Key facts
UNE unit code: ERS381
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Extend your capacity for independent, lifelong learning and equip yourself for your chosen career pathway by honing research skills in an area of scientific interest you are passionate about.
This special topic program is tailored to meet your individual needs and study goals. With opportunities to fine tune your critical thinking, scientific investigation skills, and communication abilities, you will develop as an independent scientist to enable you to stand out in your career.
Your project may be a literature review or other form of research in the field or laboratory, and will include a project report that communicates your findings. Your work will be a bridge to further study or career opportunities, allowing you to develop specialised subject knowledge and technical skills in your chosen topic.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Enrolment in ERS381 must be approved by the Unit Coordinator. The unit handbook outlines the process for enrolment. Please refer to the Project Handbook for further information, and complete and submit Approval Form A. Instructions on how to do this are outlined within the Handbook. Students will be required to negotiate a topic or project with one or more supervisors and have this approved with Form A. Approval is dependent on the availability of supervision and resources.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge in the area of study;
- analyse, evaluate and interpret information and data in the area of study;
- communicate knowledge, skills and outcomes of research in the area of study; and
- demonstrate autonomy, sound judgement and responsibility in conducting and reporting on original research.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Report - Assurance Task | Yes | 80% | All offerings | No. Words: 6000 |
| Oral Exam - Assurance Task | Yes | 20% | All offerings | The oral exam will be offered face-to-face or online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Duration: approximately 15 minutes. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Writing Science: How to Write Papers that get Cited and Proposals that get Funded
ISBN: 9780199760237
Schimel, J., Oxford University Press 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
The Scientist's Guide to Writing: How to Write More Easily and Effectively throughout Your Scientific Career
ISBN: 9780691219189
Heard, S.B., Princeton University Press 2nd Edition 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
