University of Canberra

Graduate Certificate in Public Policy

Nationally Recognised Higher Education

The Graduate Certificate in Public Policy is aimed at middle-level managers and professionals in the workforce industries that service the community in Canberra and Australia more widely, including the Australian Public Service, Local and State governments, NGOs, and not for profit sectors aiming to influence government policy.

The Certificate introduces the study and practice of public policy and explores a range of critical and analytical perspectives on the broad political, economic and cultural factors informing the development and implementation of public policy in Australia.

It provides students with the capacity to critically analyse and understand evidence-based practice in developing sound public policy, as well as a conceptual understanding of the use of data, statistics and their analysis that can be readily applied to the real life challenges of policy analysis.

Graduates will apply knowledge and skills by demonstrating well developed judgement on the significance of equity from the multiple standpoints of race, class, gender, age and ability including the crucial role of leadership in effecting equitable outcomes.

Delivery mode

University of Canberra offers this course through the following delivery modes:

Online

Set your own study schedule and balance study with your other commitments.


Entry requirements

Domestic Students

  • There are no mandated entry requirements.

A completed bachelors degree or equivalent; or 3 years relevant work experience.

Academic entry requirements

A completed bachelors degree or equivalent; or 3 years relevant work experience.

English language requirements

An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).

Additional requirements may apply.

Course fees

Estimated Fee* $13,150 - $13,700 Fees are based on full-time study.
* Fees are indicative only and vary based on your circumstances and eligibility for government funding.
Standard Tuition:
$13,700
Full Fee Tuition:
$13,700
Enquire with University of Canberra to find out more.
Study mode Online
Duration 8 Months
Estimated fee* $13,150 - $13,700 Support may be available

Career opportunities

The Graduate Certificate in Public Policy will prepare you for the following roles.

About University of Canberra

Dynamic and vibrant, the University of Canberra (UC) is embedded deep in the soul of Canberra, the Australian capital. Canberra is a place where ideas are born, creativity is explored and opportunity is created.

Our home in Canberra and connection with our neighbouring communities shapes our purpose as a university. Whether it’s fostering innovation, meeting health-care needs, solving environmental challenges or equipping our future leaders, our University is an embodiment of our distinctive city. Canberra is a wonderful place to live, study and work – a safe, connected, multicultural city which boasts great scenery, excellent entertainment and sports venues, a buzzing food scene and a glittering galaxy of cultural institutions.

UC is a university for the professions, dedicated to providing immersive student experiences focussed on employability outcomes. We’re ranked in the top 5 universities in the world for reducing inequalities (THE Impact Rankings 2021, 2023), in the world’s top 300 universities (THE, 2023) and ranked number one in the ACT for full-time employment and teaching quality (GUG 2023). These are remarkable achievements for a university only recently celebrating its 30th anniversary.

This success is in part due to our two-pronged focus, encompassing progressive teaching and learning, as well as strong ties to industry. The latter means that students enjoy real-world work experience, internships and clinical placements meaning UC students get a taste for their future careers, even before graduation.

As new developments continue to expand the campus one thing the University has maintained over its 30 years is its indomitable, distinctive character. Our location in Australia’s capital city has shaped the University as progressive and dynamic – dedicated to public service and building a sustainable and prosperous future. As a hub of learning, practical courses, innovative research and new opportunities, it will always be the University in, of and for Canberra