Graduate Certificate in Research (CRICOS course code 097842M) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Central Queensland University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for professionals seeking to develop research skills within the field of Teacher Education, specifically Vocational Education and Training. Delivered across six Australian campuses – Adelaide, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, and Mackay – the course offers flexibility to study in diverse regional and metropolitan settings. Indicative tuition is A$13,344, with no additional non-tuition fees, though costs for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application are separate. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, ensuring quality standards under the ESOS Act. Use this page to explore course details, entry expectations, and actionable steps to enrol.
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Graduate Certificate in Research (CRICOS course code 097842M) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C), a public university with multiple campuses in Queensland and South Australia. This course falls under the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Vocational Education and Training (070109). It is a standalone, single-qualification program (no dual or foundation study) with no mandatory work component. The course is taught in English and runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Designed for educators and trainers seeking to strengthen research capabilities, the program aims to equip graduates with skills to evaluate and improve vocational training practices. Central Queensland University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
This Graduate Certificate focuses on research methodologies relevant to vocational education and training (VET). While specific curriculum details are set by the provider, students at this level typically develop skills in designing and conducting research projects, analyzing educational data, and applying evidence-based methods to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. The program may cover topics such as research ethics, literature review techniques, and quantitative/qualitative analysis. As a Level 8 qualification, it is one level below a master's and above a bachelor's degree, requiring completion of coursework and a research project or dissertation. Graduates often pursue further research degrees (e.g., Master of Philosophy) or leadership roles in VET institutions. Note that this is a general overview – consult Central Queensland University for the exact syllabus.
The course duration is exactly 26 weeks (~6 months) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English, and the program is offered on a full-time basis. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies attached. Study mode may include face-to-face classes at one of six campuses or online options (subject to provider availability). Check with Central Queensland University for specific delivery modes for this course code. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fee for Graduate Certificate in Research is A$13,344 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register as at April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$13,344. Note: These fees exclude Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (see /visa/oshc-health-cover), living costs (approx. A$20,000–A$30,000 per year depending on city), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Fees are set by Central Queensland University and subject to change – always confirm on the provider's website: www.cqu.edu.au.
Entry requirements for this Graduate Certificate vary by provider. Typically, applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification. English language proficiency is required – common benchmarks are IELTS overall 5.5–7.0, depending on the course level and provider policy. For Vocational Education and Training specialization, prior experience in teaching or training may be considered. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course; however, Central Queensland University may offer alternative entry pathways – refer to their website. Always verify exact requirements with the institution before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement, internship, or practical training component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may still work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the program itself does not require any work hours.
Graduate Certificate in Research is offered at six Central Queensland University campuses across Queensland and South Australia. Each location offers unique lifestyle and cost-of-living contexts: Adelaide (Wayville, SA) – cultural hub with moderate living costs (approx. A$350–A$500 weekly rent); Brisbane (QLD) – major city with vibrant student life (rent A$400–A$600); Bundaberg (QLD) – regional centre known for agriculture (lower costs, rent A$250–A$350); Cairns (QLD) – tropical gateway to Great Barrier Reef (rent A$350–A$450); Gladstone (QLD) – industrial city with affordable living (rent A$250–A$350); Mackay (QLD) – coastal city (rent A$300–A$400). All campuses are accessible via public transport. These cities collectively host hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers, making them well-established for international students.
International students enrolling in this full-time course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and attendance. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your application: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Education), and city. Confirm Central Queensland University is CRICOS-registered (00219C). 2. Apply directly to Central Queensland University – Check entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit required documents (transcripts, passport, proof of English proficiency) via their online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you’ll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa online through ImmiAccount. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Wait for approval before traveling to Australia.
Consider whether this Graduate Certificate aligns with your career goals. If you are an educator or trainer in vocational education and wish to build research skills, this Level 8 qualification can open pathways to higher degrees (e.g., Master of Philosophy) or leadership roles. However, if you are seeking a course with a mandatory work placement or a longer duration, explore other options. Also factor in location – with six campuses, you can choose a city that matches your budget and lifestyle. Use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses across providers.
Ready to start your journey? Use HeadStart Academy to explore more courses and begin your application to Central Queensland University.
Graduate Certificate in Research is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.