Course Overview

About This Course

The Graduate Certificate in Research Design is a pathway into a research degree at Adelaide University, for people who have completed relevant research skills training but are not yet eligible to enter the Master of Research directly, or who would prefer further training in research design first.
It is open to people with a bachelor degree in any field who have already completed 0.5 years full-time equivalent of eligible research development courses, either through undergraduate study or through equivalent professional experience assessed and approved by the university on an individual basis.
You develop key skills in planning and preparing a research project, including how to write a research proposal, and examine effective methods for defining a clear, open-ended and rich research question. The certificate also explores approaches for communicating complex information and concepts, and familiarises you with relevant ethical frameworks and professional accountability standards.
High-level analytical and critical thinking skills are developed by examining research relevant to your own field, and you gain the specialised knowledge, skills and experience needed to conduct research at master's level.
The program is 24 units of core courses, taken over half a year across the Adelaide City, Magill, Mawson Lakes, Mt Gambier, Roseworthy, Waite and Whyalla campuses, with February and July intakes.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Adelaide

Mawson Lakes Boulevard, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095

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Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Tuition Fee

Commonwealth Supported

Duration

0.5 years full-time

Intakes

February, July

Study Mode

Full time or part time

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic students
Prerequisite: Completion of 0.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) of research skills development.
Assumed knowledge: None
SATAC code: AGC122
To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission:
• Higher education study — A completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher from a recognised higher education institution; OR
• Professional experience — Equivalent professional / employment experience.
• Additional requirements — Admission will be conditional on the availability of a suitable supervisory panel and resources to support the proposed research proposal development.

International students
Prerequisite: Completion of 0.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) of research skills development.
Assumed knowledge: None
Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum entry requirements:
• Higher education study — A completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher from a recognised higher education institution; OR
• Professional experience — Equivalent professional / employment experience.
• Additional requirements — Admission will be conditional on the availability of a suitable supervisory panel and resources to support the proposed research proposal development.
English language requirements (achieved within the two years before admission):
• IELTS Overall 6.5
• IELTS Reading 6
• IELTS Listening 6
• IELTS Speaking 6
• IELTS Writing 6

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Depending on your area of expertise, further research qualifications can open doors in a range of areas including:
• Healthcare and clinical research
• Education and academia
• Information technology and data science
• Government and policy research
• Scientific research and development
• Consulting services
• Environmental science and sustainability
• Finance and economics
• Creative practice

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units2 units

RESE6000

Research Project Definition

RESE6001

Research Planning and Proposal

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total cost of the Graduate Certificate in Research Design at Adelaide University?

Adelaide University publishes an indicative tuition fee of AU$22,550 for international students commencing in 2027. Because the program runs for less than a year, that figure is the total cost of the program. No additional non-tuition fees are listed.

How long does the Graduate Certificate in Research Design take to complete?

The Graduate Certificate in Research Design has a duration of 26 weeks.

Where is the Graduate Certificate in Research Design delivered?

The course is delivered at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus, located in Adelaide, South Australia, which is a location owned and operated by the provider.

What CRICOS code is associated with this course?

The Graduate Certificate in Research Design at Adelaide University has the CRICOS course code 117264D, and the institution's CRICOS provider code is 04249J.

Does the Graduate Certificate in Research Design include a work component or foundation studies?

No, the Graduate Certificate in Research Design does not include a work component and is not classified as a foundation studies course. It is also not a dual qualification.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

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