Choosing the Best Course in Public Policy at Australia National University

The optimal course in public policy to study at the Australian National University (ANU) largely depends on your personal interests and career goals. Among the highly regarded programs, the Master of Public Policy (MPP) is often the top choice. This comprehensive program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of public policy analysis, implementation, and evaluation.

Key Features of the MPP at ANU

Interdisciplinary Approach: The MPP integrates economics, political science, and sociology, allowing students to understand policy issues from multiple perspectives. Practical Experience: Many courses include case studies and practical projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Expert Faculty: ANU boasts a faculty with extensive experience in public policy research and practice, providing valuable insights and mentorship. Networking Opportunities: Being in Canberra, students have access to government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, facilitating networking and internship opportunities. Flexible Study Options: The program offers both full-time and part-time study options catering to different student needs.

Other Notable Programs

Bachelor of Public Policy: Ideal for undergraduate students who want to start their journey in public policy. Master of Public Administration (MPA): Focuses more on the management side of public service.

ANU's Strengths in Public Policy

ANU is the best school in Australia and in the Asia Pacific region for international public policy. A strong focus is on Asia Pacific, and there are courses in international relations, strategic studies, and development. Naturally, in these courses, you will look at public policy formulation and efficacy.

For Australian public policy, the recommendation would be the ANZ School of Government, which is a partnership of six universities and offers a Master of Public Administration. This is similar to an MBA for government. ANU is a partner university, so you can study this through them.

I also completed the Strategic Studies master's at ANU, and this program is geared more toward individuals who will research or work in national security and public policy. Ideal for those pursuing careers in defense, intelligence, law enforcement, and related fields.

The students in the Strategic Studies program studied alongside the International Relations students, who tended to move on to careers in foreign affairs and international development.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best course for you will depend on your career aspirations and personal interests within the public policy field. It's advisable to explore course outlines, speak with current students or faculty, and consider what specific skills you wish to develop.