Course Postgraduate

Graduate Certificate in Public Policy

Course details for:
Entry requirements
ATAR:
more entry options
Study mode
Part Time
First year fee (domestic)
$8,820
Full course fee (domestic)
$8,820
Full time duration
1
Murdoch code
C1175

The fees provided are indicative and intended only as a guide. They are based on a typical full-time enrolment for a first year student at Murdoch University of 24 credit points. The indicative fee is based on the applicable Commonwealth Supported Fee.

Course overview

In this course, you will learn about the theory and practice of public policy and public sector management. You will develop core analytical and problem-solving skills that will help you to prepare for a career in government, the not-for-profit, and private sectors in Australia and internationally. 

3 reasons to study a Graduate Certificate in Public Policy at Murdoch 

  1. Study on your own terms. Classes are offered in a range of flexible modes that allows you to fit study around your other commitments. 
  1. Opportunities to attend free skills-based research workshops and seminars   
  1. Travel to Indonesia as part of the Study Indonesia Australian Consortium for 'In-Country' Indonesian Studies (ACICIS) program and earn credit towards your course while putting your learning into practice. 

Develop your skills 

Build essential skills and knowledge to meet your career or study goals. Topics you will cover include: 

  • Foundations of public policy  
  • The essentials of public sector management and administration 

Your future career 

If you are a recent graduate expanding your knowledge about public policy, or exploring a new career direction, this course will equip you with new professional skills that will give you a competitive edge in your career. 

You could find work in the government and public sector, the not-for-profit sector and in business, in roles such as: 

  • Policy analyst  
  • Political adviser 
  • Public servant 
  • Policy evaluation

Start dates

Starting period Location Face to Face Online Mixed mode
Semester 1, 2026 Murdoch Yes No Yes
Semester 2, 2026 Murdoch Yes No Yes
Semester 1, 2027 Murdoch Yes No Yes
Semester 2, 2027 Murdoch Yes No Yes

View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.

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For student support and full time employment in Humanities and Social Sciences.

Good Universities Guide 2026*

Customise your degree

Combine a wide range of majors, co-majors and minors to develop knowledge and skills in multiple disciplines.

Get hands-on experience

Complete internships and placements through our industry connections, including community groups, government agencies and private organisations.

Admission requirements

Completion of a Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent.

English Requirements

You must meet a minimum standard in English to study at Murdoch, which for most courses can be demonstrated by providing evidence that you have completed Year 11 and 12 in Australia at any level if you are a domestic student, or through either English proficiency tests, university preparation courses, English language courses, previous tertiary study or vocational education.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Everyone has a different path to university so if you’ve already completed formal or informal learning, you could receive advanced standing. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can reduce the amount of study needed to complete your degree by giving you credit for certain units.

Formal learning can include previous study in higher education vocational education or adult and community education. Informal learning can include on the job learning, various kinds of work and life experience.

Find out more

This information applies to courses offered at our Australian campuses only. Courses offered at our Dubai  and Singapore campuses or delivered by Open Universities Australia may have different requirements.

Admissions and pathways

Unsure whether you qualify for entry or what path to take? Whether you're a school leaver or non-school leaver, our range of pathways can help you get into Murdoch. Check out the options available to find the best one for you.

Choose your pathway

Plan your course

Explore the sample course structure below to get an idea of what your degree could look like, or take the next step in planning your degree:

Use the Course Visualiser - build your personalised study plan interactively

Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.

To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.

Unit code Unit name Credit points

Fees & Scholarships

Fees

Full course fee: 
$8,820
First year fee: 
$8,820

The fees provided are indicative and intended only as a guide. They are based on a typical full-time enrolment for a first year student at Murdoch University of 24 credit points. The indicative fee is based on the applicable Commonwealth Supported Fee.

Scholarships

Make the most of your university experience by reducing the financial costs with a scholarship. Whether you're a high achiever or have experienced hardship, we offer a wide range of scholarships and awards to students from all walks of life. Explore our scholarships to find the ones you could be eligible for as a new Murdoch student as well as what's available throughout your degree.

How to Apply

Your document checklist

Ready to apply? Before you start, make sure you have all the following documentation ready for a quick application.

Compulsory documents

Evidence that you meet Academic entry and English language requirements such as:

  • Official Academic Transcripts and Certificates of Completion (of your highest academic study)
  • Evidence of meeting the minimum English language requirements

Recommended documents (if applicable)

  1. Change of name documentation
  2. Marriage certificate
  3. Unit outlines if applying for Advanced Standing
Apply via an agent

Apply through an agent

If you’re applying as an international student, our global network of agents will help you get started on your journey.

Student Central team helping student with laptop

Apply directly to Murdoch

If you are a non School leaver, you can apply for most undergraduate, honours and postgraduate courses directly through our online application system.

View all ways to apply

There are many ways to apply to Murdoch University as we know everyone has a different path and journey. Get started and take the next step.

All fees are indicative and are provided as a guide only. The actual fees will depend on the individual units you enrol in. You should refer to your Letter of Offer for specific course and fee related information.

The first-year indicative fee is based on a typical full-time enrolment at Murdoch University of 24 credit points.

For domestic students, including Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens, the indicative fee is based on the applicable Commonwealth Supported fee.

Indicative fees for international students are based on applicable full fee paying rates.

The estimated, indicative fee covers tuition fees only, and certain additional fees and charges may apply, depending on the course and units you choose. It also does not take into account any scholarships or bursaries for which you may be eligible.

The estimated, indicative fee assumes no fee increases or indexation. Over time, fee increases or indexation may occur and will affect the estimate. If you are a full fee paying student, this may occur at the start of your second and each subsequent year of study. In the case of Commonwealth Supported students, this will occur for each new calendar year in line with Government policy.

All fee estimates are provided in Australian dollars.

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1300 687 3624

1300 687 3624

1300 687 3624

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