University of Canberra
Graduate Certificate in Business (Government)
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
- Course Type: Graduate Certificate
Study where business, government and policy meet.
Course overview
- Gain a strong foundation in legal frameworks, policy processes and how government organisations operate.
- Develop the ability to evaluate information and provide informed recommendations in government contexts.
- Build clear and effective communication skills tailored to professional and government environments.
- Build connections with like‑minded professionals.
- Learn from leaders across business, government, policy and more.
- Study online with flexible, supported and accelerated learning.
UC’s online Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (Government) is designed for ambitious public sector professionals.
Grounded in Canberra’s unique position as the seat of government and a hub for professional services, policy and advocacy, this postgraduate degree is designed to prepare government leaders to navigate complex challenges in dynamic environments.
After graduation, individuals may be eligible to continue their studies with the Master of Business Administration (Government), which is designed to enhance the knowledge and leadership skills of public sector professionals.
Key facts
July, 2026
September, 2026
October, 2026
What you will study
The Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (Government) comprises four units.
- Contemporary Legal Frameworks
- Foundations of Public Policy
- Strategic Influence and Advocacy
- Public Sector Budgets and Procurement
Entry requirements
To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Business, applicants must have one of the following:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- A higher‑level qualification, in any discipline, from a recognised tertiary institution, and three years work experience.
- Three years of relevant work experience.
English language requirements
There are non-standard English requirements for this course. To be eligible, you must have an overall IELTS Academic score (or equivalent) of 6.5, with no band below 6.0.
Recognition of Prior Learning
RPL will not be offered for the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (Government).
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Solve complex organisational problems: Learn to analyse and apply discipline‑relevant theory, information and developments when solving issues in diverse and dynamic operational environments.
- Become an effective leader: Take the initiative to apply advanced leadership, business and professional skills to creatively manage diverse groups of people, processes and organisations.
- Leverage the latest innovations: Plan for and effectively communicate business innovations, new technologies, latest developments and organisational change in a range of contexts.
- Make informed critical decisions: Demonstrate high‑level judgement and problem‑solving skills in complex and uncertain environments, applying research and analytical methods alongside data and evidence‑based insights.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative cost per unit in 2026: $4,062.50 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Indicative total cost in 2026: $16,250 (domestic full-fee paying place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of four units per year.
Student annual fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.