses, distance learning, and supervised internships, providing 1,500 hours of practical experience in a New Zealand workplace under the guidance of a registered psychologist. Culturally competent and ethical practice—including bicultural perspectives and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations—is strongly emphasised. Graduates qualify for registration in the Psychologist Scope of Practice under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act (2003), supporting diverse career paths across health, education, social services, and justice.
Course Content
- Advanced study of professional psychology theory, models, and principles
- Integration of New Zealand Psychologists Board Cultural and Core Competencies
- Reflective, safe, and ethical practice frameworks
- Cultural competence and bicultural perspectives, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi implementation
- Supervised psychological practice (1,500 hours)
- Development of professional identity as a psychologist
- Preparation for independent professional practice
- Core curriculum courses: Advanced Professional Issues in Psychological Practice Part I & II
- Practicum courses: Supervised practice Part I & II
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Registered psychologist in health, education, social services, or justice sectorsPsychotherapy or counselling rolesCommunity development or kaupapa Māori psychology practiceYouth and rehabilitation psychology roles
Build skills in these industries
HealthEducationSocial Services
