Politics and Policy

Deakin's Politics and Policy courses focus on the development, implementation and politics of public policy. They explore the close relations between government, the private sector and community organisations, and the links between different levels of government (local, state, national, and international). Particular attention is paid to the challenges of making governance consistent with the norms of accountability and democracy.

The program has been designed in consultation with stakeholders in government, community and industry to promote collaborative learning and to develop an understanding of the global context for public policy.

Along with core subjects involving democratic governance and accountability, there is a wide range of elective units across five specialisations:

• Public Policy
• Local Governance
• Government Relations
• Global Politics
• Community Development

Your career

These courses are designed for people with an interest in policy research, program development and evaluation, government and community relations in the public sector, local government, and the non-government or community/third sector. They are also suitable for people seeking employment in these areas, or who may be in business, independent consulting, or community work and need to develop their knowledge of politics and policy. With increased emphasis on, for example, public-private partnerships, those in the private sector also need an enhanced understanding of politics and policy and will benefit from these courses.

Employment Opportunities

Postgraduate study in Politics and Policy specialises in advancing and upgrading politics and policy knowledge. It develops skills needed for positions in policy research, analysis and formulation, in both the public and private sectors and in non-government organisations (NGOs). Our graduates work in diverse occupations and professions across a wide range of organisations including:

• public service departments and statutory authorities – local, state and federal
• as policy advisors in state and federal parliaments
• political parties and electoral offices
• business – from small business to multinational corporations
• community organisations
• as policy researchers in NGOs including overseas aid organisations
• as policy researchers in the mass media
• lobby groups
• as policy consultants

 

Why choose Deakin University?

Knowledge and skills
The Politics and Policy courses cover key issues, concepts and analysis required by professionals working in public policy. In addition to the core focus on democratic governance and accountability, five specialisations enable one to focus on public policy, government relations, community development, local governance, and global politics. Units of study are under constant review to be directly relevant to professional advancement.

Flexibility
We know that postgraduate study is a big commitment. Deakin’s postgraduate program is genuinely flexible to help you fit your studies in with workplace and personal commitments.

Quality
At Deakin we pride ourselves on providing quality postgraduate courses. Excellence is evident in all aspects of our courses from the standard of our study materials to the teaching staff, who are leaders in their field. Setting a benchmark for Australian universities, our library service is among the best in the world. Regardless of where you live, resources can be posted, or accessed from our library’s comprehensive electronic collection.

Technology
As a Deakin student you have access to the best new technologies. The University has produced its own Software Essentials DVD to support online communication. All units offer a dedicated teaching and learning site Deakin Studies Online.

Networks
As a Deakin postgraduate student, you will become part of a network of researchers, academics, alumni and practitioners. You will have access to specialist knowledge and the opportunity to establish new resources and contacts with people who are currently shaping and influencing public policy.