The Master of Social Policy is a 200 point (2 years full-time) program, however if you have completed previous study or work experience in this discipline, you may be eligible for entry to the 100 point program (1 year full-time option).
To be considered for entry into the 100 point program, you must:
Cognate (relevant) disciplines include: Sociology, Politics and International Studies, Policy Studies, Criminology, Anthropology and Gender Studies.
Work experience relevant to this course may include roles such as Policy Manager, Policy Officer, Policy Design and Implementation.
Please note this is not a complete list of possible disciplines and work experience. Relevance is always assessed on a case-by-case basis.
If you are seeking credit for relevant work experience, you must provide a brief curriculum vitae (CV) detailing your professional experience and the contact details of two referees who can confirm the authenticity and nature of the experience. Also include a cover letter that explains how the experience is relevant to the course and how it prepares you for study in this discipline.
The University of Melbourne is committed to maintaining a transparent admissions policy by clearly communicating all entry scores to prospective students. Entry requirements to the University of Melbourne are regularly reviewed to ensure they align with the University's Selection and Admissions Policy . The entry requirements published for this course will apply from the mid-year 2026 intake onwards.
Make a change in the world. Social policy makers weave the fabric of our society. And with the Master of Social Policy program, you can examine key developments in social policy through a global lens, with a strong emphasis on social justice and the ability to influence policy.
As a social policy maker, you can meld the needs of citizens with the roles of government and not‐for‐profit service agencies in contentious fields like employment, income support, education, health and climate change.
The Master of Social Policy enables you to understand the respective roles of government, private and not‐for‐profit sectors in meeting the needs of citizens. Understand and critique the key developments in social policy through a global lens, aiming to find ethically sustainable solutions, while considering the competing factors of social policy and the economy.