Graduate Diploma of Research Methods [Tropical Environments and Societies]

Information valid for students commencing in 2015.

Course code	114106
Version	1
Course type	Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8)
Division	Tropical Environments and Societies

Award Requirements

Course pre-requisites	Completion of at least an AQF level 7 bachelor degree in a relevant discipline, with a minimum grade point average of 5.0 (credit average) in the final year; 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	24 credit points as per course structure
Additional course rules	Nil
Additional completion requirements	Nil
Course learning outcomes	On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma 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

Note: Optional subjects will be determined in consultation with research supervisors and will be put on the student’s study plan.

Select 6 credit points of any postgraduate Research Methods subject/s

Select 6 credit points of any postgraduate subjects

Expected time to complete	1 year full-time or equivalent part-time
Maximum time to complete	3 years
Maximum leave of absence	1 year

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

Eligibility	Eligibility for advanced standing will only apply to students who have completed the JCU Graduate Certificate of Research Methods [Tropical Environments and Societies]. These students may apply for advanced standing for previous tertiary study in accordance with the Advanced Standing and Articulation policy and associated procedures.
Maximum allowed	Students who have completed the Graduate Certificate of Research Methods [Tropical Environments and Societies] may be eligible for up to 12 credit points of advanced standing for equivalent subjects.
Currency	Advanced standing will be granted only for studies completed in the 10 years prior to the commencement of this course.
Expiry	Advanced standing gained for any subject shall be cancelled 13 years after the date of the examination upon which the advanced standing is based if, by then, the student has not completed this course.
Other restrictions	Not applicable

Award title	Graduate Diploma of Research Methods
Approved abbreviation	GDipResMeth
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 Diploma 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 Diploma of Research Methods.