The Graduate Diploma in Research Methods is a 36-unit program that requires one year of full-time study, or the equivalent part-time.
The course provides students with high-level knowledge and skills in research methods as a pathway towards further learning at research higher degree level.
Students may choose to exit from the Graduate Diploma in Research Methods with the exit award of the Graduate Certificate in Research Methods, provided that they have met the requirements for that award.
Students will normally be required to achieve a GPA of at least 6.00 to be eligible to apply for research higher degree study.
Admission requirements
Applicants must normally hold an approved degree or equivalent qualification from an approved tertiary institution and have achieved a grade point average of 5.00 or greater. Under exceptional circumstances and subject to specific conditions, the Dean (Education) may admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature.
Admission to the course is subject to the relevant discipline area being able to provide suitable supervision for the program of study.
Course aims
The course aims to provide students with:
- high-level knowledge and skills in research methods as a pathway towards further learning at research higher degree level
- further depth and breadth of knowledge in their area of study
- the necessary knowledge, theoretical understanding and study skills to undertake original academic work with a theoretical and/or professional outcome
- the necessary knowledge to apply the principles of ethical practice in the conduct of research
- advanced skills in formal reading, academic writing and the presentation of research.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion graduates will be able to demonstrate:
- advanced knowledge of underlying academic principles and concepts in their area of study
- skills to independently plan research activities, manage their time, and present their research both orally and in writing
- the ability to apply contemporary, specialised knowledge and skills in research methods to undertake an independent research project
- a high standard of ethical conduct in their research
- the ability to critically evaluate and analyse complex issues and deploy evidence in support of a research output.
Credit
Credit may be granted for study undertaken in an approved Honours or postgraduate course or equivalent qualification, which has been completed at an approved institution
Program of study
To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Research Methods a student must complete 36 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study as discussed with their Course Coordinator:
Option topic
COMS9001 Communicating Research (4.5 units)
Option - Research Methods topics
Select at least 9 units of postgraduate or Honours Research Methods topics in consultation with the Course Coordinator.
Option - Research Specialisation topics
Select at least 4.5 units of postgraduate or Honours topics from the relevant academic discipline in consultation with the Course Coordinator.
Core - Research Project, Thesis or Dissertation topics
Select 18 units of postgraduate or Honours level research project, thesis or dissertation topics in consultation with the Course Coordinator.
