Charles Darwin University
2 years full-time or 4 years part-time
Master the complexities of public policy with a focus on northern Australia and South-East Asia. This postgraduate degree combines theoretical frameworks with practical research methodologies, preparing you for careers in government, policy analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.
Applicants must have successfully completed a recognised bachelor degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, master's degree or equivalent international qualification. English language proficiency is required, with minimum IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) for international postgraduate students or equivalent test scores. Domestic students must meet standard English language requirements through previous study in English or approved English tests.
Core units (40 credit points) cover First Nations Policy Agendas, Theoretical Approaches to Public Policy, Public Policy Practice, and Evidence and Policy Evaluation. Research methodology units (minimum 20 credit points) include Research Methodologies in Education, Real-World Statistics and Data Reasoning, Research Methods in First Nations Contexts, Research Design, and Qualitative Research. Specialist electives (20-60 credit points) span six streams: Education (philosophies, ethics, assessment, leadership); Environment and Livelihoods (sustainability, biosecurity, ecological restoration, wildlife management); Health and Social Policy (indigenous health, public health, health systems); Indigenous Contexts (neocolonialism, First Nations knowledges, sovereignty); Public Management and Governance (organizational change, strategic management, project management); and Secure and Safe Communities (emergency management, social justice, cultural security). The final 40 credit points comprise a Public Policy Research Project developed in collaboration with your supervisor.
Charles Darwin University is ranked #1 in Australia for postgraduate teaching quality in humanities and social sciences (GUG 2024) and #2 for postgraduate employment outcomes. CDU offers a unique focus on Indigenous and Asia-Pacific perspectives, with flexible study options allowing you to balance education with work and personal commitments. The university's location in northern Australia provides distinctive insights into remote policy contexts and regional challenges.
Graduates with a Master of Public Policy can pursue careers as policy researchers, advisors, analysts, or writers in government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations. The degree prepares you for roles in policy development, evidence-based evaluation, and strategic planning. Career opportunities span federal and state government, international organizations, research institutions, and private sector consulting firms focused on policy analysis and implementation.
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