Graduate Diploma of Research in Science and Engineering (CRICOS course code 115578B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification sits within the Natural and Physical Sciences field (019999) and is designed for students seeking to deepen their research skills across a range of scientific and engineering disciplines. Macquarie University, a government-funded CRICOS-registered provider (00002J), offers this course at its Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, NSW. Whether you aim to progress to a higher degree by research or enhance your career in science and engineering, this graduate diploma provides a solid foundation in research methodology and critical analysis. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses in Australia, Macquarie University stands out for its strong research culture and industry connections. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Graduate Diploma of Research in Science and Engineering (CRICOS course code 115578B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 1 year. This course is classified under the field of education 'Natural and Physical Sciences, n.e.c.' (019999) and is designed for international students who wish to develop advanced research skills in scientific and engineering contexts. The program typically includes coursework in research design, data analysis, and discipline-specific inquiry, preparing graduates for further research or roles in industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards and is subject to ESOS Act protections. Macquarie University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for research, located in Sydney's Macquarie Park innovation district.
This graduate diploma focuses on building research competency within the broad domain of natural and physical sciences. Students can expect to engage with research methodologies, quantitative and qualitative analysis, scientific communication, and project management. While the exact syllabus is set by Macquarie University, typical outcomes include the ability to design and execute a research project, critically evaluate scientific literature, and present findings effectively. The broad field (019999) allows for flexibility, so students may tailor their studies to areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, or interdisciplinary science. This level of study (AQF Level 8) sits between a bachelor's degree and a master's, making it ideal for graduates seeking to strengthen their research credentials before proceeding to a PhD or entering research-intensive employment.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. Macquarie University offers this as a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students will typically study full-time on campus at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde. The course is not available as a VET qualification (VET national code: N/A) and does not include a mandatory work component. Full-time study load allows international students to maintain their student visa compliance, including the requirement to complete the course within the registered duration.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$30,700 per year. Non-tuition fees amount to A$373, giving an estimated total of A$31,073. Please note: these are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fee schedules, always check Macquarie University's official website at www.mq.edu.au. As a guide, living costs in Sydney are around A$1,500–$2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle. OSHC typically costs several hundred dollars per year for single cover.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) for entry into this graduate diploma. Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field such as science, engineering, or technology. Some prior research experience may be advantageous. Macquarie University may offer pathway options such as foundation programs or English language courses for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. It is essential to check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements can vary. Note that meeting academic and English requirements does not guarantee a visa — students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory internship, placement, or work experience. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This flexibility allows students to gain part-time work experience while studying.
The course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. This campus is located in Sydney's north-west, part of the Macquarie Park precinct — a major hub for technology and business. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community, excellent public transport (including the Metro), and diverse cultural experiences. Over 200 CRICOS-registered providers operate in NSW, offering thousands of courses. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–$400, with groceries around A$80–$120 and a weekly transport pass about A$40–$50.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and education quality. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Sydney offers world-class education, a multicultural environment, and strong job prospects in science and engineering. However, it is also one of Australia's most expensive cities. Consider your budget: rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the university can exceed A$500 per week. Public transport is reliable, and the Wallumattagal Campus is well-connected via bus and the Macquarie University Metro station. If you prefer a lower cost of living, other Australian cities like Adelaide or Brisbane might be alternatives — but Macquarie University's reputation in research and industry links is a significant advantage. Think about your career goals and whether Sydney's fast-paced environment suits you.
Ready to advance your research skills? Explore this course on Macquarie University's website and take the next step towards your study in Australia.
Graduate Diploma of Research in Science and Engineering is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.