Graduate Certificate of Research Studies

Torrens University Australia

CRICOS Institution Code 03389E

Duration

26 weeks

Delivery

On campus, Online, Blended

Study Load

Full time / Part time · 10 hours of study per week (made up of classes and self-directed study)

Intakes

14 Sep 2026

Graduate Certificate of Research Studies

Course Overview

About This Course

The Graduate Certificate of Research Studies offers foundational theoretical and technical knowledge and skills in research. Across four research training units, students gain an understanding of literature, future research requirements and research proposal writing, along with the analytical and communication skills required for future research, graduating equipped to work in research-related fields and support researchers with foundation research skills. Graduates develop advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in one or more disciplines or areas of practice, plus advanced cognitive, technical and communication skills used to critically analyse, evaluate and transform information across a range of activities.

Learning outcomes include critically analysing complex issues to generate ideas for a scholarly research project proposal and implementation plan, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills to gather and synthesise credible resources, demonstrating understanding of a variety of research approaches and methodologies, understanding the ethical implications of a research proposal, and using high-level written and verbal communication skills to structure and present a research proposal. Delivered on campus, online and in blended mode at Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and online, the course runs full time over six months or part time over one year, by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Brisbane

90 Bowen Terrace, Fortitude Valley, Queensland (QLD) 4006

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic students:

A completed qualification at AQF level 7 (Bachelor's degree) or above from an Australian University, or equivalent, AND at least three years' work experience OR
Work life experience demonstrating the ability to undertake study at the required level, which may include approval of prior study or non-formal qualifications (assessed case-by-case as per the RPL policy)

International students:

Same criteria as domestic students above AND
Academic IELTS 7.0 with skills band no less than 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL, CAE or PTE)

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be well-positioned to contribute to research projects or to work in research-related fields, supporting researchers with research skills in government, community, or commercial settings
The course content is designed to be tailored to suit current employment context or areas of interest

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units4 units

RES611

Critical Literature Review

Students learn practical planning, searching, recording, analysing, interrogating and writing skills for conducting a literature review. Develops mastery in identifying research gaps from the literature to establish future research directions, culminating in a project statement.

RES612

Developing the Research Proposal

Develops foundations of research, critical problem solving and evidence-based decision-making skills. Students understand the core structure of the research proposal and gain skills to communicate in a structured project proposal capturing emergent propositions.

RES613

Methodology and Research Design

Builds methodological literacy for higher degree research. Covers advanced topics in qualitative and quantitative research methodology and research design, resulting in the project research design.

RES614

Preliminary Research Thesis

Provides students with skills for planning, conducting, analysing and reporting for a research project, including responsible conduct of research and ethical review. Students report their project in a preliminary independent short thesis.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I study the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies at Torrens University?

The Graduate Certificate of Research Studies is available at multiple locations including Sydney (Surry Hills), the Blue Mountains (Leura), Melbourne (Flinders Street), Brisbane (Fortitude Valley), and Adelaide (Wakefield Street), as well as online.

When can I start the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies?

You can apply to start in Trimester 2, with enrolments closing on 12 June. It is recommended to apply as soon as possible to secure your place.

How do I apply for the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies at Torrens University?

You can apply online through Torrens University's application process, which takes approximately 5–10 minutes to complete. There are no application or administration fees for domestic students (excluding some courses), and you can expect to receive a conditional offer within one business day of submitting your application.

Who can I contact for more information about the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies?

You can contact a dedicated Future Student Advisor by calling 1300 575 803 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm AET), emailing futurestudents@torrens.edu.au, or by completing the enquiry form on the Torrens University website. If calling from outside Australia, dial +61 2 7253 7533.

Is the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies available online?

Yes, the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies is available online, in addition to being offered at Torrens University's campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and the Blue Mountains.

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!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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