Master of Public Policy

Summary

Develop and improve your capabilities in policy advising and analysis and get the skills you need to drive government decision-making.

Fast-track your career in policy

Gain the expertise that policymakers need to create strategic and operational policies that make life better—locally, nationally, and internationally.

The Master of Public Policy equips you with the knowledge, skills, and competencies you need to provide high-quality policy advice underpinned by a strong sense of public purpose and integrity. You'll acquire a nuanced understanding of policy design, analysis, and implementation in the real world.

Our association with key players in government means you will learn from policymakers and advisers involved in strategic and operational decision-making.

Experience our Master of Public Policy

Professor Arthur Grimes is one of the academics teaching the Master of Public Policy. Join him as he poses a series of questions about the role of governments in ensuring sustainability and prosperity—a topic that you’ll cover as part of the programme.

Download the latest prospectus

Find out more about your study options. Fill in a form to download our professional and postgraduate programme prospectus.

Get the prospectus

Promote better government

Learn to help decision-makers get the best outcomes in environmental, economic, and social areas. Find out about the inner workings of government and get the skills to design, evaluate, and implement strategic and operational policies that improve our lives.

Diploma and Certificate programmes

Depending on your goals you can opt for a shorter postgraduate public policy qualification by doing the Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy. Courses completed as part of the Certificate and Diploma can count towards the full MPP programme if you decide to continue your studies.

Well connected

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is the only New Zealand university that is connected to the Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG)—so you know your qualification is of the highest standard.

Our lecturers are actively involved in the public sector, exchanging ideas on key policy and management issues. They're connected to decision makers from local, regional and national government, giving you the opportunity to meet and learn from those in the know.

We're also associated with important public and volunteer sector organisations like Taituarā—Local Government Professionals Aotearoa, Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), the NZ Council of Social Services (NZCOSS), and Hui E! Community Aotearoa.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme. Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Direct graduate entry

Each year, a small number of students are admitted to the Master of Public Management or Master of Public Policy directly from undergraduate studies.

You need a Bachelor’s degree from a New Zealand university with a GPA average of A- or higher. You’ll also need to show your interest and commitment to public service in an expression of interest (EOI).

If you’re interested, you can apply directly through the regular online application process. If you have a question, email ppo@vuw.ac.nz.

International students, global insights

Be part of a school that attracts not only local professionals but a talented group of international students—many highly experienced employees of government organisations in their own countries. Take advantage of the diverse experience in public policy and public management these students bring to the classroom—providing valuable insights and bringing the comparative perspective alive.

Community

Postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, university staff, and future colleagues.

There will be opportunities to attend events, workshops, social functions, and seminars such as the Student Learning Postgraduate Research skills sessions. You’ll also have access to the postgraduate student workspace on the 2nd floor of Rutherford House. Make use of the spacious computer lab, meeting rooms, printer, and kitchen. The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides information and a voice for you on campus.

At the heart of public policy

Live and study in New Zealand’s creative, compact, and vibrant capital. Wellington is at the heart of politics and the home of most government departments. It’s the centre of some of the country’s most exciting new developments in local and regional government.

Careers

Skilled policy...