Master's Degree Public Policy Full Time

Executive Master of Public Policy

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

095622F

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$56,120 total

Per year

A$56,120/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Executive Master of Public Policy at Australian National University in Canberra is designed for mid-career professionals and emerging leaders seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in public policy formulation, analysis, and implementation. The programme provides deep insights into policy theory and practice, drawing on real-world challenges faced both in Australia and globally.

Typically completed over one year of full-time study, the degree structure is organised around a blend of core and elective units of study. Each unit carries a certain number of credit points that contribute to the total required for graduation. Students explore a robust curriculum covering contemporary policy issues, evidence-based decision-making, economics, and strategic leadership. A hallmark of the qualification is a capstone project or similar integrative experience that allows candidates to apply their learning to complex policy scenarios, fostering analytical and practical skills.

Students will gain capabilities in policy research, evaluation, negotiation, and high-level communication—skills vital for driving policy in the Australian context and beyond. The programme may also offer opportunities for work-integrated learning and policy engagements through ANU's industry and government connections in Canberra, Australia's heart of policy-making.

This course is particularly suited to professionals in the public sector, not-for-profits, or international organisations aiming for leadership roles, as well as those seeking a pathway into senior policy advisory or executive positions. Applicants should consult the official course page for detailed admission requirements and programme updates. International students are required to meet ANU's English proficiency requirements and benefit from the work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Upon graduation, eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Senior policy advisor in federal, state, or territory government departments
Executive roles in not-for-profit and non-governmental organisations
Policy analyst or programme manager in international agencies
Consultant in public policy advisory firms
Strategic planning specialist within Australian industry bodies
Roles in intergovernmental relations and advocacy organisations

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Executive Master of Public Policy at Australian National University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$56,120 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Senior policy advisor in federal, state, or territory government departmentsExecutive roles in not-for-profit and non-governmental organisationsPolicy analyst or programme manager in international agenciesConsultant in public policy advisory firmsStrategic planning specialist wit...

Apply View university