Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance

Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance, graduates will be able to conduct all stages of the policy cycle to analyse complex policy issues, make reliable recommendations, and implement and evaluate policies. Graduates will also gain a firm grasp of the political ideas that shape policies, the structures and responsibilities of various levels of government and the role political parties and other interested groups play in policy and government.

Skills and tools in this course:

1. Policy development and analysis.
2. Research skills.
3. Ethical obligations.
4. In-depth governance understanding.
5. Effective stakeholder engagement.

QUT Online’s Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance opens pathways into policy development roles in government agencies and policy analysis roles in political and non-government organisations. 

The Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance prepares you to navigate and influence the public policy landscape in Australia. Graduates gain practical skills in policy development, analysis, and evaluation, learning to draft cabinet submissions, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and engage in an ethical manner with stakeholders and diverse communities. With a strong foundation in governance structures, policy cycles, and communication strategies, you’ll be equipped to manage projects and lead key policy initiatives across government, political, and non-government sectors.

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance will receive 48 credit points in advanced standing towards the Master of Justice.

Recommended study pattern

You must complete a total of 4 core standard units. Each unit carries 12 credit points.

Core units:

• Developing Impactful Public Policies
• How Government Works
• Evidence-Based Policy: Engaging Stakeholders and Analysing Data
• Shaping Public Policy.

Award requirements

To qualify for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Policy and Governance, students must complete a total of 48 credit points.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $15,600

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

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• A completed bachelor degree (or higher qualification) in any discipline; or
• A completed diploma (or higher qualification) in a relevant area, with at least two years (full-time or equivalent) professional experience in the public sector and/or justice professions; or
• Five years (full-time or equivalent) professional experience in the public sector and/or justice professions.

Five years (full-time or equivalent) professional experience in the public sector and/or justice professions.