Course Summary
The Higher Diploma in Psychology is designed for non-psychology graduates who wish to gain a qualification that makes them eligible to become Graduate Members of the relevant professional society, The Psychological Society of Ireland. This is a pre-requisite for accredited professional training in psychology.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Candidates should normally have at least a Second Class Honours Grade I in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8).
It may be necessary to limit numbers, and candidates will have to satisfy a Selection Committee at interview. Previous study of psychology, although not a requirement is highly advantageous
The Additional/Supplementary Statement Question MUST also be completed during the online application. Relevant previous experience of psychology should be included in this statement.
For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.
International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.
• In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
• Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.
English Language Requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements.
Application Details
Closing Date: 14 March 2025
Non-EU Closing Date: 14 March 2025
Start Date 8 September 2025
Fees
The EU fee for this course is €6,630 (Year 1); €6,630 (Year 2).
The Non-EU fee for this course is €16,700.
Deposits
If your course required a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second semester fee payment in January.
EU student fee payment
Fees for EU students are payable in two equal instalments. First payment is at registration in August and the second in January.
International student fee payment
International Students can pay in two equal instalments once they have paid the appropriate deposit. The initial payment is due on registration and the balance usually by the end of January.
How can I pay?
You can pay by Credit/Debit card online or by credit transfer.
Questions?
If you have any questions on fee payment email our Fees Office at [email protected].
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
The Higher Diploma in Psychology is an entry-level qualification (equivalent to a degree). Completion of the programme entitles graduates to membership of the PSI or BPS a prerequisite for most postgraduate training or research programmes. Clear and comprehensive information on postgraduate opportunities and career development may be found on these national society websites at www.psychologicalsociety.ie/ or www.bps.org.uk.