Graduate Diploma in Public Policy (CRICOS course code 096020B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 course is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in political science and policy studies. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas student enrolment. At HeadStart Academy, we source all course data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — ensuring you get accurate, up-to-date information free from referral fees. Whether you aim to work in government, NGOs, or international organisations, this qualification builds critical analytical and policy-making skills. Read on for fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and step-by-step application guidance.
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Graduate Diploma in Public Policy (CRICOS 096020B) is a 1-year Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) from Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), a government-funded university in Melbourne, Victoria. The course falls under the Society and Culture field (0901 - Political Science and Policy Studies). Students develop skills in policy analysis, evaluation, and implementation — preparing for roles in public administration, advocacy, and research. RMIT is one of over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. As an ESOS Act-protected institution, RMIT ensures international students receive the same quality assurances as domestic students. This course does not lead to a dual qualification or include a foundation studies component. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
The Graduate Diploma in Public Policy focuses on political science and policy studies (Field of Education code 090100). At AQF Level 8, students typically engage in advanced theoretical and applied learning — critiquing policy frameworks, conducting research, and evaluating program outcomes. Core areas include public policy processes, governance, ethics, and data-driven decision-making. While specific subjects are set by RMIT, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate high-level cognitive skills and autonomy in professional contexts. The course is taught entirely in English, with no mandatory work component. For a detailed syllabus, refer to the provider's website.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 1 year (52 weeks) in duration. Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Study mode is typically full-time on campus; confirm availability of part-time or online options directly with RMIT. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy come from the official CRICOS register, ensuring duration and language details are verified.
Tuition fee: A$39,360 per year (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register as at April 2026). Non-tuition fees: A$373. Estimated total: A$39,733. These fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check RMIT's website. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees only; fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 for this level. Prior qualifications: a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field is usually expected. RMIT may consider work experience or alternative pathways. This course does not include a foundation program; if you need additional preparation, contact RMIT for pathway options. English language requirements are set by the provider and may vary. Always verify with RMIT's admissions team. For detailed entry requirements, visit the provider's website.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course curriculum.
This course is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne — in the heart of Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is well-served by public transport (trams, trains, buses), making it accessible from suburbs like Carlton, Brunswick, and Southbank. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$120, and a Myki monthly pass around A$150. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, and strong employment opportunities in policy and government sectors.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: meeting GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) criterion, maintaining OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + airfares). Current student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks (check visa conditions). Melbourne's cost of living is around A$25,000–$30,000 per year for a single student. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. For accurate visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Public Policy at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and city (Melbourne). Confirm RMIT is CRICOS-registered (00122A). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check RMIT's entry requirements, English language test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once RMIT issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For step-by-step visa guidance, see our student visa page.
Ready to apply? Check RMIT's entry requirements and start your application today. For visa guidance, visit our Student Visa Subclass 500 page.
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Graduate Diploma in Public Policy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.