Graduate Diploma of Politics and Public Policy (CRICOS course code 083766M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program focuses on policy studies (field 090103), equipping students with analytical skills to evaluate and shape public policy in Australia and globally. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00002J), it meets strict Australian Government standards for international education. Macquarie University is a leading public university located in Sydney's North Ryde, offering world-class facilities and a vibrant campus community. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), Australia has 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses to international students. This graduate diploma is designed for those seeking advanced expertise in government, non-profit sector, or international organisations. Students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The indicative tuition fee is A$31,000, with non-tuition fees of A$303, totaling A$31,303 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa charges). HeadStart Academy is a free resource providing accurate CRICOS data — no commission, no referral fees. Read on for full details on entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa guidance.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Graduate Diploma of Politics and Public Policy (CRICOS course code 083766M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 1 year. This program is at AQF Level 8, field of education 0901 Political Science and Policy Studies. Graduates typically develop skills in policy analysis, research, and evaluation. Macquarie University is a CRICOS-registered government university (CRICOS 00002J) with a strong reputation in social sciences. The course is delivered at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales.
Policy Studies (field 090103) covers the design, implementation, and evaluation of public policies. Students learn about political systems, policy processes, and evidence-based decision-making. Typical subjects include public policy theory, Australian political institutions, policy analysis, and ethics. This graduate diploma provides advanced knowledge for careers in policy advisory, public administration, and advocacy. Note that the specific curriculum is determined by Macquarie University; consult their website for the official program structure.
Duration: 1 year (52 weeks as per CRICOS register). Language of instruction: English. Single qualification (not a dual degree). No foundation studies component. Work component: None (no mandatory work placement). Study mode: Full-time (usually) – confirm with provider.
Indicative fees from CRICOS register: Tuition fee: A$31,000. Non-tuition fee: A$303. Estimated total: A$31,303. Fees are set by Macquarie University and subject to change. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is required for international students – costs vary by provider (approx A$500–A$700 per year for single cover). Living expenses: Sydney is one of Australia's most expensive cities; weekly rent for a room in shared accommodation ranges from A$250–A$400, groceries around A$80–A$150, and public transport about A$35–A$50. The Australian Government recommends a minimum annual living cost of A$21,041 (for a single student) as part of visa financial capacity. Visa application charge for Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees with Macquarie University at www.mq.edu.au.
General guidance for graduate diploma level: Typically require a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band below 5.0–5.5?). The CRICOS register indicates IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall. Other tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Some applicants with significant work experience may be considered. For applicants who do not meet direct entry, Macquarie University offers pathway programs such as Graduate Certificate or English language courses. Always check Macquarie University's official entry requirements for international students.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This allows students to gain part-time work experience in Sydney.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde — Macquarie University, NSW. North Ryde is a suburb in northern Sydney, well-connected by train (North Ryde station) and bus services. The campus is near the Macquarie Centre shopping complex and Macquarie Park business district. Sydney has over 100 registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city's international student population exceeds 150,000, creating a diverse and supportive environment. Typical weekly rent in North Ryde for a studio is around A$350–A$500, and groceries and transport costs are in line with Sydney averages.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, proof of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), English proficiency (meeting IELTS requirement), and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) must be arranged before visa grant. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) has full details. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring tuition fee protection and student support.
New South Wales, particularly Sydney, is Australia's most populous state with a strong economy and diverse culture. Study here offers access to top universities, government agencies, and NGOs. However, cost of living is high. Consider your budget, climate preference (Sydney has mild winters and warm summers), and career goals. If you prefer a smaller city, other states like Victoria or Queensland have excellent options. Use the CRICOS register to compare providers.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by Graduate Diploma, Policy Studies, and New South Wales. Macquarie University appears as a CRICOS-registered provider (00002J). 2. Apply directly to Macquarie University: Submit your application through their international admissions portal (www.mq.edu.au). Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and any required documents. Note application deadlines (typically semester-based). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macquarie University issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet all visa conditions.
Ready to advance your career in public policy? Follow the application steps above or explore more Graduate Diploma courses in New South Wales.
Graduate Diploma of Politics and Public Policy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.