Graduate Certificate of Research Methods (Tropical Environments and Societies)

Information valid for students commencing in 2015.

Course code	114611
Version	1
Course type	Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8)
Division	Tropical Environments and Societies

Award Requirements

Course pre-requisites	Completion of at least an AQF level 8 qualification in a relevant discipline with a minimum grade point average of 5.0 (credit average) in the final year AND a grade of credit (65%) or better in a minimum of one advanced research methods or analysis subject; or other qualifications recognised by the University as equivalent.
Minimum English language proficiency requirements	Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.
Additional selection requirements	Quota restrictions on the number of places available may apply from time to time as determined by the College.
Special admission requirements	Nil

Credit points	12 credit points as per course structure.
Additional course rules	Nil
Additional completion requirements	Nil
Course learning outcomes	On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, graduates will be able to: Identify, investigate, analyse and synthesise a research problem applying appropriate methodological concepts and theories in a small-scale research project Apply knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the preparation of a successful ethics application for a research project Design, plan, conduct and complete a substantial research-based thesis with creativity and initiative and a high level of autonomy and accountability Analyse and interpret results from a research project, and critically evaluate and synthesise results in the context of contemporary research literature and / or demonstrate advanced knowledge of recent developments, discourses and debates in a relevant discipline area and/or related areas of professional practice Demonstrate a high standard of ethical conduct in research, exercising autonomy, responsibility, accountability, and well-developed independent judgement Communicate specialised knowledge, ideas and arguments accurately, coherently and creatively to a variety of audiences through written manuscripts and oral presentations.

RM8101:06 Research Planning in Tropical Environments and Societies

RM8102:06 Research Project in Tropical Environments and Societies

Expected time to complete	6 months full-time or equivalent part-time
Maximum time to complete	2 years
Maximum leave of absence	1 year

Course progression requisites	Nil
Course includes mandatory professional placement(s)	Not applicable
Special assessment requirements	Nil
Accreditation requirements	Nil
Maximum allowed Pass Conceded (PC) grade	Not applicable
Supplementary exam for final subject	Nil

Eligibility	Applicants who have achieved either a Conceded Pass or Pass in both RD7001 and RD7002 or a Conceded Pass or Pass in both RM7001 and RM7002 may be eligible to apply for advanced standing for this degree.
Maximum allowed	6 credit points
Currency	Advanced standing will be granted only for studies completed in the four (4) years prior to the commencement of this course.
Expiry	Advanced standing gained for any subject shall be cancelled six (6) years after the date of the examination upon which the advanced standing is based if, by then, the student has not completed the course of study prescribed for the degree.
Other restrictions	Not applicable

Award title	GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF RESEARCH METHODS
Approved abbreviation	GCertResMeth
Inclusion of majors on testamur	Not applicable - this course does not have majors
Exit with lesser award	Not applicable
Course articulation	Students seeking admission to a research higher degree should consult the University’s HDR Degree by Research Requirements. Students seeking admission to a Masters by Research must have obtained at least a GPA 5.0 (Credit) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods. To be eligible to apply for direct admission to a PhD, students must have obtained at least a GPA 6.0 (Distinction) for the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods, and have successfully completed an appropriate research methods subject at AQF 8 or higher.