Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) (CRICOS course code 097616K) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This course is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in a related field and wish to deepen their understanding of policy analysis, public administration, and political processes. Located at ANU's Canberra City West campus, the program leverages Australia's capital as a living laboratory for public policy. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00120C), it meets Australian standards for international students. Whether you aim to work in government, non-profits, or international organisations, this honours year provides advanced research skills and a competitive edge. HeadStart Academy presents this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course.
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The Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) falls under the field of Society and Culture (0901 - Political Science and Policy Studies, specifically 090103 - Policy Studies). At the Bachelor Honours Degree level (AQF Level 8), students typically build on undergraduate knowledge by undertaking advanced coursework and a substantial research project. In this program, you can expect to develop skills in policy analysis, research methodologies, and critical evaluation of public policy frameworks. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, ANU's honours program emphasises independent research, often culminating in a thesis. Graduates are prepared for roles in policy development, advocacy, and leadership across public, private, and community sectors. The course is delivered entirely in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) is structured over 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning you receive one degree upon completion. There is no VET national code as it is a higher education course. The program does not include a mandatory work component. Students are expected to attend classes and conduct research at ANU's Canberra City West campus. For international students, this duration aligns with student visa conditions requiring full-time enrolment. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, ANU must ensure the course meets ESOS Act requirements, including adequate support services for overseas students.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$53,110, with non-tuition fees of A$373, giving an estimated total of A$53,483. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For the most current fee schedule, always check ANU's website directly. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only. Studying in Canberra, the typical weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–450, with weekly groceries about A$80–150. Public transport costs approximately A$40–60 per week with student concessions. International students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs for their visa application.
For the Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours), ANU typically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a certain grade point average. As this is an honours program, applicants are expected to have completed an undergraduate degree, often in political science, public policy, or a related discipline. The English language requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (depending on the provider's specific policy). Other English tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, ANU offers other preparatory programs. International students should check the specific entry criteria on ANU's website. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Always verify with the provider. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa eligibility.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) is a research-oriented program focused on academic study and thesis preparation. 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 allows students to gain part-time work experience in Canberra's policy and government sector if desired. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must balance work with study commitments. ESOS Act protections ensure that students receiving education services have their rights upheld, including access to complaint and appeal processes.
The Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra, Australia's capital, is home to over 50,000 students across multiple universities and colleges. The city offers a unique study environment with direct access to federal government departments, parliamentary institutions, and policy think tanks. Public transport (ACTION buses) connects the campus to the city centre and suburbs, and a light rail line serves key areas. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne; however, it is one of the more expensive cities for rent. The city has a high student population, providing a vibrant yet safe atmosphere. For policy students, Canberra is an ideal location for networking and internships.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Health cover is mandatory — OSHC provides medical and hospital insurance. The Australian Government reviews visa conditions regularly; check the Department of Home Affairs for updates. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with ESOS standards.
To apply for the Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) at Australian National University, follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C) is registered to deliver this honours program.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ANU's website to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents (transcripts, personal statement, references).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once ANU offers you a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa at the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but recommends consulting a MARA agent for visa matters.
Choosing where to study public policy is a strategic decision. Canberra, as the seat of the Australian Government, offers unparalleled opportunities for policy students. The city hosts numerous federal agencies, embassies, and policy institutes, providing potential networking and internship avenues. The Australian National University is consistently ranked among the top universities globally and has strong links to government. However, Canberra's cost of living is higher than average, with weekly rent for a student share house around A$200–300. The city is less bustling than Sydney or Melbourne but offers a calm, study-friendly environment. Public transport is reliable, and campus facilities are modern. Consider your preferences for city size, climate (cool winters), and lifestyle. HeadStart Academy's free resources can help you compare other locations, but remember that only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and ESOS Act protections apply.
Ready to apply? Visit the Australian National University website to start your application for the Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours). Research other CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
All Bachelor Honours Degree courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Bachelor of Public Policy (Honours) 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.