Master's Degree Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Master in Policy Studies

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

049402M

CRICOS provider code

00026A

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

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$54,100 total

Per year

A$54,100/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master in Policy Studies at the University of Sydney offers students a comprehensive understanding of policy-making processes and the skills necessary to effectively engage in the public sector. This one-year Master's programme equips students with the analytical tools and theoretical knowledge required to tackle complex policy issues in various sectors including education, health, and urban development. The programme is structured around a series of core units of study, which culminate in a capstone project that allows students to apply their learning in a practical context.

Australian qualifications are structured to provide rigorous academic and professional training; this Master's degree comprises a designated number of credit points achieved through successful completion of all units of study. Students enhance their critical thinking, research abilities, and policy analysis skills, making them adept at evaluating and designing policies that can foster social impact.

This course is particularly suitable for individuals seeking to advance their careers in public policy, government, or related fields. It appeals to those passionate about contributing to social change and who are motivated by the challenges of policy development and implementation. Additionally, the programme features work-integrated learning opportunities that connect students with industry professionals and organizations, ensuring practical experience aligns with academic learning.

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
Government Relations Officer
Public Affairs Consultant
Research Officer
Program Manager within Nonprofits

Typical industries that hire graduates include government departments, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations, and private consultancy firms. Graduates may also have the chance to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in Australia after completing their degree.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master in Policy Studies at University of Sydney?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$54,100 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy AnalystGovernment Relations OfficerPublic Affairs ConsultantResearch OfficerProgram Manager within NonprofitsTypical industries that hire graduates include government departments, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations, and private consultancy firms. Grad...

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