Introduction

Structure & Content

To qualify for the award of Specialist Diploma in Psychology (Counselling Psychology), students are required to complete eight (8) units comprising:

Four (4) Core Units

• Psychology Around Us
• Human Development from a Psychologist’s Perspective
• Psychology: Statistics & Research Methods
• Critical Thinking in Social Psychological Context

Two (2) Specialisation Units in Counselling Psychology

• Counselling & Communication Skills
• Self-Awareness & Group Dynamics

Two (2) units from other specialisations

Specialisation in Business Psychology

• Applied Business Psychology
• Crisis Stress Management

Specialisation in Early Childhood Psychology

• Disorders of Infancy & Childhood
• Early Childhood & Development

Progression Pathway

Upon completion of this programme, students will be awarded the SMF Institute Specialist Diploma in Psychology. This Diploma is recognised by Edith Cowan University for advanced standing in the Bachelor of Science (Psychology) or Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) programmes with eight (8) units exemptions (120 credit points).

Duration

This part time programme can be completed in 10 months.

Assessment Methods

All units will be assessed through a combination of course work and examinations depending on the individual unit’s objectives. The proportion of marks attributed to coursework and final examination are at the discretion of individual lecturers and varies according to different units.

Intakes

January / April / July / October

Entry Requirements

• This is an industry-oriented programme and applicants are required to have a minimum of two (2) years working experience.

Applicants should also possess one (1) of the following:

• Full GCE ‘A‘ level, OR
• ITE Higher Nitec, OR
• High School Qualification equivalent to Year Twelve (12) in the case of international students, OR
• Certificates from recognised institutions, OR
• Having obtained the age of twenty-one (21) (Mature Age Entry) with employment background deemed suitable will be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in the English Language (EL1) or its equivalent:

• GCE ‘O‘ level with grade C6 & above, OR
• IELTS minimum band score of 5.5 (Reading and Listening 5.5) and (Writing and Speaking 5.0) OR
• TOEFL score of at least 525 (paper-based) or 200 (computer-based) or 70 (Internet-based)

Application Procedure

All applications must be submitted to SMF Institute of Higher Learning (SMF Institute) before the closing date. Each application package must contain the following items:
1. A duly completed application form affixed with one (1) passport-size photograph
2. Certified true copies of highest academic qualifications and relevant transcripts
3. Photocopy of NRIC (front and back)

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Fees & Funding