University of Canberra
Graduate Certificate in Policy Evaluation Online
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
- Course Type: Graduate Certificate
Build specialist skills in policy evaluation through data analytics, policy analysis, economic modelling and evidence-based communication, with a focus on complex contemporary public policy challenges.
Course overview
The University of Canberra’s Graduate Certificate in Policy Evaluation develops specialist skills for analysing and evaluating public policy. Designed for professionals working across government, not-for-profit organisations and other community-focused sectors, the course examines how evidence can inform policy development and decision-making.
Explore evidence-based policy analysis, data analytics, policy evaluation and economic modelling. You’ll develop skills in collecting, evaluating and analysing evidence, applying analytical and modelling tools to complex policy issues and understanding the institutional and organisational contexts that shape policymaking.
The 12-credit-point course comprises four required units covering evidence-based policy analysis, data analytics and public policy, policy analysis and evaluation and communicating policy expertise. You’ll also develop research, critical thinking and communication skills to formulate policy recommendations and present findings to different audiences.
Delivered 100% online, the course is completed part-time over eight months across four Study Blocks. The online structure focuses on one unit at a time, allowing you to build your policy evaluation capabilities progressively while examining contemporary issues relevant to government and non-government organisations.
Key facts
15th March, 2027
10th May, 2027
5th July, 2027
30th August, 2027
25th October, 2027
What you will study
The Graduate Certificate in Policy Evaluation Online comprises four units. Each unit is seven weeks long. The University of Canberra advises a minimum of 15 to 20 hours of online study per week.
Core units
- Evidence-Based Policy Analysis
- Data Analytics and Public Policy
- Policy Analysis and Evaluation
- Communicating Policy Expertise
Entry requirements
To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Policy Evaluation, applicants must have at least one of the following:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Three years of relevant work experience.
English language requirements
An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).
Contact the university or visit its website for more information.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Develop effective communication skills to disseminate policy positions, policy recommendations, policy research and analysis to a range of relevant audiences.
- Analyse and communicate approaches to complex problems including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander challenges while engaging in politically aware evidence-based policy design.
- Analyse the complex issues surrounding the formation, implementation and evaluation of public policy and the institutional and organisational contexts which shape the policy making process.
- Judiciously apply data analytical and key modelling tools and techniques to inform the policy making process.
Career outcomes
The Graduate Certificate in Policy Evaluation is designed for professionals working and aiming to work in the government, non-government, health, intelligence or social sectors.
Your career options may include roles such as:
- Senior community inclusion officer
- Policy and planning manager
- Communications and advocacy lead
- Policy and research manager
Fees and FEE-HELP
Average full-course fee in 2027: From $9,012 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The average full-course fee is calculated based on a study load of 12 credit points (four units).
2027 Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) fees:
- Fee per unit: $2,253
- Full-course fee: $9,012
Indicative cost per unit in 2027: $3,737 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Indicative total cost in 2027: $14,950 (domestic full-fee paying place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a part-time study load of four units per year.
Student 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.
Who You Will Learn From
Mary Walsh
Professor of Politics and Associate Dean
Mary Walsh is a Professor of Politics and Associate Dean at the University of Canberra, bringing 30+ years of teaching and research expertise. She has led key programs like the Bachelor of Politics and International Relations and the Master of Public Policy, earning national and international recognition for her contributions.