Introduction

This Postgraduate Diploma is a professional qualification in Clinical Psychology and the first of its kind in New Zealand. It is made up of a strong practical component, which facilitates a greater understanding of real people and their experiences, and skill development.

A career as a clinical psychologist is a valuable profession; where people express their deepest feelings and entrust you to guide them to a positive transformation. Through helping individuals, this ultimately can help to shape a better society.

See also the Postgraduate Diploma in Organisational Psychology and the Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology for other opportunities at UC to become a registered psychologist.

Entry requirements

This is a limited entry programme. A special application is required. See 'How to apply' below for more details.

You will need to have either:* an honours degree in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts with Honours or Bachelor of Science with Honours); or

• Part I of a master's degree from an Aotearoa New Zealand university in Psychology (Master of Arts or Master of Science); or
• an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University and approved by the Head of School.

As part of your previous studies, you will need to have completed the below:* PSYC335 Abnormal Psychology OR PSYC379 Introduction to Psychopathology (or an equivalent course); and

• an approved 400 or 600-level research methods course.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet the New Zealand Psychologists Board requirements and provide evidence of IELTS (academic) 7.5, with no score less than 7.0.

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology.

Note: To be eligible for registration as a psychologist by the New Zealand Psychologists Board, applicants must have fulfilled the requirements which include a minimum level of academic attainment (a master's degree) and supervised practice hours. Concurrent enrolment in a master's thesis may therefore be required. Concurrent enrolment in a PhD is also possible with permission from the Director of Clinical Training.

How to apply

You will need to complete the Additional Information Form and upload it with your supporting documentation required to enrol via myUC.

Applications close on 19 September 2025 for the February 2026 intake.

Selection for the programme is competitive and is based on an assessment of the following indicators: academic merit; relevant experience; referee reports; and performance in an interview with a programme representative or representatives. The Selection Panel of the Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing may establish criteria to determine which applicants will be shortlisted for interviews.

The course is intellectually demanding so good academic ability is required (generally shortlisted applicants have a grade of B+ or higher in prerequisite courses). Clinical or clinically-related experience, research experience, and cultural awareness and sensitivity, with a focus on Te Tiriti (eg, te reo Māori, knowledge of tikanga and Te Ao Māori) is also preferred.

Students will be shortlisted in October based on the information provided. Shortlisted applicants will be asked to submit an audio recording demonstrating their reflective listening and empathic skills before attending a 'Selection Day' in November. This includes a welcome and brief meetings with UC staff, representatives of Ara Poutama Aotearoa, Purapura Whetu, and Te Whatu Ora Waitaha, and current programme students. Shortlisted applicants are notified of the outcome in early December.

See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.