Griffith University

Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Business

  • Delivery: Face to Face
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 12 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Diploma

The course provides an alternative route for entry into a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program for applicants who do not possess the required qualifications for direct admission.

Course overview

Upon successful completion of the program, students may be eligible for admission to a MPhil or PhD subject to fulfilment of requirements for candidature as specified in the Higher Degree Research policy. The grade achieved will determine entry to either a PhD or MPhil candidature.

Students may choose to exit the graduate diploma program (after successfully completing the specified courses) with the Graduate Certificate in Research Studies in Business.

Key facts

Delivery
Face to Face
Course Type
Graduate Diploma
Duration
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Can be studied part time
12 months (Full time)
Price Per Unit
From $8,500
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The estimated per-unit fee is calculated using the annual average first-year fee. It is based on a full-time study load of 40 credit points (four units) per semester or 80 credit points (eight units) per year.
Campus
Gold Coast
Nathan
Intake
13th July, 2026
Units
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You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.
8
Fees
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FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP

What you will study

To be eligible for the award of Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Business, you must complete 80 credit points.

Foundation Module

Complete the following:

  • Research Design
  • Quantitative Methods
  • Translating Research into Academic Outputs

Choose one of the following:

  • Qualitative Methods
  • Advanced Quantitative Methods and Econometrics

Core Module

Complete the following:

  • GBS Dissertation - 8001GBS_P1
  • GBS Dissertation - 8001GBS_P2
  • GBS Dissertation - 8001GBS_P3
  • GBS Dissertation - 8001GBS_P4

Entry requirements

You can complete this program in 0.5 years or 1 year, depending on your prior study and work experience.

To be eligible for this program, you must meet one of the following criteria:

0.5 year duration (40 credit points).

  • A Graduate Certificate in Research Studies in Business (3275).

1 year duration (80 credit points).

  • A recognised Bachelor's degree (or higher).
  • Seven years full-time (or equivalent) relevant work experience.

You must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale) in your previous qualification.

All applicants require a research topic and suitable supervisor confirmed at point of application.

Related work experience includes being a business owner, manager, team leader or any work within the field of the proposed research.

Students who successfully complete courses in the Graduate Certificate in Research Studies in Business (3275) with a minimum GPA of 5.0 without graduating will be able to transfer to this program. Students who graduate with the Graduate Certificate (3275) and seek admission to this program will be required to complete 40 credit points to complete the Graduate Diploma successfully.

When assessing applications for admission, the Program Director will consider evidence that an appropriately qualified staff member is willing to serve as a research supervisor.

Students needing assistance finding a suitable supervisor may find the Griffith Experts website a useful resource.

Students requiring assistance in finding a suitable supervisor and developing a research proposal should contact the Program Director.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Gaining credit and recognition of prior learning may reduce the time it will take to complete your degree. Find out more about the types of learning you may gain credit for, how to apply for credit transfer and examples of credit decisions by either contacting the university or booking a call with our Education Consultant.

Outcomes

Career outcomes

You will be able to plan and conduct research in business and commerce and be well placed for career opportunities in the private, not-for-profit and public sectors. You may also be able to progress to a higher degree by research and pursue a high-level research career.

Fees and FEE-HELP

Estimated first-year tuition fee in 2026: $34,000 (domestic full-fee paying place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 80 credit points (normally eight units) per year.

A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of courses studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of courses.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.