University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The programme focuses on contemporary diagnostic frameworks, standardised assessment tools and the clinical reasoning required for differential diagnosis across the lifespan. Core topics include developmental characteristics of autism, interview and observation methods, administration and interpretation of commonly used instruments (for example, observational assessment and caregiver interviews), formulation and report writing, and the role of comorbidities.

• Assessment methods and tools: training in structured observational assessments, clinical interviewing techniques, and administration of evidence-based instruments used in diagnostic practice.
• Developmental and differential diagnosis: recognising presentation across age groups, identifying co-occurring conditions, and distinguishing autism from other developmental or behavioural profiles.
• Multidisciplinary practice and service systems: working effectively in teams, referral pathways, and coordination with education and community services.
• Communication, ethics and family-centred practice: culturally responsive engagement with clients and families, informed consent, and ethical considerations specific to diagnosis.
• Report writing and clinical documentation: formulation, feedback to families, and planning recommendations linked to intervention and support.

The Graduate Certificate is typically structured as a short coursework program comprising a small number of postgraduate units, suitable for part-time study and offered with flexible delivery modes such as intensive on‑campus workshops combined with online learning and supervised clinical practice components where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as clinical psychology, psychology, speech pathology, occupational therapy, nursing, social work, medicine or education, or to have equivalent professional experience. Current professional registration or membership with an appropriate regulatory or professional body is usually required for clinicians seeking supervised diagnostic practice.

• Academic transcript demonstrating completion of a recognised bachelor degree or equivalent.
• Relevant professional background in health, allied health, education or related fields; applicants without a directly relevant degree may be considered on the basis of significant clinical experience.
• Curriculum vitae and a brief statement outlining clinical experience, reasons for undertaking the programme, and how it will be applied in professional practice.
• Evidence of English language proficiency where the applicant’s previous study or practice was not conducted in English, in line with university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to contribute to diagnostic services and assessment teams in a range of settings. Typical roles and pathways include:

• Diagnostic clinician within child development centres, community health services, hospitals or specialist autism assessment clinics.
• Allied health or clinical staff providing assessment-informed recommendations in early intervention, school settings or multidisciplinary teams.
• Private practice clinicians offering assessment and diagnostic consultation (where local regulations permit).
• Policy, service development and program coordination roles that require an understanding of diagnostic pathways and service needs.
• Progression to further postgraduate study or research in autism, developmental disorders or clinical practice.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA offers a multidisciplinary learning environment with access to experienced clinicians and researchers working across health and education sectors. The university’s programs emphasise evidence-informed practice, clinical reasoning and culturally responsive approaches relevant to diverse populations.

• Opportunities to learn from staff engaged in clinical work and autism research, providing contemporary perspectives on assessment and service delivery.
• Flexible delivery designed for working professionals, combining online modules with practical workshops and supervised components where available.
• Connections to clinical partners and community services in Western Australia that support applied learning and professional networking.
• Access to UWA’s libraries, online resources and student support services to assist with learning, professional development and next-step career planning.