Graduate Diploma in Addiction and Mental Health

Investigate pathways to wellbeing

Addiction and mental illness are two of the biggest concerns in today’s world. Both are rampant and taking enormous tolls on individuals and society.

Our Graduate Diploma in Addiction and Mental Health provides a broad understanding of these issues and their treatment. What are the underlying causes of addiction and mental ill health? How can we mitigate harm, support recovery and treat more than just symptoms?

What will you do?

  • Study the scientific bases of addiction, mental illness and related comorbidities.
  • Investigate evidence-based treatments and interventions.
  • Compare and analyse mental health and addiction data.
  • Explore relevant national policy.
  • Build advanced research skills.

Where could it take you?

This diploma will be beneficial to a range of professions that interact with addiction and mental health. These might include medical practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers, pharmacists, educators, law enforcement officers and counsellors. You could also take on senior roles in a drug and alcohol organisations. You might design and implement educational campaigns and programs. Perhaps you’ll advise on policy or work in public health research.


  • 16% industry growth predicted by 2025^
  • 1 in 5 Australians has mental health issues*
  • Discover the science behind addiction and mental health

^Imip.gov.au Occupation projection
*The National Health Survey 2017-18

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GD054
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake February
Additional Entry Requirements
All applicants must upload the following documents as part of the SATAC application: * Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelors degree or equivalent and relevant work experience.

  • Admissions Transparency Data
    Student Profile
    Applicant background Semester one/Full year intake 2023
    Number of students Percentage of all students
    International students N/A N/A
    All students 4 100.0%

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Apply

Fees and Scholarships

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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Australian Full-fee place: $27,000

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

FEE-HELP
This is an Australian full-fee program. As a domestic student you may be eligible to:

  • receive a zero interest government assistance package to cover your course fees and
  • use over $100,000 in HELP assistance over your lifetime
Check your eligibility today at Study Assist

Scholarships

Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.

Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.

To browse scholarships offered by the University, visit: University Scholarships

To explore scholarships offered by organisations external to the University, visit: External Scholarships

Careers

Career Readiness

Graduates are prepared for senior roles in mental health and addiction in practice, research and management.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.
  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Public Health;  Public Health Officer;  Social Worker;  Health Educator;  Health Officer;  Health Promotion Professional;  Therapist

Degree Structure

Students complete 4 core courses in Addiction and Mental Health.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Example Study Plan

Indicative study plan
Year 1 PHARM 7011EX Drug Effects and Biology of Addiction PHARM 7012EX Pharmacotherapy and other Responses to Drug Problems
NURSING 6205HO Mental Health NURSING 6204HO Coexisting Addiction and Mental Health

Assessment

May include essays, case studies, annotated bibliographies, exams, study portfolios, tutorial participation and other assignments

Testimonial

You will learn about emotional depth and how to support others, it is also an opportunity to reflect on yourself and grow as a person. My favourite aspect of the program has been the opportunity to counsel trained actors as if they are real patients.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Tuesday, 10 Oct 2023