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Research

Graduate Certificate in Research Methods

 The Graduate Certificate in Research Methods (GCR) is a two-unit program designed to introduce students to the principles and practices of advanced research in the broad fields of Theology, Business, and Education. It provides essential training in research design, methodology, and academic writing, equipping students with the foundational skills needed for further postgraduate research.

Course Duration
6 Months
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
Feb (S1), July (S2)
Fees
$5,300 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects
2
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What is the Graduate Certificate in Research Methods?

 The Graduate Certificate in Research Methods (GCR) is a two-unit program designed to introduce students to the principles and practices of advanced research in the broad fields of Theology, Business, and Education. It provides essential training in research design, methodology, and academic writing, equipping students with the foundational skills needed for further postgraduate research.

Who is this for?

The GCR is particularly suited for students who wish to pursue higher research degrees but require structured preparation. Successful completion of the program provides a direct pathway into the Master of Philosophy (MPhil), where students can extend their skills through independent research leading toward a PhD.

Through coursework taught by experienced researchers, candidates gain the ability to critically evaluate scholarly literature, formulate research questions, and apply appropriate methods within their discipline. This training equips graduates to engage confidently with the challenges of advanced academic study and research.

Outcomes

Graduates at this level will have advanced cognitive, technical and communication skills to select and apply methods and technologies to:

  • Analyse critically, evaluate and transform information to complete a range of activities
  • Analyse, generate and transmit solutions to complex problems
  • Transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to others

Graduates at this level will apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement and adaptability and responsibility as a practitioner or learner.

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
2 Subjects
40 Credit Points
Research Methods RES701
This subject is the foundational class for all MPhil studies. Students will be taught advanced research skills across the main disciplines of theological and ministry studies. They will also develop some of the early research of what will become their major project.
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XXX706 Advanced Studies in Discipline Area (choose 1 of the following subjects based on your area of specialisation)
Advanced Research in Business BUS706

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 EDU706

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 Theology THE706

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.

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.

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Learning Outcomes

Theoretical Engagement

Evaluate, synthesise, and critically engage theoretical knowledge in the discipline.

Methodological Analysis

Critically evaluate a range of research methodologies and make an informed judgment on the most suitable one for a chosen project.

Communication

Effectively communicate complex ideas, concepts, and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.

Inquiry & Application

Articulate new questions and apply the knowledge and skills developed within the discipline area.

Professionalism

Work independently, responsibly, and with the integrity expected of a higher education researcher.

Research Design

Design a research project to generate new knowledge in the discipline area.

Admission Criteria

Entry Requirements

International Students – Language Requirements

IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 7.5 (with no score below 7 in any of the four skills areas, and a score of no less than 8 in speaking and listening).

Higher Education Study

Applicants to this degree should normally have completed a prior research paper/thesis of 12,000 words or more. In some cases, peer reviewed publications (e.g. journal articles) may be accepted in lieu of a prior thesis.

Completion of an AQF Level 8 Bachelors (Honours 1 or 2a) degree in a relevant field, or equivalent.

OR

Completion of an AQF Level 7 bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or equivalent, as well as an AQF Level 8 graduate diploma in a relevant field with at least a 20 credit point research component and an overall GPA at least 2.8.

OR

Completion of an AQF Level 9 or above postgraduate qualification in a relevant field, or equivalent.

How to Apply

  • Get Started

    Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

  • Apply

    It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

  • Offer

    We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

Key Dates
Semester 1
Term 1
February / March
Term 2
April
Semester 2
Term 3
July / August
Term 4
November