Graduate Certificate in Commercialisation
Explore the commercial potential of your research
Catering specifically for domestic students at the University of Melbourne, the Graduate Certificate in Commercialisation for Research Students provides commercialisation training to the next generation of Australian researchers.
Under this scheme, research students study four commercialisation subjects at Melbourne Business School during their higher degree. The Commonwealth government subsidizes the tuition fees, and provides a total $10,000 cash stipend to each student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this scheme only aimed at science or technology students?
No! Anyone doing original research is involved in producing ideas. The commercialisation training scheme can help you think about how to get these ideas out of the academic world and into the broader public arena, whether you are researching biotechnology innovations, inventing computer algorithms, doing historical research or writing music.
Will this interfere with my research?
The scheme is designed to complement your research. The CTS exposes you to the broader implications of what you are doing and we believe this will increase your motivation and productivity in your research. We have also designed a number of subjects in ways that will minimise the time taken away from research. Finally by providing a stipend while you are studying the Graduate Certificate we help you stretch your funding a little further.
Why is the government supporting this scheme?
The CTS is a part of the Australian government's commitment to fostering innovation. Australians are doing extremely interesting and valuable research but often their ideas are publicised and commercialised outside Australia. By increasing the commercialisation skills of Australian researchers, the government hopes to change that.
Should I do this course if I'm thinking of following an academic career track?
Absolutely! In many countries, universities are the powerhouse of not only basic research but also the next steps of commercialising innovations. There are many exciting opportunities for academics to be involved in commercialisation here in Australia and the ability of researchers to attract linkage grant funding and other support from the commercial sector is highly sought after by universities.
What subjects are available?
The program comprises four subjects drawn from the following themes:
- Commercialisation Know-How
- Leadership and Organisational Behaviour
- Technical Commercialisation skills
- An elective that best matches your career aspirations
Many subjects such as Managing People, Leadership, Strategic Management of Intellectual Property, Project Management, Financial Management, Entrepreneurship, Managing New Ventures, Managing Innovation, Financing Entrepreneurial Ventures and Marketing are available through Melbourne Business School. Some of these are offered in intensive format and are ideal for CTS students. Click here for more details.
How do I know which subjects are right for me?
Our program director will meet with you individually and help you plan your course to gain the skills that will have the most impact in your chosen area of specialisation.
When can I start?
Melbourne Business School has three teaching terms with rolling admissions throughout the year and intakes in January, May and September. This means you can start taking subjects within a short time of being successfully admitted to the program.
Entry requirements
You must be an Australian or NZ citizen or Australian permanent resident.
Submit to Graeme Cocks , a Curriculum Vitae, proof of citizenship, a letter of support from your supervisor and a 500-word written statement addressing the following two questions:
- How are particular aspects of your research program relevant, or likely to be relevant to commercialisation?
- How will the Graduate Certificate in Commercialisation for Research Students contribute to your current research program?
Successful applicants will be contacted to collect their letter of offer and will receive information on the online enrolment process.
More information
Graeme Cocks
Associate Professor
Program director, Graduate Certificate in Commercialisation
Melbourne Business School
Tel: (03) 9349 8475
Email: g.cocks@mbs.edu
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