Executive Master of Public Administration

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Australian National University

Program Overview

The Executive Master of Public Administration at The Australian National University is a 1.5-year full-time postgraduate program designed to develop management and policy skills for public sector leadership. The program provides a multidisciplinary grounding in the theory and practice of public administration, public management and public policy.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers core areas of public administration and public policy, including Designing Public Policies and Programs, Government in a Market Economy, Decision Making Under Uncertainty, Governing by the Rules, Leading Public Sector Change, Public Financial Management, Delivering Public Value and Managing Public Sector Organisations.

Year 2: Includes the Work Based Research Project and additional public policy courses offered by the Crawford School of Public Policy, allowing students to apply research methods and policy knowledge to public sector challenges.

Focus Areas: Public Administration, Public Management, Public Policy, Policy Design, Decision Making, Public Financial Management, Public Sector Leadership, Service Delivery and Policy Research.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop a broad understanding of public sector management, service delivery and policy analysis, apply qualitative and quantitative research methods, analyse complex policy problems, develop innovative policy recommendations and improve public sector outcomes.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is designed in consultation with public sector leaders and provides multidisciplinary training in public administration, public management and public policy. It is delivered with core subjects taught by the Australia and New Zealand School of Government.

Reputation (Employability): The program is designed for high-potential and aspiring public sector leaders, combining academic theory, practical public administration and work-based research to develop skills for public sector management and policy roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Australian National University (ANU), the Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) program is designed to equip students with practical skills that are essential for effective leadership in the public sector. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world projects and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in a learning environment that fosters innovation and critical thinking.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the EMPA program:

- Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on case studies and projects that simulate real-world public administration challenges, enhancing teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Internships: Gain hands-on experience through internships with government agencies, non-profits, and international organizations, providing valuable insights into public policy and administration.

- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software and digital platforms for data analysis, project management, and communication, ensuring you are well-versed in the tools used in modern public administration.

- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to government institutions and organizations, allowing you to observe and engage with public administration in action.

- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research laboratories and resources at ANU, including the ANU Library, which houses extensive collections and databases relevant to public policy and administration.

- Institutes and Centers: Engage with specialized institutes such as the Crawford School of Public Policy, which offers additional resources, workshops, and seminars focused on current issues in public administration.

- Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and alumni through events and seminars, expanding your professional network and gaining insights from experienced practitioners.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) at the Australian National University (ANU) equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in leadership roles within the public sector. Graduates often find themselves in influential positions such as Public Policy Advisor, Government Relations Manager, and Nonprofit Executive Director. The program not only enhances your professional capabilities but also opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities:

- University Services: ANU offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events with industry leaders to help you secure employment.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the EMPA program have a high employment rate, with many securing roles shortly after graduation. The average salary for public administration professionals in Australia can range from AUD 80,000 to AUD 120,000, depending on experience and position.
- University–Industry Partnerships: ANU has established strong partnerships with various government agencies and nonprofit organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world project experiences.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The EMPA is recognized by leading professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification remains relevant and respected in the public administration field.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the EMPA program have gone on to hold senior positions in government, international organizations, and influential NGOs, showcasing the program's effectiveness in fostering successful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the EMPA, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Public Administration or related fields. This advanced research degree can deepen your expertise and open up opportunities in academia, research institutions, or high-level consultancy roles. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or executive education programs to enhance your skills and stay competitive in the ever-evolving public sector landscape.