Graduate Certificate of Policy and Applied Social Research (CRICOS course code 084526G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for students seeking to develop analytical skills in policy analysis and social research. Macquarie University is a government institution located in Sydney, New South Wales, with a strong reputation for research and teaching. Indicative tuition is A$18,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$152, bringing the estimated total to A$18,152. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00002J), international students can enrol directly and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500).
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This Graduate Certificate falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09) and specifically Political Science and Policy Studies (0901) with a focus on Policy Studies (090103). Students will typically develop skills in policy analysis, social research methods, and critical evaluation of public policy. The course is designed to equip graduates with the ability to understand and contribute to policy development in government, non-profit, or private sectors. While the exact curriculum is set by Macquarie University, typical Graduate Certificate programs at AQF Level 8 involve advanced knowledge and skills that build on undergraduate qualifications.
The course is offered over 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined course). No work component is included. Students should expect full-time study to complete within the duration.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$18,000 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees are A$152. The estimated total is A$18,152. These figures are from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx A$24,000 per year for a single student in Sydney), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with Macquarie University at www.mq.edu.au.
Entry requirements vary by provider and course level. For a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8), you typically need a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. English language requirements: typically IELTS 6.0–7.0 (or equivalent), but check with Macquarie University. Some providers offer pathway options if you don't meet the direct entry criteria. Always verify with the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde — Macquarie University, NSW. The campus is located in Sydney's North Ryde area, approximately 16 km from the city centre. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. The campus is accessible by train (Macquarie University station) and bus services. Sydney's cost of living is among the highest in Australia, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$500–700, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$40–60.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For detailed and personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. 2. Apply directly to Macquarie University — check their website for entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and submit your application. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a hub for government and policy organisations. Studying at Macquarie University places you near both the city centre and major research institutions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering 26,000+ courses, Sydney alone hosts a diverse range of study options. Consider your budget for living costs, as Sydney is more expensive than many other Australian cities. However, the proximity to policy networks and internships may enhance your study experience. Always weigh these factors before choosing your destination.
Ready to apply? Check the latest entry requirements and start your application at Macquarie University's website.
Graduate Certificate of Policy and Applied Social Research 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.