A graduate diploma in public policy may teach you about policy-making and management, but what can you do with it once you have graduated? You head online for answers but are met with conflicting and contradictory answers, leaving you frustrated and confused, trying to figure out where to turn or who to trust.
Well, no more! Today, we are here with the answers you need. Our brief guide walks you through the program and what career opportunities are available once you obtain a graduate public policy diploma.
What Is a Graduate Diploma in Public Policy?
A graduate diploma in public policy is a course that builds on your foundational knowledge of public policy, teaching you about policy and data analysis, economic modelling, and evaluation to help you progress your policy management and career. The course aims to teach you practical skills that help you deliver policies, respond to contemporary changes, analyse data, and use this to evaluate current policies.
The course typically takes one to two years, depending on your chosen study path. Most providers offer a complete and part-time option, with several allowing you to learn online with completely remote courses. Online courses are flexible, allowing you to complete your diploma around work and life commitments, including children and caring responsibilities.
A graduate diploma in public policy will be split into eight units, where you will cover the following topics:
- Co-design and deliberative engagement
- Communicating policy expertise
- Data analytics and public policy
- Equity, leadership, and policy
- Evidence-based policy analysis
- Foundations of public policy
- Policy analysis and evaluation
- Public policy governance and law
The titles of these units can vary from course to course, but you will likely cover these topics as you prepare for a career in policy-making and management. The units will feature case studies where you will look at current and previous policies for your analysis and evaluations. The assessments will vary from course to course, with your course provider offering specific information about this.
What Can I Do With A Graduate Diploma In Public Policy?
There are several career opportunities available with a graduate diploma in public policy. Most students enjoy careers in administration, education, research, planning, and management. There are many roles within these sectors that a graduate diploma in public policy qualifies you for, which we have listed below:
- Policy analysts in local, national, and state governments
- Advisers to political parties, business groups, and trade unions
- Policy and research managers in public and private sectors
- Policy and stakeholder engagement officer
With many sectors looking for public policy graduates, you can work for something other than the government. You could move into the private sector, planning and managing policies for large corporations or small businesses. The diploma prepares you for various sectors, increasing your opportunities.
You can also choose to return to education after completing your graduate diploma in public policy. Some students continue their studies to achieve a master’s in public policy. How this happens varies depending on your course provider, but usually, you can complete an additional four units to qualify for your master’s degree.
A master’s degree can give you access to higher-paid roles than your graduate diploma, which is why some students choose to return. Their employer might also ask them to return to complete a master’s to provide them with an understanding of a specialised area within public policy.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Study A Graduate Diploma In Public Policy?
The qualifications you need for a graduate diploma in public policy vary depending on your course provider. You can check the specific entry requirements for your course online or by contacting the course provider directly. Usually, you will need one of the following to apply for a graduate diploma in public policy:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- A higher level qualification in any discipline from a recognised institution
- Three years of relevant work experience
- A graduate certificate in public policy
- A graduate certificate in policy evaluation
You can contact the admissions team at your course provider to learn more about the entry requirements and the application process.
Final Thoughts
Many career opportunities are available to you once you have your graduate diploma in public policy. Whether you want to work as a researcher, adviser, or manager, a graduate diploma in public policy can allow you to progress into these roles or make a career change. When applying for these roles, check what qualifications and experience are needed to find the perfect role for you and your new qualification.