While many organisations conduct research, universities have a unique responsibility to provide research training. Research training is conducted via a higher degree of which there are three types:
A masters by research degree is awarded for an original contribution to knowledge achieved in up to two years of full-time candidature (or two to four years of part-time) candidature.
Doctoral degrees are awarded for a substantial original contribution to knowledge achieved in two to four years of full-time (or four to eight years part-time) candidature.
In the case of both masters by research and PhD degrees, the program may include some course work but the focus of the degree is on research.
A professional doctorate combines a research project, coursework and structured research tasks which are specifically related to professional practice and are often carried out in the workplace. At least two-thirds of the program is based on research.
Further details about higher degrees by research can be found by following the links to the left.