Master of Diplomacy (CRICOS course code 0101474) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course, offered at the AQF Level 9, equips students with advanced knowledge in political science and policy studies, focusing on diplomatic practice, international relations, and negotiation. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Hosted in Canberra, Australia's capital, you'll study near key diplomatic missions and government agencies, providing unparalleled networking opportunities. Whether you aim for a career in foreign affairs, NGOs, or international business, this program offers a rigorous academic foundation with practical insights. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act.
Master of Diplomacy (CRICOS course code 0101474) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course offers a deep dive into diplomacy, international negotiations, and global policy. The field of education is Society and Culture (09), specifically Political Science and Policy Studies (0901). Graduates typically develop skills in analysis, cross-cultural communication, and strategic thinking, preparing them for roles in government, international organisations, and the private sector. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification with no work component. It is available only at Australian National University's Canberra City West campus. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures compliance with Australian education standards and student visa requirements.
This program is classified under Political Science and Policy Studies (broad field 0901), encompassing theories and practices of diplomacy, international relations, and conflict resolution. Students engage with subjects such as diplomatic history, multilateral negotiations, foreign policy analysis, and public diplomacy. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, research proficiency, and practical skills in negotiation and cross-cultural communication. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, typical outcomes include the ability to analyse complex geopolitical issues, formulate policy recommendations, and lead diplomatic initiatives. This level of study (AQF Level 9) requires a prior bachelor's degree or equivalent, often with a background in social sciences or humanities. The course prepares graduates for advanced careers in diplomacy, advocacy, and global governance.
The Master of Diplomacy is a full-time program with a duration of 1 year 6 months (78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning it does not lead to a dual award or include foundational studies. The program is intensive and designed for students who can commit to a structured timetable. Study modes may include lectures, seminars, and independent research, but specific delivery details are confirmed by the provider. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 78-week duration includes scheduled breaks, during which students may have unlimited work rights (subject to visa conditions).
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Diplomacy at Australian National University is A$84,940. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment and materials) add A$560, bringing the estimated total to A$85,500. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees are set by the institution; always confirm directly with Australian National University at http://www.anu.edu.au/ for the most current information. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For Canberra, indicative living costs (weekly) are: rent $300–$500, groceries $80–$120, transport $40–$60. These are estimates only. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a free resource with no referral fees.
Admission to Master of Diplomacy typically requires a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) with a strong academic record. An IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) is commonly expected, though other English tests may be accepted. Some students may need to complete foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. Refer to the provider's website for precise prerequisites, including any prior study in political science or related fields. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution or a registered education agent for personalised advice. Note: All providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring entry standards align with Australian Government regulations.
This course has no mandatory work component. While some postgraduate programs include internships or industry placements, Master of Diplomacy does not require students to complete a work-integrated learning component. However, students may pursue voluntary work or extracurricular activities to enhance their skills. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This flexibility allows students to gain local experience in Canberra's diplomatic and policy community. Always check your visa conditions before undertaking paid work.
Master of Diplomacy is delivered at Australian National University's campus in Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's national capital and home to over 400 diplomatic missions, making it an ideal location for diplomacy studies. The city hosts around 40,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers (over 70 providers in ACT). Public transport includes buses and light rail, providing access to the campus from suburbs. Living costs in Canberra are moderate; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $400. The city offers a safe, multicultural environment with strong employment opportunities in government and international organisations. Studying in Canberra provides direct access to policymakers and diplomats.
International students enrolling in Master of Diplomacy require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and having sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year), and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to refunds and support services. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au for individual advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Masters Degree), field (Political Science), and location (ACT). Confirm that Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C) offers your desired program.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Australian National University's website at http://www.anu.edu.au/ to review entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Prepare your transcripts, CV, and personal statement. Submit your application through the university's online portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE from ANU. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Canberra offers a unique advantage for diplomacy students: it's the seat of Australian government and hosts nearly 100 embassies and high commissions. This proximity provides internship and networking opportunities with foreign ministries, NGOs, and international organisations. The city is also home to the Australian National University, consistently ranked among the world's top universities for politics and international studies. With a student population of over 40,000 international students from diverse backgrounds, you'll find a supportive community. Public transport is student-friendly, and the cost of living is comparable to other Australian capitals. For a career in diplomacy, Canberra is an unmatched study destination. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and legal protections under the ESOS Act.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Master of Diplomacy and thousands of other CRICOS-registered courses at HeadStart Academy. Start planning your study in Australia today.
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Master of Diplomacy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.