What is a Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery)?
The Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery) is a higher degree by research designed for experienced master’s students who wish to become experienced scientists, researchers and industry professionals focused on bridging the gap between fundamental "bench" research and clinical "bedside" applications providing real-world solutions that improve health, biotechnology and scientific innovation. Focused on Translational Biological Discovery, the program combines advanced research with professional practice to explore how scientific discoveries can move beyond the laboratory to create meaningful impact across healthcare, biotechnology and the life sciences.Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate systematic and critical understanding in the profession by planning and generating a substantial and original contribution that advances scholarship for professional practice.
- Synthesise, apply, and analyse existing and new knowledge using critical thinking, digital literacy and problem solving to develop new concepts for advanced professional practice.
- Critically evaluate wide variety of research approaches and methodologies and select an appropriate research methodology and method(s) to conduct your research project.
- Plan and execute ethical research that demonstrate the capacity to scope, design, and conduct research projects independently.
- Use appropriate and coherent communication skills to report, present, publish and disseminate research data and findings to peers and the community.
- Exhibit autonomy, authoritative judgement and leadership in workplace research and advanced professional practice.
This course is delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 03389E.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery) are equipped to lead scientific innovation by translating research into practical outcomes across biotechnology, healthcare and the life sciences. By combining doctoral-level research with professional scientific practice, graduates develop the expertise to bridge discovery and application, supporting innovation, commercialisation and evidence-based advancement across research and industry.
The qualification is ideal for master's gradudates who further development to strengthen scientific leadership, accelerate the translation of biological discoveries into real-world solutions and contribute to the future of biotechnology and healthcare innovation. As demand grows for research that delivers measurable impact, graduates will be well positioned to influence scientific strategy, guide translational research and create meaningful change across research organisations, government and industry.
Subjects and units
Delivered both on campus and online, the Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery) comprises five core subjects, three electives and 16 thesis units, totalling 240 credit points. The course combines advanced research training with specialised study in Translational Biological Discovery and the completion of an independent research thesis. The course involves 20–30 hours of study per week, comprising 2–3 hours of facilitated study, 2–3 hours of independent research and 16–24 hours of self-directed study.
Core subjects
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Critical Literature Review | RES611
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Developing the Research Proposal | RES612
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Methodology and Research Design | RES613
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Preliminary Research Thesis | RES614
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Contemporary topics in Translational Biological Discovery | RES626
Requirements
Elective subjects
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Innovation Creativity and Entrepreneurship | MGT607
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Business Decision Analytics | MGT602
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Technology Strategy | MGT614
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Design and Business Strategy | DSG404
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Service Design | DSG405
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Design for Social Innovation | DSG501
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User Experience Design | DID602A
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Multi-Platform Experience Design | DID603A
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Design Studio | DSG406
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Open Studio | DSG502
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Design Leadership | DSG503
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Advanced Design Studio | DSG504
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User Research | DSG407
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Technology and Education | TED403
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Design Thinking | EEDUSD402
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Digital Health and Informatics | DHI401
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Digital Health Management | DHI402
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Advanced Health Informatics | DHI502
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Advanced Therapeutic Communication | ATC401
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Generative AI in Practice | BAN403
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Deep Learning | DLE602
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Statistics and Applied Analytics | STA601
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Distributed Development | DDE602
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Data Modelling and Database Design | MIS602
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Machine Principles | MLN601
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Foundations in Business Analysis | BANASD600
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Data Analytics in Business | BANASD601
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Visual Analytics and Storytelling | BANASD602
Thesis subjects
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Thesis Unit | THE601 to THE616
Research project
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.
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.
Applicants with formal study: Direct Entry
A person may be considered for direct entry admission to study for the degree of Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery) if they have been awarded from the University or other approved institution, based on prior cognate learning in the discipline of choice:
a) a relevant three or four-year Bachelor’s degree with a distinction average GPA; or
b) a relevant Honours degree; or
c) a relevant Master’s degree by coursework with a credit average GPA.
AND
Seven years’ practice at an advanced level in a position of responsibility or five years practice at an executive level and currently in a position of influence in the chosen profession,
OR
An extensive track record of executive achievement in the workplace or in professional practice.
Applicants with work and life experience
Students without a Master's degree may pathway to the Professional Doctorate (Translational Biological Discovery) with RPL based on:
Seven years' practice at an advanced level in a position of responsibility or five years' practice at an executive level and currently in a position of influence in the chosen profession in the area of cognate learning discipline;
OR
An extensive track record of executive achievement in the workplace or in professional practice in the cognate learning discipline;
AND
A discipline-specific portfolio based on competency-based learning and non-formal learning;
AND
A letter of recommendation from two most recent employers.
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.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 575 803.
Offer
We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.
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