Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This short graduate programme introduces core concepts and skills for rigorous, ethical education research. It typically comprises a sequence of units covering research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis, literature review and research ethics. Students learn to frame research questions, develop a research proposal, and apply appropriate analytic techniques to education data.

• Research Design in Education – principles of research planning, types of research (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods), and aligning questions with methodologies.
• Qualitative Methods – interview and observation techniques, coding, thematic analysis and trustworthiness in qualitative studies.
• Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis – basics of measurement, descriptive and inferential statistics, and interpreting results for educational decision-making.
• Literature Review and Academic Writing – systematic approaches to reviewing evidence, synthesising findings and preparing a research proposal.
• Research Ethics and Professional Practice – ethical considerations in school-based research, human research ethics applications and working with children and vulnerable groups.

Delivery is often flexible, with a mix of on-campus and online classes, workshops and supervised research activities. The program is designed to be completed quickly and to articulate into further postgraduate research study or coursework.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a recognised bachelor degree in any discipline or equivalent tertiary qualifications. Applicants with a graduate diploma or substantial professional experience in education or a related field may also be considered. International applicants must meet ACU's English language proficiency requirements.

• Completed bachelor degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution, or graduate diploma.
• Relevant professional experience in education or related sectors may strengthen an application.
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, according to university policy.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a statement of purpose or a brief proposal outlining research interests.

Career prospects

The Graduate Certificate in Education Research equips graduates with practical research skills applicable across the education sector. Common career paths and uses of the qualification include:

• Teacher-researchers who embed inquiry into practice to improve student outcomes and inform curriculum choices.
• Curriculum developers and instructional designers who use evidence to shape resources and programmes.
• Policy officers and analysts in education departments or non-government organisations interpreting research to guide policy decisions.
• Research assistants and project officers on funded education research projects.
• Preparation for further study — the certificate provides a stepping stone into a Master by Research or PhD for those pursuing an academic or research career.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has a long-standing national reputation in teacher education and research, with faculties and centres focused on learning, pedagogy and educational equity. The university emphasises small-group learning, close supervision and support for early-career researchers. Students benefit from access to experienced academic staff with active research profiles in areas such as curriculum, inclusive education, wellbeing and teacher professional learning.

• Practical, applied focus that connects research methods to school and community contexts.
• Flexible delivery options to suit working professionals, including online study and evening workshops at many campuses.
• Opportunities to link with ongoing research projects and potential supervisors for progression to higher research degrees.
• A learning environment informed by ACU’s values, with an emphasis on ethical research practice and social justice.