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About the course
This interdisciplinary masters is designed for high-performing students aiming for research-focused careers in governance and regulation, with potential progression to doctoral study. You build a strong foundation in governance concepts, institutions and processes, then deepen expertise through specialist masterclasses and advanced research training. The program includes a substantial 24-unit thesis and draws on real-world case studies across areas such as climate, health, justice, development and technology.
What you might learn
Students develop advanced research capability in the theory and practice of regulation and governance. The program builds skills in interdisciplinary inquiry, critical analysis and research design through methods and social theory training, masterclasses and a supervised thesis. Graduates learn to investigate complex policy and societal challenges, apply appropriate qualitative and quantitative approaches, and communicate evidence-based insights that inform governance across public, private and civil society settings.
Career outcome
Graduates are prepared for research-led roles in governance and regulation across government, international organisations, NGOs and policy or advocacy bodies, as well as consulting and corporate governance contexts. The strong research component supports pathways to PhD study and careers in academia or research institutes. Typical outcomes include policy or regulatory analyst, governance advisor, program evaluation specialist, compliance or risk policy roles, and research officer positions in complex social and technology-driven domains.
Entry requirements
Applicants need a Bachelor degree (or international equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 6/7, plus meeting ANU English language requirements. Entry is competitive and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants with a Bachelor degree or Graduate Certificate in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 24 units (one semester) credit; those with a Graduate Diploma or Honours in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 48 units (one year) credit.
Average Salary***
