Master of Administrative Law and Policy

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Master of Administrative Law and Policy at the University of Sydney is designed for professionals working in law, government, economics, social work, and policy who want to develop advanced knowledge of administrative law and public policy. The program brings together law, government, and social policy to support career development in public administration and policy-making.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students complete 48 credit points. Core subjects include Administrative Law and The Politics of Policy Making, while students without a law degree also complete Legal Reasoning and the Common Law System. Students then choose electives from areas such as public policy, governance, environmental law, public health law, social policy, and government.

Focus Areas: Administrative law, public policy, government, governance, public administration, social policy, environmental policy, public sector ethics, and legal research.

Learning Outcomes: Analyse complex administrative law and policy issues, apply legal principles to government practice, conduct research, evaluate public policy, solve complex governance problems, and communicate clear and persuasive conclusions.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is a professional master's degree that combines legal and interdisciplinary study, making it suitable for lawyers, policy analysts, public administrators, and professionals seeking advancement in government and related fields.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The program provides an interdisciplinary learning environment through Sydney Law School and other university faculties. Graduates can progress into roles in government departments, public administration, policy development, regulatory agencies, law firms, consulting, social policy organisations, and research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Sydney, the Master of Administrative Law and Policy program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of administrative law. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage with real-world scenarios and develop competencies that are highly valued in the legal and public policy sectors.

Students benefit from a variety of facilities and resources that enhance their learning experience, including access to state-of-the-art libraries, research institutes, and collaborative spaces. Here’s how the program fosters experiential learning:

- Internships and Work Placements: Opportunities to undertake internships with government agencies, NGOs, and legal firms, providing hands-on experience in administrative law and policy-making.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and practical application of legal principles, often involving case studies and real-life policy challenges.
- Digital Tools: Access to specialized legal research databases and software, such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, which are essential for conducting thorough legal research and analysis.
- Field Trips: Organized visits to government institutions and legal bodies, offering insights into the workings of administrative law in practice.
- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research centers and laboratories that focus on public policy and administrative law, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research.
- Libraries: The University of Sydney’s extensive library system, including the Law Library, provides a wealth of resources, including books, journals, and online databases tailored to administrative law and policy studies.
- Guest Lectures and Workshops: Regular sessions with industry professionals and academics, providing students with current insights and networking opportunities in the field of administrative law.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Administrative Law and Policy at the University of Sydney equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in various roles within the public and private sectors. Graduates often find themselves in positions such as policy advisor, compliance manager, or legal consultant, where they can influence decision-making and contribute to effective governance. This program not only enhances your understanding of administrative law but also opens doors to a range of exciting career opportunities:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career support, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals.
- Employment Statistics: The university boasts a strong employment rate, with over 90% of graduates securing employment within six months of graduation, often with competitive starting salaries averaging around AUD 80,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Sydney has established partnerships with leading organizations, such as the Australian Public Service and various NGOs, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is recognized by key professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification remains relevant and respected in the field of administrative law.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold influential positions in government, non-profit organizations, and private firms, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for impactful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Administrative Law and Policy, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Law or Public Policy. This path allows you to engage in advanced research, contribute to academic discourse, and potentially teach at the university level, further enhancing your expertise and career prospects.

By choosing this program, you are not just investing in your education; you are paving the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in administrative law and policy.