Master of Public and Social Policy

The Master of Public and Social Policy equips students with skills and knowledge sought after in government and non-government agencies, and private research organisations, including consultancies. Students learn applied research skills and policy knowledge, and have opportunities to practice a wide range of the analytical, research and writing skills they will use in a work setting. Graduates may enter research, policy, advocacy and social service related roles, within a broad range of settings, including community-based organisations, trade unions, local government, marketing and social research organisations, private consultancies or government policy agencies.

Higher education

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

• Meet two of the following three criteria:

  • AQF level 7 bachelor's qualification in a related field or recognised equivalent

  • Minimum two years relevant approved work experience at senior management level, professional certification or other recognised prior learning

  • AQF level 7 bachelor's qualification or recognised equivalent with a WAM of 65

Related fields for prior qualifications

• Social Sciences
• Applied Mathematics
• Statistics
• Environmental Science and Management
• Public Health and Health Services
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Economics
• Commerce
• Management
• Tourism and Services
• Studies in Human Society
• Psychology and Cognitive Sciences
• Law and Legal Studies
• Journalism and Professional Writing
• Communication and Media Studies
• Cultural Studies
• Historical Studies
• Applied Ethics
• History and Philosophy of Specific Fields

English Proficiency Requirements

The required standard of English for this program is:

Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each band, or equivalent.

All applicants to coursework programs at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English. 

For more information on accepted equivalents, please see English Language Requirements.

The Core zone is compulsory.

With its dual focus on policy analysis and applied social research, the Master of Public and Social policy (OUA) is a unique and innovative course in Australia. Through your studies, you will develop a deep knowledge of how policy is shaped, as well as the skills to help you analyse, design and deliver effective policy solutions to serve the public interest. You will also acquire the knowledge and skills to engage with and undertake research addressing global challenges facing contemporary societies, including sustainable communities, welfare reform, immigration, population health, drugs and alcohol.

Recommended Study Pattern

Structure - 80 credit points

Students have to complete the eight core subjects:

Core Zone - 80 credit points

• GEOX8010 Social Impact Assessment 
• POIX8000 Policy Design: Concepts and Case Studies
• POIX8090 Advanced Introduction to Policy
• SOCX8015 Doing Social Survey Research
• SOCX8020 Evaluating Social Policy
• SOCX8035 Qualitative Methods for Policy
• SOCX8075 Policy Ideas in Focus: Framing Policy Problems
• SOCX8080 Making Public Policy in a Globalised World

Award Requirements

Students must complete 8 subjects to qualify for the Master of Public and Social Policy

Please note:

Once you have been admitted into your degree, you must enrol in at least one subject in the study term immediately following admission, and you must remain enrolled past the census date. If not, your admission will lapse and you will need to re-apply for the degree again. Deferment is not available for OUA students.

 https://students.mq.edu.au/study/faculties/open-universities-australia/degree-information.