Graduate Diploma of Research Studies

The Graduate Diploma of Research Studies at Torrens University Australia is a one-year qualification for graduates who want to learn how to do research properly before committing to a master's or doctorate. You'll study research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, literature review technique, research ethics, and how to write for academic audiences. In the social sciences and psychology, that means getting comfortable with methods like interviews, surveys, thematic analysis and basic statistical work, and understanding why you'd choose one over another.

Australian graduate diplomas sit at AQF Level 8, one step above a bachelor degree and below a master's. This one runs for one year full time, usually across two or three study periods depending on how the university structures its calendar. You'll complete a set of core research units and, in most cases, a supervised research project or minor thesis where you apply what you've learned to a real question. Assessment is a mix of written work, methodology assignments and that final project. Some students use the graduate diploma as a pathway into a master's by research or a PhD; others use it to build research skills for their current job.

Expect small classes and close supervision. You'll learn to frame a research question, find and critique the existing literature, collect and analyse data, and present findings clearly. Those skills travel well. Government agencies, community organisations, health services and market research firms all need people who can read evidence and produce it. The qualification doesn't lead to registration as a psychologist, that requires an accredited sequence of study, which this is not, but it does prepare you for research roles and further study.

This course suits three groups: recent graduates who want a research edge before a master's, professionals in social services or policy who need to evaluate programmes and data, and anyone considering a PhD who wants to test the water first. Entry usually requires a bachelor degree or equivalent, and international applicants need to meet English requirements, IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common coursework-postgraduate standard, though check the official page because some fields ask for more. While studying, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after graduating may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 109130G. Confirm all details with Torrens University before applying.

• Research assistant, universities, medical research institutes, social policy centres
• Policy officer, state and federal government departments, local councils
• Programme evaluator, not-for-profits, community health organisations, international development agencies
• Data and insights analyst, market research firms, social enterprises, consultancies
• Project officer, community services, education providers, advocacy groups
• Further study, master's by research or PhD, leading to academic or senior research roles