Executive Master of Public Administration - 310JA

Administer a rewarding career in the public sector

If you are an aspiring future leader who is keen to work in a high-level position within the public sector, this multidisciplinary degree will arm you with the leadership and policy skills you need to manage organisations and direct public sector change.

With core subjects delivered by the Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis (IGPA), the EMPA is specifically designed for students who have been nominated by the Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG) – a global leader in education and government-focused research relevant to the public sector. The course content draws on case studies and features practical interactive sessions, delivered by leading academics and guest speakers with extensive government experience. 

Study an Executive Master of Public Administration at UC and you will:

• understand the various kinds of operational capabilities available to public sector managers and know how they can be mobilised
• enhance your skills in people and knowledge management, contracting, partnering and inter-organisational collaboration in the public sector
• have an enhanced knowledge and understanding of the applicable elements of law, convention, practice and ethics
• have an applied appreciation of the role of legislation, regulations and conventions and their importance to good government
• acquire an understanding of leadership, public/private/community comparisons, the development of leadership capabilities and how to align organisational culture.

Work-integrated learning

You will undertake a specialised work-based research project as part of IGPA’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, which will enhance your employability and ensure you are armed with the right mix of skills and knowledge to take a confident leap into your future career in the public sector. You will be encouraged to apply your existing professional knowledge and undertake new research to identify and explore real-world problems and solutions, reflecting on practical experiences and using your own employment context, if applicable.

The EMPA offers opportunities to study abroad and encourages project-based interaction with fellow students across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. The course is taught by a mix of academics, public servants, former politicians and journalists, and guest speakers from industry are regularly invited to deliver sessions on key strategic issues.

Career opportunities

• Chief administration officer
• Public administration consultant
• General operations manager
• Labour relations manager
• Program analyst
• Program director
• Director of development

Course specific information

Applicants must meet normal University requirements for admission to a master's degree course or hold qualifications deemed to be equivalent by the University's Admissions Committee. You must also have at least five years’ relevant work experience and have been accepted as a candidate for the degree by ANZSOG.

Students must undertake subjects to a minimum of 9 credit points at the University of Canberra to be eligible to take out the award at the University.