Programme details

Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology

The Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychologyoffered by UC is designed for individuals aspiring to become registered psychologists specializing in child and family psychology.

Course description

Designed for prospective child and family psychologists seeking registration with Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa | New Zealand Psychologists Board, the limited-entry Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both academic study and professional development through practicums and internships. This program is part of the distinguished Te Kura Mātai Hauora | School of Health Sciences at UC, where students can acquire practical experience at the Pukemanu Centre, which delivers free counseling services to families in the Ōtautahi Christchurch area.

Occupational Registration

Certain occupations require registration by law in New Zealand. This programme leads to registration with New Zealand Psychologists Board.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 4 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

A Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology opens doors to specialized roles in mental health, education, and social services. Career opportunities include:

Child Psychologist
Family Therapist
School Psychologist
Child Protection Specialist
Community Program Manager

Entry requirements

Individuals interested in enrolling in the Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology are required to possess one of the following qualifications:

-a bachelor’s degree in Psychology,

-or any bachelor’s degree accompanied by either a Graduate Diploma in Arts or a Graduate Diploma in Science in Psychology.

Additionally, candidates must have successfully completed either a Postgraduate Diploma in Science or Part I of the Master of Science in Child and Family Psychology, or an equivalent qualification.

Furthermore, applicants must either be currently enrolled in or have completed a 120-point thesis in Child and Family Psychology as part of a Master of Arts, a Master of Science, or a PhD in a related field that has received approval from Amo Matua, Te Kaupeka Oranga | Executive Dean of Health.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements. University recognises the following English Language tests and courses:

International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) – including online and One Skill Retake
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) – including Home Edition and Paper Edition #
CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2) – including online
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE) – including online
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)
FluentIQ (*FluentIQ should be used where IELTS Indicator or TOEFL cannot be used)
LanguageCert
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)
Duolingo English Test (DET)