This course will develop advanced knowledge and skills in academic writing, research, critical thinking and intercultural communication to successfully undertake postgraduate study at CDU. Advanced English language skills appropriate to postgraduate level studies are also developed, both iteratively throughout the course and in the English for Postgraduate Studies Unit, to enable you to read, write, communicate and critically analyse higher level concepts and complex issues in intercultural contexts. The course emphasizes the practical application of these advanced knowledge and skills and will help you understand that reading and writing skills are necessary to the process of thinking, learning and creating meaning. They are iterative processes developed and improved throughout the course. You will develop skills in reflective, autonomous and collaborative practices to successfully engage in learning and assessment activities at postgraduate level. An underlying philosophy of the course is that academic studies at postgraduate level is a social and contextual activity that requires developing appropriate attitudes and behaviours towards studying, fellow students and the wider academic community. The course will help you achieve the CDU graduate quality outcomes and reflect the values of CDU. As a course designed to prepare you for postgraduate studies at CDU this course is the first steps towards equipping and inspiring you to shape and respond to the opportunities and challenges of the future as an accomplished communicator, highly regarded professional and culturally competent citizen in local, national, and global society.