Graduate Certificate in Research
The overall aims of this specialist program are to develop skills and experience in research and to produce graduates that will, subject to satisfactory performance, become eligible for entry into Higher Degree by Research degrees. Specifically, Master’s by Research (Master of Philosophy) and Doctoral (PhD) degree.
The Graduate Certificate in Research is an alternative pathway to a Higher Degree by Research, and sits alongside traditional honours degree programs and honours equivalence arrangements. The Graduate Certificate in Research serves as a prelude to a higher degree in research or advanced professional practice in careers that entail complex research work. Graduates will obtain attributes that are equivalent to AQF level 8.
The research project allows the student to pursue an area of interest in some depth, whilst practising the investigative skills that are important in research. Elective courses will strengthen the student’s skills in finding the latest work published in their area of interest, and in assimilating and analysing this information, and developing quantitative or qualitative methodologies appropriate to the student’s research project and discipline area.
Course essentials
Entry requirements
Credit
Study mode
Online
Duration
Start dates
01 March 2027
19 July 2027
Locations
Berwick (on campus)
Camp St (on campus)
Gippsland (on campus)
Horsham (on campus)
Mt Helen (on campus)
Online
Course overview
The Graduate Certificate in Research provides the opportunity for you to begin your path to commencing a Higher Degree by Research (Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy). This specialist program is designed for students who hold existing qualifications, across a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds. You will develop skills and experience, incorporating a project that allows you to pursue an area of interest in depth, whilst practising investigative skills that are crucial in research. Elective courses in the Graduate Certificate in Research will strengthen your skills in finding the latest published works within your interest area, assimilating and analysing this information, and developing quantitative and qualitative methodologies appropriate to your research project and discipline area. As a successful graduate of this program, you will be able to demonstrate a range of skills, including critical analysis and evaluation, application of relevant research methodologies, creating practical works of art, writing, design or performance, and how to communicate proficiently as a research professional to a variety of audiences.
IT requirements
To do this course you’ll need a fast and reliable computer and access to high-speed internet. Expect to use about 5GB of data per month for every unit you’re doing. Find out more about the minimum IT requirements for studying with us.
Got questions?
Call us on 1800 333 864, start a live chat or submit an enquiry.
Student support
The support we offer is second to none. Need academic help? No problem. Extra access or financial assistance? Let’s see what we can do. View our student services.
The fine print
The commencement of all courses is subject to available funding and enrolment quotas.
Everything in this course overview is correct at the time of being published. However, the University reserves the right to alter any course, procedure or fee. Please check for changes before you apply or enrol.
Federation University uses Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding (for eligible students) to deliver training.
School department
Graduate Research School
Course co-ordinator
Online - Meghan Casey
Career paths
By developing skills and experience in research, graduates of this program (subject to satisfactory performance) become eligible for entry into Higher Degree by Research programs – specifically, Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy.
Fees and scholarships
Staff Study Scholarships: Staff may apply to have fees waived, subject to the approval of the GRS and any relevant institute.
Other fees
You will also need to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Scholarships
There’s a range of scholarships and grants available. Find out what you can apply for.
Course details
Start dates
Semester 2, 2026
20 July 2026
Locations
Ararat (on campus)
Berwick (on campus)
Camp St (on campus)
Gippsland (on campus)
Horsham (on campus)
Mt Helen (on campus)
Online
Semester 1, 2027
1 March 2027
Locations
Ararat (on campus)
Berwick (on campus)
Camp St (on campus)
Gippsland (on campus)
Horsham (on campus)
Mt Helen (on campus)
Online
Semester 2, 2027
19 July 2027
Locations
Ararat (on campus)
Berwick (on campus)
Camp St (on campus)
Gippsland (on campus)
Horsham (on campus)
Mt Helen (on campus)
Online
Information
- Our Mt Helen, SMB, Camp St and Gillies St campuses are located in Ballarat. Testing.
- Online learning is only an option if you’re not studying on an international student visa. Testing
Contact hours
You’d be looking at about 25-30 hours per week (if you’re full time), but this includes on-campus classes and self-directed study (i.e. homework).
Sample course structure
Here’s what the course structure could look like. It’s just an example (so don’t use it for enrolment). Interested in the details? You can find current course structure or select a single unit name below to find out what it’s about and how much it costs.
- Research Project30 credit pointsRESPJ4001
Electives
Meet us at Open Day
Open Day is your chance to explore all that Federation has to offer. Meet current lecturers and students, ask course questions, learn about our support services and explore campus spaces.
We’ve got heaps of activities, tours and presentations planned. Basically, we want you to get a real feel for Federation. The atmosphere. The opportunities. The community.
Oh – and there’s no need to pack a sandwich. Lunch is on us.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements (non year 12)
- Successful completion of Australian Master’s by Coursework in any field; or overseas equivalent, at a distinction level or extensive work experience in a related industry with an undergraduate degree, to be assessed on a case by case basis.
- Students who have completed a Bachelor degree, and also worked in industry for at least 5 years, may also be eligible for entry into the Graduate Certificate of Research. Prospective students with significant industry experiences should contact the Program Coordinator to discuss their eligibility for this degree.
- Eligibility for entry into a higher degree by research: The main purpose of the Graduate Certificate in Research is to be a pathway into higher degrees by research. For a student to become eligible for entry to either a Master’s by research, or PhD, they must have achieved the following minimum grades:
- For entry to Master's by research: whole of program course grade average = 70% (H2B equivalent), with at least 70% in the core project component.
- For entry to Doctor of Philosophy: whole of program course grade average = 75% (H2A equivalent), with at least 70% in the core project component.
- Choose your project and possible supervisorsYou should have some idea of what you’d like to research and ideally a list of potential research supervisors before you apply. Not sure where to start? Find inspiration (and contacts) at your favourite research centre and group. Your course coordinator can also help you find potential supervisors and projects.
Questions to help you decide on a research focus:- What research conversations do you enjoy and want to join?
- Which research methods or approaches interest you?
- What research skills would you need to develop?
- How could this research help you in your job or higher education ambitions?
You’ll need to complete a research proposal form that you have agreed on with your prospective supervisor.
2. Find electives that will develop your research skills and complement the project
You’ll need to select 30 credit points of electives to complement your research training and build your research skills. Discuss your elective choices with your supervisor and program coordinator.
Download your available electives here (PDF 153 KB).
3. Apply online
If you’re only applying for this course, do it via direct application.
Have you completed your research proposal form and are ready to fill out your application? You'll need this code: RE4
Once you formally accept your offer, contact your course coordinator to confirm any requirements before you begin, such as ethics approval, amendments, or lab safety training. You should also finalise your elective choices with your supervisor and course coordinator.
English language requirements
Overall IELTS band score of 6.5, with no band less 6.00
If you’re only applying for this course, do it via direct application.
Ready to fill out your application?
You'll need this code:
Direct application
Federation University code
- Direct application
- Yes
- Federation University code
- RE4