Master's Degree Public Policy Full Time

Master of Public Policy

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

103553K

CRICOS provider code

00123M

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$91,000 total

Per year

A$45,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Public Policy at Adelaide University is aimed at students who want a deep understanding of policy design, implementation and analysis. Over two years, students examine how public policy is shaped within Australia and internationally. Case studies cover areas such as social policy, health, environment, and economic development, with a focus on how policy solutions address complex societal issues.

Australian master's degrees are structured around units of study, and students build credits—usually totalling around 48 credit points—through coursework and, where required, a research or professional project. This course typically mixes core policy subjects, electives, and a capstone project or research thesis that draws on real-world challenges. Students may also be able to undertake work-integrated learning, where they gain practical experience through professional placements in government or non-government organisations.

Throughout the course, students develop skills in policy research, critical analysis, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication. Emphasis is placed on the Australian policy environment, meaning graduates grasp how local, state, and federal systems interact. The course suits graduates from fields such as politics, economics, social sciences or those with professional experience in related sectors who want to move into policy roles.

International students have work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and may be eligible for the Post-Study Work stream of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) on completion. Entry requires evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent). Students are encouraged to confirm the specific entry, structure, and placement opportunities with Adelaide University before applying.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Policy analyst in federal, state or local government
Public sector manager
Advisor with non-government organisations
Consultant within policy think tanks or research institutes
Roles in community advocacy or international development agencies
Opportunities in Australian industries such as health, education, environment, urban planning, and social services

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Public Policy at Adelaide University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$91,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy analyst in federal, state or local governmentPublic sector managerAdvisor with non-government organisationsConsultant within policy think tanks or research institutesRoles in community advocacy or international development agenciesOpportunities in Australian industries suc...

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