ApplyEnquire
Alphacrucis Logo link to homepage
Research

Graduate Certificate in Research Methods

Ready to explore the questions that matter to you? Develop essential skills in research design, methodology, and academic writing as you discover the principles and practices of advanced research in Theology, Business, and Education. Build a strong foundation for further postgraduate research and take the next step towards turning your curiosity into meaningful insights.

Course Duration
6 Months, 1 year 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
$2,825 per 10 credit points
FEE-HELP →
Subjects
2
Speak to enrolment advisorDownload Course Guide

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.

Through these areas of study, students develop an understanding of how research questions shape an investigation, how methodologies guide the research process, and how academic writing communicates ideas clearly. The program offers a foundation for those seeking to explore complex questions, deepen their engagement with their field, and prepare for the demands of 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

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.
Learn More
In this subject, students will gain an understanding of the difference between quantitative and qualitative approaches to research and will effectively construct and communicate a research project on a topic of their interest, which will inform and enhance their selected research field.
Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

Course Information

Download Graduate Certificate in Research Methods

*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.

Learning Outcomes

Field Constructs & Concepts

Research Principles & Methods

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

Higher Education Study

Completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in a related discipline by an authorised institution, as determined by the Program Director.

International Students – Language Requirements

IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 7.0 (with no score below 7.0 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 to the 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.

HDR 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.

  • Contact a prospective Supervisor with your research proposal

    As part of preparing a research proposal, you are required to secure a Supervisor whose expertise aligns with your proposed project. To initiate this process, please contact potential supervisors directly via email to discuss the project. If you require assistance identifying or contacting a suitable supervisor, please reach out to hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

  • Apply

    Once you have a proposal and a prospective supervisor, please complete the HDR Application for Admission form.

Key Dates
Semester 1
Research
January - June
Coursework
March - June
Semester 2
Research
July - December
Coursework
August - November

Note: The Graduate Research School offers two semesters each year. Research units run across the full semester, while coursework units are delivered within a shorter teaching period, typically commencing in March or August.

Semester 1 begins on the first Monday of January and concludes on the last Friday of June.
Semester 2 begins on the first Monday of July and concludes on the last Friday of December.

For census dates, please refer to the Higher Education Academic Calendar.

Talk to a course advisor

Tell us what you’d like to study, and we’ll help you explore your options and upcoming intakes.

First Name *
Last Name *
Email *
Phone *
Which school do you go to? *
What year are you in? *
What would you like to study after school? *
Anything you'd like to ask us? (optional)

Download your free course guide

Explore our courses, study modes and pathways, and get to know our students, alumni and faculty.

First name *
Last name *
Email *
Phone *
Readiness *
Questions for us?

Talk to a course advisor

Tell us what you’d like to study, and we’ll help you explore your options and upcoming intakes.

First name *
Last name *
Email *
Phone *
Readiness *
Questions for us?