Psychology Assistant Postgraduate Training

The Psychology Assistant training is currently being developed. The information provided here is accurate to the best of current knowledge. All details remain subject to final regulatory approval. This page will be updated as new information becomes available.

Last updated 22 September 2025.

Background

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) is developing a new postgraduate training pathway that builds on an undergraduate psychology degree – you can read the announcement of this new training here.

Psychology Assistants (a role previously referred to as Associate Psychologists) are a new workforce proposed by Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora as one of several initiatives to address the ongoing gap in mental health and addiction service provision in Aotearoa New Zealand. Psychology Assistants will be registered health professionals, registered by the New Zealand Psychologists Board (NZPB), who support and enhance psychological care within teams and under supervision.

The NZPB recently approved the Psychology Assistant scope and competencies, following a process of consultation with relevant stakeholders. You can read their announcement here and the scope, title, competencies, and supervision requirements here. The NZ Psychologists Board also confirmed that the new qualification will be a Postgraduate Diploma (120 points), open to applicants with at least a Bachelor’s degree in psychology. 

Development of the New Qualification

Any university wishing to offer a new programme of study must go through a multi-stage, peer-reviewed approval process, overseen by the Committee on University Academic Programmes (CUAP). This rigorous and collaborative process includes consultation with internal and external partners and ensures alignment with Te Tiriti o Waitangi. With the approved scope and competencies now in place for Psychology Assistants, UC has started this process.

UC is contracted to launch the programme at the earliest opportunity, which would be Semester 2, 2026 or later. There will be up to 20 places available in the first intake. Entry will include a formal selection process. 

The training will be workforce-focused, combining academic learning with practical training and placements delivered through purpose-designed courses. The programme is being designed so that students from across New Zealand can take part. Where possible, courses will be delivered online, with in-person components offered in block teaching to minimise travel. Students will also be required to complete placements, and it is intended that students will be able to complete these within students’ own communities and regions. 

Once accredited by the NZPB, the UC qualification will enable graduates to register with the NZPB as Psychology Assistants. Psychology Assistants who wish to upskill after graduation and gain work experience will have the option of returning to study and applying for further training, including pathways leading to registration as a psychologist.

Interested in joining this new training pathway? 

Contact us to register your interest. We will share updates on this page and reach out directly with any major news.