Levels of programs
UniSA offers programs at undergraduate, graduate and
postgraduate levels. Undergraduate programs are those that lead
to a first, higher education qualification. Graduate and
postgraduate programs are available to students who have
completed a first degree or diploma.
All programs offered by the University are reviewed regularly to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of the professions and the community. This means that students are assured of completing a program that is not only academically demanding and personally satisfying, but is also professionally relevant.
Undergraduate awards
Advanced certificate
This award is conferred following the completion of a program of at least three years of part-time study.
Diploma
This is a sub-professional award following the successful completion of two years of full-time or equivalent part-time study.
Bachelor degree
This award is conferred following the successful completion of at least three years of full-time or equivalent part-time study. Where appropriate, degree programs have been designed to enable graduates to meet the requirements of the relevant professional association.
Honours
This is a one year undergraduate degree program of advanced studies for outstanding students following a three year Bachelor degree. Some four-year Bachelor degree programs enable outstanding students to undertake Honours studies in the fourth year of the program. Students in such four-year programs are awarded a degree 'with Honours'.
Postgraduate awards
Graduate certificate
These programs generally require a minimum of half a year of full-time or equivalent part-time study, following satisfactory completion of a degree or diploma program or their equivalent.
Graduate diploma
These programs usually require one year of full-time or equivalent part-time study, following satisfactory completion of a degree or diploma program or their equivalent.
Postgraduate Bachelor degree
Graduate entry Bachelor degree programs generally require a minimum of one and a half years of full-time or equivalent part-time study, following satisfactory completion of a degree.
Masters degree by coursework
These programs are offered in a wide range of disciplines. For candidates holding an appropriate first degree or equivalent, the program normally extends over one and a half years full-time, or the part-time equivalent. A number of programs also specify relevant practical or professional experience for entry, which may allow students to complete the program in a shorter time. Some Masters degree programs include a significant research project or thesis, normally equivalent to not more than 50 per cent of the program.
Masters degree by research
Students may undertake research programs in a variety of disciplines leading to the award of Masters degree. A candidate undertakes a program of study and research under supervision, in order to complete a thesis for examination. The duration of the candidature is two years full-time, or the part-time equivalent.
Professional Doctorate
A postgraduate award leading to the degree of Doctor of 'Discipline' of three years full-time study or the part-time equivalent which consists of a combination of advanced coursework and practice, and a program of research.
Doctoral degree by research
The doctor of philosophy (PhD), a research degree, is the highest award of the University. Students may undertake research programs in a variety of disciplines leading to the award of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The duration of candidature is normally four years full-time equivalent study from the commencement of candidature including any periods of candidature for any degree by research prior to transferring to PhD candidature.
Candidates for the award of the PhD degree must demonstrate that their work is comprehensive in both theory and methodology and that they have made a significant, original contribution to knowledge and/or the application of knowledge within the field of study.