Explore advanced topics in public policy
Develop the skills to deliver high-quality, purposeful advice and gain a clear understanding of how policy is designed, analysed, and implemented.
In the 120-point PGDipPP, you can explore advanced topics in policy analysis, economics, the role of government, and quantitative analysis.
The PGDipPP provides a pathway to the Master of Public Policy, if you want to take your study further.
Who can study for this qualification
The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy is designed for public sector professionals who want to improve the quality of strategic and operational policy in government.
To get into the PGDipPP, you generally need a Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of experience working in the public sector. But we also welcome applications from recent graduates with high grades and from experienced professionals who don’t have a degree.
What you’ll learn
Your courses cover advanced topics in policy analysis, economics, and managing public resources. You’ll gain insight into the role of government, and develop the skills to design, evaluate, and implement strategic and operational policies.
You’ll learn how to help decision-makers get the best outcomes in environmental, economic, and social areas.
How you’ll study
While some parts of the programme may be available online, the PGDipPP is primarily designed around in-person participation. Most of the courses are taught in three to five blocks per trimester.
You’ll complete six to eight courses worth 120 points. While you can start the PGDipPP in any trimester, we recommend starting in Trimester 1 if you want to complete it within one year.
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
Get in touch and a copy of our prospectus, or get in touch directly with our Recruitment Manager, Jade Chiam.
Email: jade.chiam@vuw.ac.nz
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the PGDipPP shall have:
(i) completed a New Zealand Bachelor’s degree or another degree approved by the Associate Dean (Students) of the Wellington School of Business and Government;
(ii) had two years of relevant work experience (this requirement may be waived by the Head of the School of Government in special cases); and
(iii) been accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
Qualification requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the PGDipPP
2. The course of study for the PGDipPP shall consist of courses worth 60 points from Part 1 of the MPP and 60 further points from Parts 1 or 2 of the MPP.
3. (a) A candidate for the PGDipPP shall normally complete the diploma within three years of first enrolling in the certificate or diploma.
(b) The head of school may extend the maximum period in special cases.
4. A candidate who has been awarded the PGCertPP shall abandon that qualification upon being awarded the PGDipPP.
Future careers
Skilled policy-makers are in demand—both in government and elsewhere—due to their technical and creative skills and commitment to solving society’s challenges.
You might take on a role in policy development or implementation in:
- central, local, or regional government
- a Crown entity or a not-for-profit organisation
- a private consultancy or corporation that provides policy advice to agencies.
More career information
Find out more about careers in public policy.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Public Policy
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Applicants must be enrolled, or intending to enrol full time, in a Master’s or PhD degree in areas related to identity management and are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.
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The scholarship will be awarded to a student who is undertaking research at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington on the interactions and relationship between the public and private sectors in the area of policy and management.
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
Scholarships for international students
We're 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.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Public Policy
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The scholarship will be awarded to a student who is undertaking research at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington on the interactions and relationship between the public and private sectors in the area of policy and management.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Why Wellington
Wellington is at the heart of public policy making. Government ministers and public service leaders regularly come to our campus to speak and discuss key topics with students.
Our academic staff have strong research relationships with the Treasury New Zealand and other departments in central and local government.
And we are the only New Zealand university connected to the Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG). This connection ensures your qualification is recognised for quality and relevance across the public sector.
Further research or study
The Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master of Public Policy form a tiered pathway. Courses you complete in the Certificate or Diploma can count towards the Master’s, so you can build your qualification over time.
The Master of Public Policy (180 points) is the most comprehensive qualification. It builds advanced expertise and strong analytical skills for career progression and leadership in the policy field.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.