Psychology

Course Overview

The HDipPsych (Full) is a two-year, full-time programme for graduates who have already received a higher degree in a field other than Psychology but who wish to pursue Psychology as a career option. By completing the HDipPsych (Full), you will cover course content equivalent to that of the University of Galway BSc Psychology programme.



The HDipPsych (Full) is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and thus satisfies the requirements specified by PSI for graduate status in Psychology. The programme qualifies graduates for entry to postgraduate professional programmes in Ireland and the United Kingdom.



Note, the HDipPsych (Full) programme might also be an appropriate course for students with a psychology background which does not consist of PSI recognised modules. If in doubt, applicants are recommended to direct queries to the PSI on this matter.



Course Outline

The programme provides detailed training in the science of psychology. Students take modules from the BSc Psychology second- and fourth-year programme.



The modules on offer include those on the psychology of learning; memory and cognition; developmental psychology; perception, attention and performance; biological psychology; issues in cognitive neuroscience; applied organisational psychology; social psychology; health psychology; psychological measurement (theory and practice); advanced research methods (both quantitative and qualitative); and computer skills training (SPSS).



Students take part in a series of experimental workshops throughout the two academic years and, in addition, are required to complete a research project under supervision in their final year. Students may also choose elective modules across both academic years.

The programme is intended for graduates with at least a Second Class Honours level in any field other than Psychology. Places are awarded on the basis of academic merit. The two-year HDipPsych (Full) is not intended for graduates who have the BA (Joint Honours) with Psychological Studies from University of Galway (or its equivalent as deemed by the College of Arts). This is intended to be completed by the one-year full-time HDip in Psychology (Conversion).



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The HDipPsych (Full) is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and thus satisfies the requirements specified by PSI for graduate status in Psychology.

How to apply

We encourage all applicants to apply as early as possible.



Review/Closing Dates (for Taught Programmes)

For most programmes, University of Galway does not set specific closing dates for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotas will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle with the exception of applications for some programmes which are reviewed after the specified closing date. Candidates who do not have their final degree marks available may be made a conditional (provisional) offer.



Online Application

Applications to most postgraduate programmes at University of Galway are made online via www.universityofgalway.ie/apply (see "Application Weblink").

2 years full-time.

Next start date: September 2024.



Review/Closing Dates (for Taught Programmes)

For most programmes, University of Galway does not set specific closing dates for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotas will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle with the exception of applications for some programmes which are reviewed after the specifed closing date*. Candidates who do not have their final degree marks available may be made a conditional (provisional) offer.

Career Opportunities

This programme provides an excellent foundation for further postgraduate courses of study and careers in a variety of areas. Completing this diploma will enable a graduate to gain access to further training to become a professional psychologist (e.g., a clinical, counselling or occupational psychologist) or to undertake a research degree in psychology (e.g., a PhD in Psychology).