Graduate Certificate
The Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership is designed to help experienced managers and professionals advance their skills and accelerate their career growth in the field of public policy.
The Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership is designed to help experienced managers and professionals advance their skills and accelerate their career growth in the field of public policy. The Graduate Certificate enhances participants' understanding of the current and future state of public policy through a local and global lens, develops advanced critical thinking skills to effectively analyse complex policy systems and deepens skills in communication with diverse audiences in a government setting.
Developed by public policy experts and leading academics, the program provides a comprehensive, globally-informed understanding of public policy and governance. It examines tactics for navigating complex, multi-layered policy systems and explores techniques for effective communications across large public sector organisations.
The Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership is ideal for those exploring a career as a senior public administrator, public service executive or policy manager, or professionals already working within complex public policy governance systems to develop their leadership skills.
Delivered by UNSW Canberra, the Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership provides a launchpad for experienced professionals looking to accelerate their career growth in public policy or make the transition into a public policy role. The program teaches sought-after leadership skills to enable leaders to drive change, foster culture and lead in large organisations across various public sector settings.
Australia's public sector is in need of experienced, ethical professionals, committed to improving the outcomes and experiences of the Australian people. In a recent independent review of the Australian Public Service (APS) led by Mr David Thodey AO, the official recommendations to improve the performance of the APS included "strengthening service-wide leadership and governance" as well as "working with partners" outside the public service in delivering outcomes. This focus on leadership and collaboration presents an opportunity for professionals in the sector to work with others to deliver meaningful outcomes for the Australian people.
Study at a global top 20 university
When you complete the Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership, you'll gain a widely-recognised qualification from a world-renowned institution. Part of the wider UNSW network, UNSW Canberra represents one of Australia's leading universities, recognised for research excellence and impact. We're also a founding Group of Eight member - a coalition of Australia's leading research-intensive universities.
Flexible study options to suit you
Grow your skill set and nurture your potential with a program that fits around your life. The Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership is a predominantly online course spread across the full academic calendar, enabling you to easily balance work, study and other commitments.
Industry-aligned coursework
Our programs are carefully developed in line with the latest industry trends and developments. We regularly consult with practitioners, academics and researchers to ensure our programs provide students with the most up-to-date information to prepare them for success beyond the classroom.
To gain entry into the Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership, an applicant must meet one of the following entry requirements:
Completion of a Bachelor degree with honours in the same or a related discipline* from a recognised institution; or
Completion of a Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate in the same or a related discipline* from a recognised institution; or
Completion of a Bachelor degree in the same or a related discipline* from a recognised institution; and completion of at least three years relevant full-time professional experience; or
Completion of a Bachelor degree in a non-related discipline; and completion of at least four years relevant full-time professional experience.
*Related Discipline/s: Public Policy, Political Science, Management, IT, Business
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you're completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
This program is suitable for managers and experienced professionals in the public sector or public sector-adjacent roles. The Australian Public Sector has over 100 departments and agencies, from those looking after aged care, children's health and mental health to the High Court of Australia, Fair Work Ombudsman and the Department of Defence. Professional opportunities are varied and plentiful - you can explore active listings through the APS Jobs portal.
Students who successfully complete the Graduate Certificate in Policy Leadership may be eligible for course credits* into the Master of Business Administration (MBA), offered by AGSM @ UNSW Business School.
*Entry into AGSM MBA programs is subject to meeting the AGSM Admissions Criteria.
Potential roles in Policy LeadershipThis course teaches skills that help prepare participants for a range of public sector roles including roles in: