Public Policy and Governance

Public Policy and Governance at UNSW Sydney offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in understanding, analyzing, and shaping public policies and governance systems. This program is designed for individuals aspiring to make a meaningful impact in government, non-profit organizations, international agencies, and the private sector involved in policy development and implementation. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will explore the fundamental principles of public administration, policy analysis, governance frameworks, and the social, economic, and political factors that influence policy decisions.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, including critical thinking, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication. Students will examine key topics such as public sector management, policy formulation processes, accountability mechanisms, public ethics, and the role of technology in governance. The program emphasizes real-world applications through case studies, policy simulations, internships, and collaborative projects with government agencies and community organizations.

Graduates of this program will be equipped to work effectively in complex governance environments, offering innovative solutions to public challenges and contributing to effective policy-making. The program also prepares students for further academic research or advanced studies in related fields. With access to UNSW’s extensive resources, expert faculty, and a vibrant campus community, students will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate and influence the evolving landscape of public policy and governance both within Australia and internationally. This degree opens up diverse career opportunities in policy analysis, government advisory roles, international development, advocacy, and leadership in the public sector, fostering the next generation of informed and ethical policy professionals.

The Master of Public Policy and Governance at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the public sector, private organizations, and non-governmental entities. This interdisciplinary course combines theory and practice to equip students with the analytical, strategic, and practical skills necessary to address complex policy challenges in contemporary society. Throughout the program, students will explore a wide range of topics including policy analysis, ethical considerations in governance, public administration, political institutions, economic frameworks, and social justice issues. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking and advanced understanding of how public policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated at local, national, and international levels.

Students will engage with real-world case studies, participate in policy simulations, and undertake supervised research projects that provide practical experience and insight into the decision-making processes. The program emphasizes the development of essential skills such as policy drafting, stakeholder engagement, strategic communication, and data-driven analysis to support effective governance. It also encourages students to examine contemporary challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, digital transformation, and human rights, preparing them to devise innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

In addition to core courses, students can tailor their learning through electives that cover specialized topics such as international relations, public finance, leadership, and ethics. The program is suitable for recent graduates seeking to enter the public policy arena, as well as professionals aiming to deepen their expertise and advance their careers in governance and policy analysis. The faculty comprises experienced academics and practitioners who bring practical insights into the classroom, fostering an engaging and dynamic learning environment. Graduates of the Master of Public Policy and Governance at UNSW Sydney will be well-equipped to influence policy development, improve governance systems, and contribute positively to society at various levels of government and beyond.

• Inch year plan: Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent) in a related discipline with a list of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65 percent )
• Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a related subject with a record of academic achievement comparable to a UNSW credit average (65 percent ), and 1 year relevant specialist experience. 1.5-year plan: Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline with a list of academic achievement comparable to a UNSW credit average (65 percent )
• Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any area with a record of academic achievement comparable to a UNSW credit average (65 percent ) and 1 year relevant specialist experience
• Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65 percent ) 2 year plan: Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any area with a record of academic achievement comparable to a UNSW credit average of 65 percent.

The Master of Public Policy and Governance at UNSW Sydney offers a range of financial options to support students throughout their studies. International students are required to pay tuition fees which vary depending on their program enrolment and are subject to annual review and change. The indicative annual tuition fee for international students is approximately AUD 44,640, but students should consult the official UNSW fees page for the most current information. Domestic students benefit from funding options such as government loans and scholarships. The New South Wales Government offers the HECS-HELP scheme, which allows eligible domestic students to defer their tuition fees and pay them back through the tax system once they reach a certain income threshold. This significantly reduces the upfront financial burden for Australian citizens and permanent residents.

In addition to government support, numerous scholarships are available for both domestic and international students to ease the cost of study. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other specific criteria, and may cover partial or full tuition fees, living expenses, or research costs. Examples include the UNSW Scholarships Programme, which includes undergraduate and postgraduate awards such as the UNSW Convocation Scholarship and the UNSW International Scholarships.

Students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including fellowships, grants, and sponsorships from government agencies, foundations, and industry partners aligned with public policy and governance sectors. Part-time work opportunities within the university and local community can also help students finance their education. UNSW's location in Sydney provides access to various internships and professional experience programs, which can help students offset costs while gaining practical skills.

Overall, the financial planning for the Master of Public Policy and Governance program should consider tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs. Strategic use of scholarships, government schemes such as HECS-HELP, and part-time employment can significantly alleviate financial pressure and enable students to focus on their academic and professional development goals.

The Bachelor of Public Policy and Governance at UNSW Sydney is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in public service, policy analysis, and governance. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical frameworks with practical skills, enabling graduates to effectively analyze, develop, and implement public policies across local, national, and global contexts. Students are introduced to key concepts in political science, economics, law, and administrative systems, allowing them to understand the complex interactions between government institutions and society. The degree emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills essential for informed decision-making in the public sector. Throughout the program, students have opportunities for real-world engagement through internships, project work, and collaborations with government agencies and non-profit organizations. UNSW’s strong links with industry leaders and government bodies provide valuable networking opportunities and enhance employability after graduation. The program also includes options for specializations or minors, such as international policy or sustainable development, enabling students to tailor their studies to career interests. With a focus on contemporary issues like climate change, social justice, and digital governance, the Bachelor of Public Policy and Governance aims to develop future leaders equipped to address complex societal challenges. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further academic study or to enter careers in policy consultancy, public administration, advocacy, research, or international organizations. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and commitment to research excellence support students throughout their academic journey, ensuring they gain a well-rounded education that combines academic rigor with practical relevance.