Demography

The Master of Demography at the Australian National University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to analyze and interpret population data and trends. This program focuses on understanding the complex factors influencing population change, including fertility, mortality, migration, and social, economic, and environmental impacts. Students will engage with advanced statistical and methodological techniques to conduct independent research and produce evidence-based insights into demographic patterns and issues. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in government agencies, international organizations, research institutes, and nongovernmental organizations that require expertise in population studies. Through coursework and research projects, students will explore topics such as aging populations, urbanization, population health, and policy development, gaining a multidimensional understanding of demographic phenomena. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and the application of demographic data to inform policy decisions that promote sustainable development and social well-being. With access to ANU’s world-class research facilities and expert faculty, students will benefit from a vibrant academic community committed to advancing knowledge in the field of demography. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to contribute to informed policy-making, demographic research, and data analysis in diverse professional settings. The Master of Demography at ANU represents an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about studying population dynamics and seeking to make a meaningful impact on society through informed, data-driven approaches.

The Master of Demography offered by the Australian National University is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills necessary to understand and interpret demographic processes and their impact on societies, economies, and public policies. This program provides a rigorous curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including population dynamics, fertility and mortality trends, migration patterns, aging populations, and the implications of demographic change for urban planning, healthcare, and economic development. Students will engage with both quantitative and qualitative research methods, ensuring they can effectively analyze demographic data and contribute to evidence-based decision-making.

The program emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from sociology, economics, public health, and geography to foster a holistic understanding of demographic phenomena. Core courses include demographic methods and techniques, population policies, and the social and economic implications of demographic change. Students also have the opportunity to undertake specialized electives in areas such as reproductive health, migration studies, or environmental impacts of population growth. The curriculum is designed not only to deepen theoretical understanding but also to develop practical skills through projects, case studies, and applied research.

Students in the Master of Demography will benefit from the university’s strong links with government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations, providing opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. The program prepares graduates for careers in government departments, international agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and the private sector, where expertise in demographic analysis is increasingly in demand. With a strong focus on data science and policy assessment, the program aims to produce professionals who can contribute effectively to addressing contemporary demographic challenges and shaping sustainable development strategies.

Throughout the course, students will also explore ethical considerations in demographic research, ensuring responsible and sensitive handling of population data. Whether aiming to pursue academic research, public policy roles, or consulting positions, graduates of this program will emerge with a robust understanding of demography’s role in shaping societal futures, along with the practical skills to implement their knowledge in various professional contexts.

A doctorate degree or international equivalent with a GPA of 5/7. All candidates need to meet the University's English Language Entrance Requirements.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Australian National University offers various financing options for students enrolled in its Demography programs. International students are typically required to demonstrate proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs for the duration of their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the specific program and student status, with domestic students benefiting from Commonwealth supported places or tax concessions. Students can access government scholarships, fellowships, and research grants to assist in funding their studies. The university also offers scholarships specifically for postgraduates, including merit-based and need-based awards, which can significantly reduce financial burdens. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as private scholarships, industry-sponsored scholarships, and international student funds.

The university provides detailed guidance on estimating living costs, which include accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation, and personal expenses. International students should budget for approximately AUD 20,000 to AUD 25,000 annually for living expenses, though this figure can vary based on lifestyle and location. ANU also offers flexible payment options for tuition fees, enabling students to pay in installments rather than a lump sum. There are options for deferred payments and financial counseling services to assist students in creating manageable financial plans.

Furthermore, the Australian Government’s student financial assistance programs, such as the HECS-HELP scheme for eligible domestic students, can be utilized to defer tuition fee payments. International students are advised to explore potential scholarships provided by their home countries or international bodies. The university also encourages students to undertake part-time employment, adhering to visa regulations, to supplement their income during their studies. Overall, ANU provides comprehensive financial support options, guidance, and resources to help students effectively plan and finance their education in Demography, ensuring access to quality education without undue financial hardship.

The Australian National University offers a comprehensive program in Demography designed to equip students with a deep understanding of population dynamics and their implications for society, policy, and research. This program covers a wide range of topics including population change, aging, fertility, mortality, migration, and urbanization. Students will explore theoretical frameworks and empirical methods used to analyze demographic patterns and trends, applying statistical techniques and sophisticated data analysis to real-world issues. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from economics, sociology, public health, and geography to provide a holistic perspective on population studies.

The program aims to develop critical thinking, research skills, and policy analysis capabilities, preparing graduates for careers in government agencies, international organizations, research institutes, and non-profit sectors. Students will have opportunities to engage in fieldwork, data collection, and analysis, as well as internships that provide practical experience. The program also encourages engagement with contemporary debates surrounding demographic challenges such as population aging, migration policies, fertility decline, and urban growth.

Research opportunities are available for postgraduate students, with access to cutting-edge data sets and facilities. The academic staff are renowned experts in demography, ensuring high-quality teaching and supervision. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to contribute to evidence-based policymaking, research, and advocacy related to demographic issues. The program's location in Canberra offers unique opportunities for collaboration with government agencies and policy-makers, enhancing the practical relevance of the curriculum.

Students may undertake coursework and research components, culminating in a thesis or capstone project that demonstrates their ability to analyze complex demographic issues critically. The program is suitable for students from diverse academic backgrounds who are interested in understanding societal changes and influencing public policy through demographic research and analysis. Overall, the Demography program at ANU is dedicated to fostering analytical skills, innovative thinking, and a deep understanding of population science to address the pressing demographic questions of today and the future.