Graduate Certificate of Public Policy (CRICOS course code 089715G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian National University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for professionals and graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of policy analysis, development, and evaluation within the Australian and global context. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00120C), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The Australian National University (ANU), located in Canberra, is consistently ranked among the world's top universities, offering students access to leading policy experts and research. This page outlines everything you need to know about the course: fees, duration, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Graduate Certificate of Public Policy (CRICOS course code 089715G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian National University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is classified under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Political Science and Policy Studies (0901) with a focus on Policy Studies (090103). It is an AQF Level 8 qualification, typically requiring a bachelor's degree or equivalent for entry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students and provides a pathway to further study or career advancement in public policy. The course is delivered at ANU's Canberra City West campus, placing students at the heart of Australia's political and policy-making hub.
The Graduate Certificate of Public Policy provides foundational knowledge in policy analysis, development, and evaluation. Students typically explore the policy-making process, including problem identification, stakeholder engagement, evidence-based decision-making, and implementation. The curriculum often covers economic, social, and political contexts that influence policy outcomes. While specific subjects vary, graduates emerge with skills in critical analysis, research, and communication, applicable to roles in government, non-profits, and consulting. This qualification is designed to enhance professional practice or serve as a stepping stone to a master's degree in public policy or related fields.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies component). Study mode is likely full-time, but students should confirm with Australian National University. The course code 089715G reflects a standard graduate certificate structure, typically comprising 24 credit points of coursework. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fee for this course is A$26,560, with non-tuition fees of A$187, giving an estimated total of A$26,747. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by Australian National University. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. As a guide, OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover, and living costs in Canberra are approximately A$450–A$650 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always check the provider's website for the most current fee schedule: http://www.anu.edu.au/.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a graduate certificate, a bachelor's degree or equivalent is generally expected. Specific prerequisites may include a minimum GPA or relevant work experience. Australian National University also accepts other English tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. If you do not meet direct entry, pathway programs like foundation studies may be available. Refer to the ANU website for detailed entry criteria. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, 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 can provide valuable experience and income but is not integrated into the curriculum.
This course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to a large student population and a high concentration of government agencies. The city offers excellent public transport, including buses and light rail, connecting the ANU campus to surrounding suburbs. With over 40 CRICOS-registered providers in Canberra, it is a popular study destination. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with typical rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$450–A$600 per week.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must maintain enrolment, attend classes, and make satisfactory course progress. Additional requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides current financial capacity thresholds. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate of Public Policy at Australian National University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (ANU is registered under code 00120C).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit ANU's website to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, English test results).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Then apply to the Department of Home Affairs for a Student visa, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Ready to apply? Follow our three-step guide above or visit the ANU website for direct application details.
All Graduate Certificate courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Graduate Certificate 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.