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Research

Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours)

CRICOS: 108380H

Are you ready to deepen your expertise and prepare for advanced research in Theology, Business, or Education? The Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours) is designed to equip you with specialised knowledge and research training, providing a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, including PhD (Doctoral) programs. This program integrates a Christian worldview with discipline-specific expertise, preparing you to address complex issues with innovative solutions.

Course Duration
1 year full time, up to 2 years part time
Study Modes
Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*, Hobart*, Korean 한국어학부
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$2,650 per 10 credit points
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Subjects
80 credit points
Speak to enrolment advisorDownload Course Guide

What is the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours)?

The Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours) is a comprehensive one-year (full-time) program that offers advanced training in research and specialised knowledge in the fields of Theology, Business, or Education. This course is perfect for individuals seeking to enhance their problem-solving and communication skills while gaining in-depth expertise in their chosen discipline. Through rigorous coursework in research and a significant research thesis, you will develop the ability to provide creative solutions to complex issues facing our world, effectively transferring knowledge to a variety of audiences.

Who is this for?

Are you passionate about deepening your knowledge in Theology, Business, or Education?

Do you aspire to conduct advanced research and contribute innovative solutions to complex issues?

Are you looking for a program that prepares you for doctoral studies and advanced professional roles?

Do you want to integrate a Christian worldview with specialised discipline expertise?

If these aspirations resonate with you, the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours) is waiting for you!

Outcomes

Prepare for doctoral studies, including PhD programs, by gaining advanced research skills.

Equip yourself for specialised roles within church, education, not-for-profit, commercial, or government organisations.

Develop the ability to address complex issues with innovative solutions, integrating a Christian worldview.

Be prepared for positions requiring high-level problem-solving and communication skills.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Accreditation

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core Subjects
3 Subjects
80 Credit Points
Honours Research Methods RES402

This subject equips students with critical skills necessary for advanced study and contribution to their field. It covers important topics from constructing a literature review to framing methodological orientations and designing research projects. Students will learn to compose effective research questions, navigate ethical considerations, and prepare a detailed research proposal.

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Honours Research Thesis RES403
Developing an honours research thesis is an invaluable opportunity to deepen your understanding and expertise in a specific field. This subject supports students in refining their descriptive, critical, and analytical skills as they engage deeply with peer-reviewed literature and defend their chosen methodologies. The capstone project involves constructing and delivering a comprehensive research thesis that demonstrates clarity, structure, and critical insights.
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XXX406 Advanced Studies in Discipline Area
Advanced Research in Theology THE406

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Advanced Research in Education EDU406

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Advanced Research in Business BUS406

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

Students are usually required to find their own workplace/ employer/ mentor to be approved by AC. In some cases, a new aspect within a student’s current paid employment may be suitable as a work placement.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

Download Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Honours) Handbook

What people say

  • Melissa Brown

    PhD Candidate (Education)

    I am thoroughly enjoying my study with AC. My supervisors are experts in the field, who model both academic rigour and pastoral support in our regular meetings. Because they show such a genuine interest in my research and in me as a student, I am continually encouraged to face the challenges of postgraduate and keep going!

  • Johannes Luetz

    Faculty

    At AC, we are committed to research created for good that makes a positive and transformative impact in society. Through our research centres, world class career researchers and HDR candidates, exciting opportunities are available in a wide range of discipline areas.

  • Rob Waugh

    Masters of Leadership

    I did several subjects online during my Masters studies and can vouch for the great online content. The content was very clear and easy to engage with… I absolutely loved it, particularly the leadership subjects. They have given me a really strong grounding and foundation for what’s next.

    • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • Integrated understanding of key issues, theoretical concepts and practices within the discipline area.
    • Knowledge of various approaches used in the discipline area within the Christian worldview framework.

    Skills

    • Critically apply knowledge developed for use in the discipline area.
    • Use critical, evidenced based and innovative thinking skills to analyse and synthesise ideas and theories from other disciplines related to the discipline area.
    • Design a research question that explores an original and complex issue and propose solutions.
    • Communicate effectively ideas and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences.
    • Identify and critically evaluate new developments and scholarship in the discipline area.

    Ability

    • Apply the knowledge and skills developed within the selected research field to engage with new questions and find innovative and creative solutions.
    • Work independently and responsibly in the selected research field.
    • Effectively design, implement and communicate a major honours thesis in the selected research field to contribute original knowledge and expertise to peers and the community.
    • Develop an advanced level of integrative reflection which will inform and enhance professional practice.

    Pathways

    Bachelor of Ministry

    12 Core + 7 Restricted Electives + 5 Electives
    Find out more

    Bachelor of Arts

    2 Core + 8 Major Specialisation + 4 Minor Specialisation + 10 Electives
    Find out more

    Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

    240 Credit Points; 80 000 word research thesis (240 credit points) in area of specialisation – Core
    Find out more

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in a relevant field with an overall GPA of at least 2.8.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 7.0 (with no score below 6.5 in any of the four skills areas).

     

    Additional Information

    Proof of Identity

    Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification:

    • Birth Certificate
    • Passport (current and valid)

    A supporting document must be submitted in addition tot he identity document if an applicant’s name is different on their primary document. (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate)

    Applicants may be required to provide a certified copy of their identity documents upon request.

    AC does not accept a driver’s license or photo card as sufficient ID.

    BAS Honours Application Process

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements. If you have any questions about our programs or would like to discuss a prospective research project further, please let the Graduate Research School know by contacting hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

    • Produce a Research Proposal

      Complete the Research Proposal Template found here (see sample proposal 1and sample proposal 2). This proposal will need to be uploaded to your application form.

    • Submit and Expression of Interest Form

      Complete the Expression of Interest form to commence the application process. The Graduate Research School will review the Expression of Interest form and contact you if any further information is required.

    • Apply

      If your Expression of Interest form is accepted, the Graduate Research School will contact you directly with a link to complete your course registration.