Macquarie University

Master of Public and Social Policy

  • Delivery: Face to Face
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 12 months
  • Course Type: Master's

Develop advanced critical analysis skills to design effective policy solutions for the public interest and make informed judgments across various specialist policy areas.

Course overview

Contemporary public and social policymaking involves balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders and competing interests. Being able to recognise and account for diverse viewpoints - and understand both the opportunities and challenges inherent in policymaking and the research that informs it - will help you make a positive impact on the well-being of others at an individual and community level.

Key facts

Delivery
Face to Face
Course Type
Master's
Duration
More Information
Can be studied part time.
12 months (Full time)
Price Per Unit
From $4,162.5
More Information
The estimated per-unit fee is calculated using the annual average first-year fee. It is based on a full-time study load of 40 cp (4 units) per semester or 80 cp (8 units) per year.
Campus
Macquarie Park
Intake
New start dates announced soon
Units
8
Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP

What you will study

To graduate with a Master of Public and Social Policy, you must earn 80 credit points.

Complete each unit below.

  • Social Impact Assessment
  • Policy Design: Concepts and Case Studies
  • Advanced Introduction to Policy
  • Doing Social Survey Research
  • Evaluating Social Policy
  • Qualitative Methods for Policy
  • Policy Ideas in Focus: Framing Policy Problems
  • Making Public Policy in a Globalised World

Entry Requirements

1 Year (full-time, or equivalent duration if available part-time)

  • AQF level 8 bachelor honours or graduate diploma qualification in a related field or recognised equivalent.

Meet two of the following three criteria:

  • AQF level 7 bachelor's qualification in a related field or recognised equivalent.
  • Approved work experience, professional certification or other recognised prior learning.
  • AQF level 7 bachelor's qualification or recognised equivalent with a WAM of 65.

Recognition of Prior Learning

With recognition of prior learning (RPL), you could get credit for your prior study and experience, reducing the duration of your studies. Credit is awarded for formal and informal or non-formal learning. You’ll need to apply for RPL once you receive your offer to study at Macquarie.

Outcomes

Career Outcomes

  • Electorate Officer
  • Human Services Consultant
  • Market or Social Researcher
  • Media and Communications Adviser
  • Policy Adviser
  • Policy Analyst
  • Public Servant
  • Social and Community Services Manager
  • Social or Environmental Consultant
  • Social Police Officer

Fees and FEE-HELP

Estimated annual fee in 2025: $33,300 (domestic full-fee paying place)

The estimated fee displayed is based on a standard full-time study load. Fees may increase each year. For courses longer than one year in duration, you'll pay the fee that is current for the year that you enrol.

A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of units studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of units.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee-paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.