Coursework or Research?What's the difference between Coursework and Research?Coursework programsCoursework programs may have all (or the majority) of their requirements met by the completion of coursework subjects in a particular discipline/professional area. Normally, a full-time student undertakes 8 subjects (48 credit points) per year. Each subject is allocated a credit point value. You will normally undertake Sessional subjects (one session to complete) – usually 6 credit points each. Workload As a guide, the workload for a 6 credit point single subject in a postgraduate coursework program is an average of 12 hours per week including attending class and studying in your own time. This is a recommended workload for postgraduates and would vary depending on the student's academic ability and previous knowledge of the subject. Part-time vs full-time Part-time students normally enrol in half the full-time degree, ie 4 subjects (24 credit points) per year. Many subjects within a program are timetabled to be undertaken on a part-time basis (ie, evening delivery) or by distance. However, some class times may not suit people engaged in full-time work. Assessment Your assessments will be based on a combination of participation in class examinations, formal examinations, practical exercises and written work. Students should consult the University's Postgraduate Calendar for further information on assessment in specific subjects. Research programsUOW provides research training for people who are interested in academic and research careers and for those who wish to advance their level of professional practice. A research program is defined as having at least two-thirds (2/3) of its requirements as supervised research leading to a thesis. For more information about research programs consult research programs for prospective students. View some of our current HDR Research Opportunities. Workload The workload for a postgraduate research program is variable and dependent on the type and nature of the research involved. Students enrolled in a Masters by Research or Professional Doctorate may also undertake some coursework subjects. Part-time vs full-time Part-time students normally enrol in half the full-time degree, ie 4 subjects (24 credit points) per year. Although, the demands of conducting research (particularly in a research laboratory setting) may require part-time students to be engaged in research on a full-time basis for part of the year. Assessment Research students must submit a written thesis for examination. The thesis must make an original contribution to knowledge and demonstrate the capacity to conduct independent research. The format and length of the thesis will vary. Students enrolled in the Faculty of Creative Arts may also have additional requirements. Research proposal presentation All research students are required to present a formal research proposal presentation in their first year of thesis work. The purpose of the research proposal is to demonstrate an understanding of the thesis topic and proposed methodology, including time-lines. Should I opt for coursework or research?Postgraduate Coursework at UOW UOW Coursework programs present the latest findings and contemporary practices from around the globe. The programs are designed to help you to make a real impact on your working environment. You will develop a practical and relevant skills base, critical in today’s business market. If you are planning to move into management, for example, UOW’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) will integrate learning across a range of disciplines. You can also elect to develop your expertise in a particular area to suit your vocational goals or to reflect your present career. Coursework programs may have all (or the majority) of their requirements met by the completion of coursework subjects in a particular discipline/professional area. You will undertake a series of subjects that will accrue credit points towards your qualification. It may be possible to fast-track your program by undertaking a subject(s) throughout summer, if available. A number of Masters programs also include the option to complete a research project. Postgraduate Research at UOW Our Research programs offer a supportive, talented team environment and cutting-edge opportunities. You will have the chance to play an exciting, active role in developing the future. Unlike some larger universities, our researchers teach at all levels of study. As a student, you will have direct access to professors who play a pivotal role in the latest research alongside leading government and industry professionals. UOW continues to develop its reputation in key niche areas of research including intelligent polymers and superconductors; biomolecular, physical and chemical sciences; intelligence and security; innovative engineering; medical and clinical research; smart foods; public health; preventative health and health services; medical radiation physics; Asia Pacific social transformation studies and environmental conservation. Should you be interested in an academic or research career our research programs will ensure you achieve an advanced level of practice. All UOW research programs comprise at least two-thirds supervised research leading to a thesis or equivalent practical work. For more information about research programs consult research programs for prospective students. View some of our current HDR Research Opportunities.
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