Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Course

This course is designed for managers across all levels of the public sector, in Australia and internationally, who wish to improve service delivery and policy outcomes. Participants may work in the public, not-for-profit or private sector agencies involved in policy and service delivery at intergovernmental, national, regional or local government levels. The course aims to develop managers' practical knowledge and skills to deal with management and policy analysis issues across the spectrum of public sector activities.

The Master of Public Policy and Management aims to produce graduates who will:

(a.) be critical and creative scholars who:

• produce innovative solutions to problems
• apply research skills to business challenges
• communicate effectively and perceptively

(b.) be responsible and effective global citizens who:

• engage in an internationalised world
• exhibit cross cultural competence
• demonstrate ethical values

(c.) have a comprehensive understanding of their discipline and be able to provide discipline based solutions relevant to the business, professional and public policy communities we serve

(d.) have advanced knowledge to masters level in public sector management, policy development and governance.

An optional research pathway is available.

The course structure has two main components:

• a set of core units in public policy and management
• six open electives.

(a.) Students must complete six core units (36 points) as follows:

• MGX5300 Governance
• MGX5360 Strategic management in the public sector
• MGX5370 Policy analysis
• MGX5440 Public sector financial management
• MGX9230 Public policy
• MGX9270 Public management

(b.) students must complete a further six graduate-level units (36 points) subject to the following conditions:

• a maximum of two elective units (12 points) may be taken from other faculties
• students interested in pursuing PhD studies can choose the three-unit research report elective option.

Research report elective option

The research report option may provide an alternative pathway for students from a coursework masters programs into a PhD program. The research report elective option consists of a three unit combination totalling 24 points, and comprises the following units:

• MGX5000 Introductory management research methods (6 points)
• MGX5901 Research report (introduction) (6 points)
• MGX5900 Research report (12 points)

Students intending to enrol in the research report require permission. Students must have completed a minimum of 24 points of coursework study, including MGX5000 and achieved a minimum average of 70 per cent, to progress to the research report. Students should discuss this option with their course director prior to enrolling.

It is recommended that students consult with the course coordinator to ensure their elective units form a coherent study program.

This degree may serve as a pathway to a higher degree by research. Students considering a research degree are advised to consult a course coordinator prior to making an application.

Students wishing to exit the Master of Public Policy and Management may apply to graduate with one of the following, provided they have satisfied the requirements for that award:

• Graduate Certificate in Business after successful completion of 24 points of study
• Graduate Diploma in Business after successful completion of 48 points of study.

Master of Public Policy and Management