Master of Public Administration (CRICOS course code 102923H) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for professionals seeking advanced skills in public sector leadership, policy analysis, and governance. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00120C), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. The course falls under Field of Education 0901 - Political Science and Policy Studies, preparing graduates for senior roles in government, non-profits, and international organisations. With Australia having over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, this degree at ANU — consistently ranked among the world's top universities — offers a prestigious pathway. Located in Canberra, Australia's capital, students benefit from proximity to federal government institutions. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify details with the provider before applying.
Master of Public Administration (CRICOS course code 102923H) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 9 qualification focuses on Political Science and Policy Studies (field code 0901), equipping students with expertise in public policy formulation, public financial management, and strategic leadership. The program is taught in English and is a single qualification (no dual degree). It does not include a mandatory work component, though students may undertake voluntary internships or research projects. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures compliance with the ESOS Act, providing legal protections for international students. The provider, Australian National University, is a government-funded institution with CRICOS code 00120C. Data sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
This Master of Public Administration covers the policy cycle, evidence-based decision-making, and public sector ethics. Students engage with contemporary issues in governance, including digital transformation, fiscal policy, and intergovernmental relations. The curriculum typically includes core units on public management, policy analysis, and research methods, with elective options to specialise in areas like environmental policy, health governance, or international development. The course aims to develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and stakeholder engagement skills. Graduates are prepared for roles such as policy advisor, program manager, or senior executive in public service. While specific syllabi vary, the field of education (Political Science and Policy Studies) ensures a strong theoretical and practical foundation.
The program is offered full-time over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning students earn one degree upon completion. There is no foundation studies or VET component. The course is delivered on campus at ANU's Canberra City West location. Part-time study may be available subject to visa conditions; check with the provider. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. ANU may offer flexible delivery modes including blended learning; confirm directly with the institution.
Tuition for the Master of Public Administration is indicative at A$84,940 (total for 78 weeks). Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, materials) are approximately A$560, bringing the estimated total to A$85,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For context, average weekly costs for an international student in Canberra are approximately: rent A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. Always confirm current fees on ANU's website at http://www.anu.edu.au/ before applying.
English language proficiency is a key requirement, typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree, preferably in a related field such as political science, public administration, or social sciences. Some universities require relevant work experience. ANU may offer pathway options like a Graduate Certificate or Diploma leading to this master's, but foundation studies are not applicable for this course level. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission — the final decision rests with the provider. Consult ANU's website for detailed prerequisites. For visa purposes, you must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and financial capacity.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no required internship, placement, or work experience integrated into the curriculum. However, students may independently seek voluntary or part-time work (subject to visa work rights). Check with ANU for any optional professional development opportunities or industry projects that may be available.
The Master of Public Administration is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 200,000 residents and a student population of approximately 40,000 across multiple universities. It has excellent public transport, including light rail and buses, connecting suburbs to campus. Canberra offers a high quality of life with many parks, museums, and government institutions. The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs lists Canberra as a regional area for migration purposes, offering potential post-study work visa benefits. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers exist nationally, but ANU is one of the leading research universities in the country.
International students require a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, adequate OSHC health insurance, and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$24,505 per year for a single student), and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be met. Dependents may apply for a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590). All CRICOS courses are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice and visiting the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements.
Follow these steps to apply for the Master of Public Administration at Australian National University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Political Science), and location (ACT). Confirm CRICOS registration for ANU (00120C). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit ANU's website (http://www.anu.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your application through the university's online portal with required documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ANU issues a CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa application charge, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. Your visa decision will depend on meeting all requirements.
Canberra is ideal if you seek a purpose-built capital city with a strong public sector presence. It offers a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–A$450. The city is safe, clean, and student-friendly, with abundant green spaces. However, it has a smaller population and fewer entertainment options than larger cities. As a political hub, studying the Master of Public Administration here provides unmatched networking opportunities with government agencies and think tanks. Consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals when choosing Canberra.
All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission, no referral fees. Every CRICOS-registered course is protected under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing rights such as access to complaints processes and tuition protection. Student visa guidance is provided for reference only; always consult official sources or a MARA agent for personal advice.
Ready to embark on your Master of Public Administration journey? Visit ANU's website to apply, or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
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Master of Public Administration 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.