Postgraduate research courses have an intensive research component. Through the research process you will extend your understanding of a subject area and develop advanced analytical and project management skills as well as the ability to work independently.

Successful completion of a research degree indicates to a prospective employer that you have excellent project and personal management skills, and that you can think independently and critically, solve problems and communicate effectively.

Research doctorates (including PhD)

These consist of a research project mutually agreed upon by a student, supervisor, head of school and the Board of the Graduate Research School. The programs require the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as the result of a new theory.

A thesis at this level will demonstrate, in the context of a substantial and original contribution, mastery of the subject as well as a furthering of understanding in that field of knowledge, through the discovery of knowledge, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.

The thesis arising from the research should show a student's ability to document and interpret results, to formulate theories, and to discuss the results in the light of the current literature to a level of competence required in published materials.

Some research doctorates also include a structured coursework component and are designed to provide high-level research training to professionals in particular fields. These courses include the Doctor of Education, the Doctor of Juridical Science and the Doctor of Podiatry.

Master's by research

A master's by research is a supervised degree for which a thesis represents 100 per cent of the degree requirements. Some master’s by research courses include creative work (creative writing, fine arts or music). For these degrees, assessment is based on creative work only. A master's thesis must be a substantial work, generally based on independent research that shows:

• sound knowledge of the research subject
• evidence of independent thought
• an ability to use clear and concise language

Master's by thesis and coursework

A master's by thesis and coursework recognises your thorough understanding of a research field or area of professional practice. A master’s by thesis and coursework includes a dissertation component that represents 66.6 per cent or more of the degree requirements.

Graduates possess a range of academic and vocational attributes such as:

• advanced knowledge of a specialist body of topics
• high-order skills in analysis, critical evaluation and/or professional application through the planning and execution of project work or a piece of scholarship or research
• creativity and flexibility in the application of knowledge and skills to new situations
• an ability to solve complex problems and think rigorously and independently