Update your personalisation settings to view information about this course.
This course is only available to Domestic students and your preference is currently set to International.
This course is only available to International students and your preference is currently set to Domestic.
Key details
Duration
This short course is delivered over 4 weeks commencing 28 April 2025.
Intake
Locations
Entry requirements
View full entry requirementsCourse code
Overview
This short course provides the grounding required for work or study in realist research and evaluation. It introduces key terminology in realist research and differences from common meanings of those terms; assumptions about the nature of reality and knowledge underpinning realist approaches; key differences between realist, empiricist and constructivist philosophies of research; realist understanding of causation and heuristics for causation; differences between realist and other forms of program theory; and the structure of realist research and evaluation questions.
Participants will be able to:
1. Explain the relevance of philosophy of science to research methodology and methods.
2. Explain key concepts and terminology in a realist philosophy of science.
3. Explain a realist understanding of causation in open systems.
4. Apply realist philosophical assumptions to explain, in general terms, how policies and programs contribute to different outcomes in different contexts.
This course will be delivered over 4 weeks between 28th April - 25th May 2025.
Credit transfers and advanced standing
Skill recognition
Skills recognition is not applicable to this course. CDU's short courses are highly targeted courses designed to help you improve a specific skill. They will help you improve your career prospects, maintain currency in your field, or allow you to try out something completely new.
Pathways
VET to Higher Education Pathway Mapping for completed Awards in the same field or discipline.
Fees
2025 - fees for this course are $785.00
International VET Package
Why study at CDU?
Whether you learn on campus or online, you will be studying with a proud multi-sector university that’s a leader in research and flexible study delivery. CDU is innovative, industry-relevant and student-centred. Our students are at the heart of all that we do.
- Benefit from smaller class sizes for more personalised attention
- Online learners receive the same support as their on-campus peers
- Enjoy inclusive, welcoming learning environments
- Utilise our deep connections with industry, businesses and communities in the Northern Territory, across Australia, and beyond
Why study at CDU?
Whether you learn on campus or online, you will be studying with a proud multi-sector university that’s a leader in research and flexible study delivery. CDU is innovative, industry-relevant and student-centred. Our students are at the heart of all that we do.
- Benefit from smaller class sizes for more personalised attention
- Online learners receive the same support as their on-campus peers
- Enjoy inclusive, welcoming learning environments
- Utilise our deep connections with industry, businesses and communities in the Northern Territory, across Australia, and beyond
What will I study?
Candidates will enrol in the unit listed below to participate in this short course.
Course structure
A Certificate of attendance will be issued upon completion.
| Code | Module/Unit of Competency | Hours |
| UNITS OF COMPETENCY | ||
| ZSCRSC021 | Introduction to Realist Philosophy of Science | 12 |
| Total | 12 | |
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
Participants should have a recognised undergraduate degree and a working understanding of/exposure to the field of evaluation in relation to policy or programs. There is an expectation that applicants will have easy access to a computer and the internet, basic computer literacy skills, a high degree of literacy suitable for reading academic English language texts and are proficient in English. Students will need a personal computer with videoconferencing capability, headset (optional) or quiet environment for online class meetings, and internet connection.
This short course is ideal for postgraduate students using, or considering use of, realist approaches in their research; professionals and academics using realist approaches; and commissioners of realist evaluation and other realist research.
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
CDU graduates have the best career and employment prospects. International students have ranked CDU 1st in Australia for learning and living experience
Hema
CDU student
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
CDU graduates have the best career and employment prospects. International students have ranked CDU 1st in Australia for learning and living experience
Hema
CDU student
Course details
Location and study mode
Locations: Online
Study Mode: Online
Additional information
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
How to apply
How to apply direct to CDU
Applications to CDU must be submitted online.
You will need a valid email address to create your online account.
Once you have started the application you will have the option of saving your application and resuming it at a later date.
There is no application fee when you apply online.
Find a CDU agent partner to help you apply
Applicants may seek further information about international education in Australia from theAustralian Government Department of Education and Training or from our overseas / external representatives.
To help with the process, we've compile a list of authorised representatives.
Not sure if you are a domestic or international student?
That's OK - it can be a little tricky to know the difference.
To help you out, we've put together a guide to answer any questions you might have.
Things like the difference between domestic and international students or the difference between course types like VET and undergraduate.
Share this course