Graduate Certificate in Educational Research

CSU's Graduate Certificate in Educational Research provides an introduction to research methods used in the field of education.

Why study this course?

CSU’s Graduate Certificate in Educational Research consists of an overview of common educational research methods, followed by a more in-depth focus on qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Subjects in this course provide a basis for the development of a research proposal and a literature review. The course provides an excellent general introduction to research for students of education and related fields. It also prepares students who want to undertake a research project and dissertation and provides a pathway for entry into the Bachelor of Educational Research (Honours).

Students will develop an appreciation of the nature and diversity of educational research and an understanding of commonly used methodologies in educational research and their strengths and limitations. They will become aware of ethical issues and other challenges facing educational researchers and develop skills in reviewing research literature. Graduates of this course will have an appreciation of ways in which research can enhance professional practice and they will be able to critically reflect on assumptions about research.

Graduation requirements

To graduate from CSU’s Graduate Certificate in Educational Research, students must satisfactorily complete 32 points.

Academic expectations

For each 8 point subject at CSU, students should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Students will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

Where applicable, students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs involved in workplace learning experiences, or attending residential schools (distance education students).

Expectations relating to academic, workplace learning, time and cost requirements for specific subjects are provided in the subject abstracts and in course materials.