186303 v.2 Master of Arts (Indigenous Research and Development)

Introduction

This course prepares students for higher occupational levels requiring research and development capabilities relevant to policy, program and project development and human services delivery in Aboriginal and other indigenous contexts. It provides participants with rigorous training in all facets of research and development work under the supervision of senior staff from across the University. Students develop high levels of competence in conceptualising observing, describing and analysing information using a variety of observational techniques and analytic procedures. The products of these research processes are applied directly to developmental work in social, organisational and community contexts. The degree is a professional qualification requiring rigorous coursework and field-based research work. Culturally-based inputs from Aboriginal students, Aboriginal staff and visiting Indigenous academics complement the significant academic and professional resources of the University.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

A Postgraduate Diploma at University level, or a Bachelor degree with Honours or qualifications from another insitution recognised by tertiary admissions authorities in Australia and deemed to be equivalent to or a satisfactory substitute for any of theabove qualifications. Those students without completed formal coursework in Aboriginal Studies may also be required to complete appropriate background units.

Duration and Availability

The course is by research and normally requires one to two years of full-time or equivalent part-time study.

Course Organisation

This course is studied as a research degree. The content of the degree should be determined in consultation with the Postgraduate Coordinator, Centre for Aboriginal Studies. Students engage in relevant coursework related to the design and implementationof research processes in indigenous contexts in a chosen area of specialisation. They also engage in field work, usually related to a community based research project. This course consists of coursework, and a thesis. Each student carries out a research project using parrticipatory research methodologies incorporating data collection and analysis and theorising in an ongoing and iterative process. Research fieldwork is supported by supervisor consultations and complemented by readings, seminars, peer support networks and supervisor visits.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study. Students are required tohave full-time use of a computer with electronic communication capabilities. Some units within this course may have a field component, for which costs may be incurred.

Special Note

It is a requirement that two-thirds of this course is undertaken by research and only one-third by coursework.

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.