Higher Degrees by Research

Graduate Certificate of Research Studies

CRICOS 108075F
Certificate of Research | Female working on laptop | Torrens University Australia | Large

What is a Graduate Certificate of Research Studies?

A Graduate Certificate of Research Studies offers the foundational theoretical and technical knowledge and skills in research.

During your studies you will undertake four research training units. You will gain an understanding of literature, future research requirements and research proposal writing, as well as the analytical and communication skills required in future research.

On completion you will be equipped to work in research-related fields and support researchers with foundation research skills.

Graduates at this level will have advanced knowledge and skills for professional, highly skilled work or further learning. They will have advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in one or more disciplines or areas of practice plus advanced cognitive, technical and communication skills, which they will use to analyse critically, evaluate, and transform information to complete a range of activities.

More

Learning outcomes

  • Critically analyse and evaluate complex issues in your chosen field of study to generate ideas for your scholarly research project proposal and a plan for implementation. 
  • Develop critical thinking, digital literacy and problem-solving skills to locate, gather, organise, synthesise high-quality, credible and relevant resources related to your chosen project statement. 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of variety of research approaches and methodologies used in conducting a research project. 
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the ethical implications of your research project proposal as it relates to undertaking research. 
  • Use high level written and verbal communication skills to structure, present and write a research proposal. 
  • Demonstrate professional skills including leadership, reflective practice, ongoing learning and accountability by planning an original research project proposal in the chosen field of study. 
Study mode
On campus, Online, Blended
Campus locations*
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Online
Student
Domestic
International
Course duration
Full-time: 6 months, Part-time: 1 year
Start date
15 Sep 2025
16 Feb 2026
01 Jun 2026
14 Sep 2026
Fee & scholarships

This course is delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 108075F.

*For more details on international student study options.

Transferable skills and a new career
Build upon your expertise, opening doors to unique career opportunities in academia and industry.

Gain course credit
Take your credits with you into a Master, Doctor or Professional Doctorate qualification.

Be a catalyst for change
Become an innovative changemaker by challenging current research and finding new ways forward.
Higher Degrees by Research careers

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.

Higher Degrees by Research at Torren University champions the power of people to connect the world for good. Our values begin and end with people, being good, being creative, being bold, being well and being global. There is at the core of everything we do.
Professor Margee Hume
Dean, Higher Degrees by Research (ProfDoc, MRS, GCRS)

Subjects and units

Delivered both on campus and online, the Graduate Certificate of Research Studies comprises four core subjects, each requiring 10 hours of study per week, comprising three hours of facilitated instruction and seven hours of self-directed study.

Requirements

Complete four core subjects.

Core subjects

  • Critical Literature Review | RES611
  • Developing the Research Proposal | RES612
  • Methodology and Research Design | RES613
  • Preliminary Research Thesis | RES614

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

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Research project

The Graduate Certificate of Research is comprised of four research training units. Under the guidance of experienced supervisors, your studies will culminate in the submission of a preliminary independent short thesis.

Entry details

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Please discuss these options with international and domestic admissions on application. For more information, please email HDR@torrens.edu.au

Admission criteria

Before you get started with your course application, check you meet all the requirements listed below.

A completed qualification at AQF level 7 (bachelor’s degree) or above from an Australian University or equivalent AND at least three year's 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. Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis as per the RPL policy.


Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Please contact the HDR Office at hdr@torrens.edu.au for more information.

Admission criteria

A completed qualification at AQF level 7 (bachelor’s degree) or above from an Australian University or equivalent AND at least three year's 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. Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis as per the RPL policy.

Academic IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent
OR alternative entry requirements may be available. Alternative entry may include assessment and approval of prior study, or successful completion of a readiness assessment. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a Higher Degree by Research (HDR)?
  • What is the application process?
  • What is required in a Higher Degree by Research?
  • What is the time commitment for a Higher Degree by Research?

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