Strengthening Aboriginal research leadership starts with accessible pathways to research training. The following universities offer programs to support your research journey
Diploma of Indigenous Research (CDU)
A 1-year full-time (or 2-year part-time) diploma for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The course includes an on-ground research project, with units available online so you can study where you live and work.
Mode: Online + community-based research project
More info: CDU Diploma of Indigenous Research (2026)
Graduate Diploma of Indigenous Research (Deakin / NIKERI Institute)
A 1-year graduate diploma (full-time or part-time equivalent) providing research training grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems, and designed as a pathway to Masters or PhD by Research. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can apply directly through the NIKERI Institute.
Mode: Varies by intake/location
More info: Deakin Graduate Diploma of Indigenous Research
Professional Certificate in Indigenous Research (University of Melbourne)
A single-subject, 25-point award exploring research and research skills from an Indigenous perspective. Completion provides credit towards the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Research and Leadership (subject to University rules and timing).
Mode: Mixed/subject-based (see handbook for delivery details)
More info: UniMelb Professional Certificate in Indigenous Research (GC-IRPRO)
Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion (University of Sydney)
Designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and people looking to strengthen community health promotion capability. Develop skills to identify community needs, plan action, and deliver health promotion initiatives.
Duration: 1 year full-time (not available part-time)
More info: UniSydney Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion
Aboriginal Research Methodologies Course (ARMC) — Nulungu Research Institute (Broome)
A two-stage course for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to build research and community engagement capability. Delivered on Broome campus over three consecutive days per stage.
Stage One: 17–19 February 2026
Stage Two: September (TBC)
More info: ARMC course page (2026 dates)
Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Theory and Practice (Lowitja Institute)
A nationally accredited qualification supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers to build practical research knowledge and skills.
More info: Certificate IV course page
Lowitja Learning — Online courses
Short, self-directed online courses developed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers, and useful for non-Indigenous people working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and research.
More info: Lowitja Learning course catalogue