The Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development (CRICOS course code 077166G) is a 26-week Graduate Certificate delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) at its Murdoch campus in Western Australia. This course is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of policy analysis and development processes within a global context. As part of the Society and Culture field (Political Science and Policy Studies), it equips graduates with skills to evaluate and influence public policy. Murdoch University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00125J) and all courses are protected under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia remains a top destination for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability. This page provides indicative fees, entry guidance, and student visa information to help you plan your studies. Always confirm details directly with Murdoch University before applying.
Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development (CRICOS course code 077166G) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 26 weeks (~6 months). The course is offered in English and leads to a single qualification. It falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0901 - Political Science and Policy Studies' with detail '090103 - Policy Studies'. This program prepares students for roles in government, non-profits, and international organisations by building skills in policy analysis, program evaluation, and development strategies. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can enrol with confidence that the program meets Australian quality standards. Murdoch University is a government-funded institution located in Murdoch, Western Australia. The campus is well-connected by public transport and is part of a vibrant academic community.
The Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development focuses on the intersection of political science and policy studies. Students typically explore theories of public policy, development economics, governance structures, and methods for policy evaluation. Graduates learn to analyse complex social issues, design evidence-based interventions, and communicate policy recommendations effectively. This level of study (Graduate Certificate) provides a foundational understanding suitable for professionals seeking to transition into policy roles or enhance their current expertise. While specific syllabus details vary by provider, Murdoch University emphasises practical, real-world applications through case studies and research projects. The course is ideal for those interested in contributing to sustainable development and social justice.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months). The course is taught in English and is offered as a single qualification with no dual or joint degree options. There are no foundation studies or work components included. Students are expected to engage full-time, with classes typically held on campus. The language of instruction is English, and applicants must demonstrate proficiency through standard tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, with requirements varying by provider. Murdoch University may offer some flexibility in study arrangements; check directly with the institution for current options.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,480, with non-tuition fees of A$183, bringing the estimated total to A$18,663. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international student visa holders, nor do they cover living costs such as accommodation, groceries, transport, or the student visa application charge. Indicative living costs in Perth (Western Australia) are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. Always confirm current fees with Murdoch University at www.murdoch.edu.au before budgeting. A summary of fees is provided in the table below.
Entry requirements for Graduate Certificate courses typically include a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent, and English language proficiency. Murdoch University may specify a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall (or equivalent), but requirements can range from 5.5 to 7.0 depending on the course level and institution. For this program, applicants are expected to have a background in social sciences or a related field, though relevant professional experience may be considered. No foundation or pathway options are explicitly listed for this course, but Murdoch offers enabling programs for students who do not meet direct entry criteria. Always check the official entry requirements on the provider's website and consult with Murdoch's international admissions team for personalised guidance.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or professional experience requirement embedded in the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake casual work during their studies, up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is optional and not assessed as part of the course.
The Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb approximately 15 km south of Perth's central business district. The campus is accessible via public transport, including bus routes and the Mandurah railway line (Murdoch Station). Perth is the capital of Western Australia and is home to over 2 million people, with a significant international student population. The city offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400–600. Over 20 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Western Australia, offering a wide range of courses.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, ensuring course quality and refund rights.
Applying for the Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development at Murdoch University involves three simple steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that your chosen course (CRICOS 077166G) is available and note application deadlines. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Murdoch University's website, complete the online application, and submit required documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy). Meet any specific entry requirements and pay the application fee if applicable. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once Murdoch issues your CoE, prepare your visa application, including OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Lodge your application online via the Department of Home Affairs.
Start your application today - Research CRICOS-registered providers, apply directly to Murdoch University, and receive your CoE.
Graduate Certificate in Policy and Development is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.