Master of Public Policy (CRICOS course code 082349C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 2 years. This program, offered under the Society and Culture field (specifically Policy Studies), prepares graduates for leadership roles in public policy analysis and development. Australian National University, a prestigious government-funded university with CRICOS code 00120C, delivers this course at its Canberra City West campus in the Australian Capital Territory. The indicative total fee is A$114,506, making this a significant investment in your professional future. The course is taught in English and requires an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring visa eligibility and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia. Graduates can pursue careers in government, non-profits, international organisations, and private sector policy roles. Studying at ANU places you at the heart of Australia’s capital, offering unique access to policymakers and internships.
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The Master of Public Policy falls under the field of Education 090103 - Policy Studies, within the broader Society and Culture area. This Masters Degree (Coursework) level (AQF Level 9) focuses on developing advanced understanding of policy processes, including agenda-setting, policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Students engage with theoretical frameworks and practical skills in policy analysis, research methods, and evidence-based decision-making. While the exact curriculum is set by Australian National University, typical coursework degree outcomes include the ability to critically assess policy problems, design and evaluate policy interventions, and communicate complex ideas to diverse stakeholders. ANU is renowned for its strong policy and international relations programs, benefiting from its location in the national capital. Graduates emerge with the expertise to influence public policy at local, national, and international levels, contributing to effective governance and social progress.
The Master of Public Policy is a full-time course lasting 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual degree). The course does not include foundation studies or a VET component. International students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa requirements. Part-time study may be possible in limited circumstances but should be confirmed directly with Australian National University. The standard intake is semestral, typically in February and July. As a coursework degree, it is structured around taught subjects, assessments, and possibly a capstone project. There is no mandatory work component, but ANU may offer optional internship opportunities.
The indicative fees for this program, as recorded in the CRICOS register, are as follows: tuition A$113,760, non-tuition fees A$746, giving an estimated total of A$114,506. These fees are set by Australian National University and are subject to change each year. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Indicative weekly expenses: rent for a one-bedroom apartment A$550–700, groceries A$100–150, public transport A$120–150 per month. For current fees, always check ANU’s official website. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting for total costs including living expenses to ensure financial capacity for your student visa application.
Entry requirements for the Master of Public Policy typically include an IELTS overall band score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band less than 6.0 to 6.5, depending on provider policy). Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, public policy, political science, law, or economics. Some professional experience may be considered in lieu of academic background. There are no foundation study options for this course. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Always check Australian National University’s official admissions page for precise requirements, including any prerequisite subjects or additional documents like a personal statement or references. International students must also meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for the visa.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a standard coursework Masters degree, focused on academic study rather than work-integrated learning. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You may also choose to undertake voluntary internships or extracurricular activities to enhance your practical skills. For any optional work arrangement, ensure compliance with your visa conditions and ANU’s policies.
The Master of Public Policy is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia’s capital city, with a population of around 470,000, including a large student community. ANU’s campus is located in the suburb of Acton, close to the city centre, and is accessible via public buses and light rail. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in the ACT, offering diverse courses. Living costs in Canberra are generally higher than the national average, but still lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. The city is known for its national museums, galleries, and parliamentary institutions, providing unique opportunities for policy students. Student accommodation options include on-campus colleges and off-campus rentals. HeadStart Academy recommends researching the local area to ensure it fits your lifestyle and study goals.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian National University, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, and proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during term breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are eligible for student visas. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa guidance.
Follow these three steps to secure your place in this program:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree (Coursework)), field (Policy Studies), and location (Canberra). Confirm that Australian National University is CRICOS-registered (00120C) and approved to offer this course (CRICOS 082349C).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Australian National University’s official website to review the full entry requirements, including English language test scores, academic qualifications, and application deadlines. Submit a completed application form with all required documents (transcripts, personal statement, references). Pay the application fee if applicable.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If your application is successful, ANU will issue a CoE. You must then apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs, providing your CoE, OSHC details, GTE statement, and evidence of funds. Processing times vary, so apply early. Seek advice from a registered migration agent (MARA) if needed.
Ready to advance your career in public policy? Start your application at Australian National University today.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Master of Public Policy 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.