COURSE CURRICULUM

The Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Information Technology is an 80 credit point program designed to provide an alternative pathway into Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programs for applicants who do not meet the direct entry requirements. The program is supervised by the Griffith Sciences Group, which oversees student progress throughout their study. It is offered full-time on-campus at both the Nathan and Gold Coast campuses. Students are required to complete coursework and a dissertation component. The coursework includes core courses such as Research Methods in IT, which equips students with essential research skills tailored to the information technology field, and three advanced topics courses—Advanced Topics in Information Technology A, B, and C—each designed to deepen subject knowledge and enhance research capabilities. These courses are worth 10 credit points each and are offered across Trimester 1 and Trimester 2, providing students with some flexibility in managing their studies. The dissertation component expects students to work independently, although regular meetings with supervisors are mandatory to ensure progress. On-campus attendance during the dissertation phase is relatively flexible but should be discussed and agreed upon with supervisors before starting. For international students, it is essential to maintain a full-time study load and to enrol in a manner that allows completion of the program within the expected duration as specified on their Confirmation of Enrolment. The recommended study load for international students during each compulsory trimester is 40 credit points. This program also has a related qualification, the Graduate Certificate in Research Studies in Information Technology, which offers a shorter course of study. Overall, the Graduate Diploma provides a structured and comprehensive program that equips students with the research skills and specialized knowledge necessary to progress to higher research degrees in information technology.