Why PCD?
- A unique diploma that combines psychology, community development and social sustainability
- Gain real-world experience in co-creating sustainable solutions with corporates and communities to maximise the social impact of business decisions
- Choice of two specialisations to expand your knowledge in key social sectors: Social Support Practice or Community Practice
- Choose one of two learning tracks in your final year – Professional Development or Innovation
- Get a head start on university through the NP-NUS Pathway, with opportunities to earn credits towards your degree
What is the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development about?
Go beyond understanding what makes people tick — use psychology to make a difference. NP’s Diploma in Psychology & Community Development (PCD) uniquely combines insights into human behaviour with community development skills, preparing you to design solutions that improve lives and build more inclusive, sustainable communities.
Learn to apply behavioural insights across businesses, public agencies and community organisations, addressing real-world challenges and creating positive social impact.
How will you put psychology into practice?
Start applying psychology from the outset through experiences such as the Community Kickstarter Programme. You will engage with different communities, uncover what shapes their behaviours and choices, and learn to respond to their needs with empathy.
In Year 2, take on real-world needs at the Behavioural Insights Bootcamp. Guided by lecturers and industry practitioners, you will apply psychology and behavioural insights to design practical programmes and solutions.
What specialisations and learning tracks do you have?
In Year 2, deepen your understanding of human behaviour and the social issues affecting different communities through two specialisations:
- Social Support Practice
Learn to support individuals and facilitate group activities through person-centred approaches that respond to their needs. - Community Practice
Learn to identify community needs, develop and evaluate programmes, and work with partners to address social challenges.
In your final year, choose from one of two curated tracks: Professional Development for immersive industry learning or Innovation for real-world projects that address societal needs.
How will PCD give you a head start in uni?
Get an early taste of university* by taking NUS modules while studying at NP. These modules may count towards your degree and help you fast-track your studies later.
*For selected students only
Further Studies
PCD gives you the flexibility to pursue a wide range of degree programmes, including psychology, social sciences, humanities and business.
Australia
- Griffith University
- Bachelor of Human Services
- Bachelor of Child, Youth and Family Practices
- Edith Cowan University
- Bachelor of Counselling
- Bachelor of Youth Work
- Bachelor of Social Science
- University of Queensland
- Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
- University of Western Australia
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Commerce
Toh Pei Ling
Business & Social Enterprise* graduate,
Class of 2022
Pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at SUSS.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Tay Hui Ann
Community Development* graduate,
Class of 2024
Recipient of the NCSS Social Service Scholarship. Pursuing Social Work at NUS.
* Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Careers
As demand grows across the community development, social services and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) sectors, PCD opens doors to meaningful careers such as:
- Community Care Associate/Assistant
- Community Development Executive
- Community Partnership Executive
- Programme Coordinator/Executive
- Publicity & Outreach Executive
- Social Sustainability Executive
- Social Work Associate/Assistant
- Corporate Wellness Executive
- Student Development Executive
- Health Promotion Executive
- Community Outreach Executive
- Corporate Social Responsibility Executive
- Social Impact Executive
With further education in psychology, social work and counselling, you can also look forward to practise as a:
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Community Development Manager
- Counsellor
Sheena Lim
Business and Social Enterprise* graduate, Class of 2011
Assistant Director at Fei Yue Family Service Centre (Yew Tee).
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Eu Shu Qi
Business and Social Enterprise* graduate, Class of 2015
Forensic Psychologist and Lecturer at Ngee Ann Polytechnic.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Entry Requirements
AGGREGATE TYPE ELR2B2-A
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must have the following GCE 'O' Level examination (or equivalent) results.
| Subject | 'O' Level Grade |
|---|---|
| English Language | 1-6 |
| Additional Mathematics/Mathematics | 1-7 |
| Any one of the 1st group of Relevant Subjects for the ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type | 1-6 |
Applicants must also fulfil the aggregate computation requirements for the ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type (English Language, 2 relevant subjects and 2 other best subjects) listed at www.np.edu.sg/ELR2B2.pdf.
For students with other qualifications, please refer to the NP website for the entry requirements and admissions exercise period.
What You Will Learn
PCD in 60 Seconds
Highlights
Growing a Changemaker Community
PCD graduate Imran Mean believes in making a difference in the community around him. This big-hearted youth founded a 380-strong volunteer group, known as the IM Volunteers Network, which focuses on welfare events such as meal distribution, fundraising and other social initiatives. The group has supported 200 events to date and now has a Malaysian branch that supports volunteering efforts across the Causeway!
Finding Purpose Through Service
Third-year PCD student and National Youth Achievement Award Gold Award recipient Solana Maria Mendoza discovered her passion for service through mentoring children from vulnerable families and supporting children with special needs. These experiences helped her gain confidence and a sense of purpose, shaping her journey forward.
Read the full story here!