Public policy courses

Engage with the complex and challenging world of public policy

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Introduction to Public policy

Prepare for a policy career in the public sector, with private agencies or with not-for-profit organisations. Combine theoretical and practical approaches to public policy. Explore the latest issues and approaches to policy at a local, national and global level.

Engage with the process of policy formation, and understand how to create an environment for successful delivery of programs. Examine the societal and political contexts that can influence policy creation and delivery.

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Matthew, law student, standing outside
Matthew studied law with RMIT through Open Universities Australia

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Online public policy subjects and short courses

University of South Australia

UndergraduateUSA-HLTH2030

Health Law, Ethics and Policy

100% online

No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

Starts 24 Jun 2024

University of Tasmania

100% online

No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

University of South Australia

UndergraduateUSA-HLTH1056

Health Systems and Services

100% online

No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

Starts 24 Jun 2024

University of Tasmania

UndergraduateTAS-HPP101

Introduction to Politics and Policy

100% online

No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

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Online public policy degrees

Griffith University

A double degree in business and politics

Learn the workings of business and government for broad career options in private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Focus your skills and knowledge with majors including international business, economics, public policy, and more.

100% online

4 years full time or part time equivalent

Australian National University

Make a positive impact on others’ wellbeing through policy

Would you like to advise on social policy-making for the government and NGOs? This specialisation may be for you. Explore social policy including challenges in financing of welfare programs, inequality, social justice and more.  

100% online

2 years full time or part time equivalent

Flinders University

Take charge of your government career

Work on the core skills required to manage the business of government. You’ll cover public management theory and ethics, and explore current ideas around public policy. Tailor your course with electives including economics and environmental policy.

100% online

1 year full time or part time equivalent

Macquarie University

PostgraduateMAQ-PSP-MAS

Master of Public and Social Policy

A unique course in Australia

Take a dual focus towards policy and social research. Learn how policy is shaped, before gaining skills to design and deliver your own. Use research to address sustainable communities, welfare, immigration, population health and more.

100% online

1 year full time or part time equivalent

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Discover 85 ways to study public policy with leading Australian universities.

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Public policy study FAQs

Why study public policy online?

Studying online means that you can work in your learning around what you’re doing, whether you have a background in public policy, or you’re exploring a new direction.

Public policy highlights

  • Examine the delivery of policy programs.
  • Explore links between evidence, policy and practice.
  • Learn how public policy reform can be influenced.

Public policy specialisations

  • Understand how to engage stakeholders during the policy formation process.
  • Explore the potential and limits of public policy.
  • Communicate and explain new and existing policy to communities.

Student stories and study advice

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Law is a fascinating field to study—and provides many different areas in which you can specialise. Have you considered these areas of practice? 

What is a Juris Doctor?

Thinking about switching into the legal field? If you already have a qualification, then you should consider studying a Juris Doctor. Here’s everything you need to know about this graduate-level course.

We’re here to guide you to the right uni course

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Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation helping every Australian to access thousands of university courses.

Over 515,000 students have enrolled in university through us since 1993.

How we can help you

Studying through Open Universities Australia means we take care of the guesswork and administration of university study, so you can focus on learning.

You don't need a strong academic history to go to uni

We make it possible for everyone to start university through single subjects, regardless of ATAR or study experience. These subjects are covered by government loans, and can be used to upskill or gain entry into a qualification.

You have the flexibility to start at multiple points during the year

We’re not restricted by a traditional academic calendar, so you can enrol when it suits your life. You also have total control over how you study. You can scale up (or down) your study load and even pause your course if you need to.

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As a not for profit, we have your best interests at heart. Our advisors are here 7 days a week to guide and support you. It’s our priority to get you qualified with the university of your choice.

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