Research Courses at ECU
ECU is committed to undertaking high-quality research which has strong social, economic, environmental and cultural impact - research that makes a difference!
We offer a wide range of postgraduate research courses across our study areas and research strengths.
Research study may lead to employment within academia, research & development or as a specialist in industry.
Flexible entry pathways to many of our postgraduate research courses can enable you to enter the course on completion of Honours, a relevant Graduate Diploma or a relevant Masters by Coursework. More information >>
What is a research degree?
A research degree will normally involve the production of a written body of researched work, known as a thesis.
The research will be developed over a period of time and involve identifying a topic, developing a proposal, conducting the research and producing the thesis.
In disciplines with a creative component, the study may produce a creative work, such as a performance or literary item, plus an exegesis to accompany and reflect on the creative element.
Types of Research Courses
- Master by Research
Typically involves one year of coursework or research skills development units before embarking on a year-long research program which culminates in the submission of a thesis or creative work.
Master by research degrees at ECU may be one or two years full-time (or the equivalent part-time study) depending on the discipline. See ECU's Research Masters >> - Professional Doctorate
Typically involves both coursework and research over three years full-time (or the equivalent part-time study).
These programs are designed for industry professionals to develop an in-depth understanding of the latest thinking and technologies within their fields. See ECU's Professional Doctorates >> - Doctor of Philosophy
A supervised research degree involving a three year full-time (or the equivalent part-time) research program which culminates in the submission of a thesis or creative work. See ECU's Doctor of Philosophy Programs >>
Our Research Strengths
Our areas of research strength include:
- Health & Wellness
- Education
- Environment & Sustainability
- Electronic Engineering & ICT
- Social & Community
- Business & Society
- Communications & Creative Arts
- Security, Law & Justice
Graduate Research School
The Graduate Research School provides advice about admissions, scholarships, higher degrees policies & procedures to prospective research students.