- Duration
- Full-time: 1 year
- Next start date
- 2026 Semester One – 2 March
- 2027 Semester One – 1 March
- Available locations
- City
- Points
- 120
- Programme type
- Postgraduate
Programme overview
Designed for graduates of the Master of Behaviour Analysis, the PGDipAppPsych programme will prepare you for professional practice in the application of this sub-discipline of psychology.
The programme is flexible and draws on the interests and expertise of Psychology academic staff, which means you’ll be working with up-to-date theory and practice. You’ll complete a supervised practicum that will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.
Programme structure
Students must complete 120 points in one year of full-time study. Part-time study is available at the discretion of the School of Psychology.
The following courses align with international standards for competence
in behaviour-analytic practitioners and New Zealand Psychologists Board.
60 points:
A supervised practicum (PSYCH 651 A and B)
30 points:
PSYCH 720: Research Topic in Psychology
15 points:
PSYCH 730: Professional Psychology Practice in NZ
15 points:
PSYCH 757: Advanced Applied Behaviour Analysis
The practicum component of this degree involves up to 1500 hours of supervised experience in an applied setting.
This programme structure is subject to final regulatory approval.
You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.
2025 entry requirements
My highest qualification is from:
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
-
Study optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 5.0
Masters degree in psychology, or equivalent prior study
Further programme requirements
Taught 120 points
You must have completed a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Psychology with a GPA of 5.0, and passed PSYCH 741, 749, 750, 751, 754, and 759 or equivalent courses.
You may also need to complete an interview, submit your academic transcripts, and provide letters of reference.
You must consult with members of academic staff in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) regarding the supervision of a proposed practicum, and the 700-level courses you intend to study before you apply.
You must complete the supplementary application form available on the School of Psychology’s website.
You should include the written approval of your proposed supervisors when you submit your application.
*In some cases, Psychology academic staff may require you to have passed particular courses in your masters degree. Therefore, if you haven’t yet completed your masters degree in Psychology, we advise you to plan carefully to ensure you include these required courses. If you are unsure which courses you should include, please consult with members of academic staff. Further information can be found here.
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
-
Study optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 5.0
Masters degree in psychology
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
Further programme requirements
Taught 120 points
You must have completed a one-year (or equivalent) masters degree, following an undergraduate degree, from a recognised university (or similar institution). You will need a GPE of 5.0.
You must consult with members of academic staff in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) regarding the supervision of a proposed practicum, and the postgraduate courses you intend to study before you apply.
You must complete the supplementary application form available on the School of Psychology’s website.
You should include the written approval of your proposed supervisors when you submit your application.
How much does a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Psychology cost per year?
2025 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$10,892.40*
- International students
- NZ$52,842*
Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
Find out about financial support information
Scholarships and awards
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances
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Cost of living
Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.
Key dates
Applications open 1 September
Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Application closing dates
- Semester One 2026
- 15 October 2025
Start dates
Here are the start dates for the programme.
| Semester One | Starts – 3 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 30 June |
| Semester One | Starts – 2 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 29 June |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
Where could this programme take you?
Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Psychology can look forward to meeting the requirements to become a registered psychologist and practising in New Zealand. If your area of interest is applied behaviour analysis, you can become registered with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Psychologists with this qualification who already have a Masters research thesis could enrol in a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
Jobs related to this programme
- Registered psychologist
- Registered Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) practitioner
- Potential for international registration with BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board)
Student career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Key Information for Students
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- 923 5025
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- 0800 61 62 63
- International
- +64 9 373 7513