The Master of Governance (Advanced) is a distinctive interdisciplinary degree designed for high performing students seeking to pursue a research-focused career in governance.
The program equips students with world-class research training in the theory and practice of regulation and governance, preparing them to investigate complex societal challenges in an increasingly uncertain world. The program includes a compulsory 24-unit research thesis, allowing students to undertake an original research project under expert supervision.
Students join a vibrant intellectual community at the School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet), gaining access to global networks, mentoring from world-renowned academics and opportunities to contribute to innovative research that shapes governance in practice.
The program includes progression to doctoral studies in the field. Core courses provide a strong foundation in the concepts, institutions and processes of governance, while specialist classes and research training support the development of advanced analytical and methodological skills. Through engagement with interdisciplinary perspectives and real-world case studies, students critically examine governance across domains such as climate, health, global development, justice and technology.
Download the Master of Governance (Advanced) flyer.
The program is specifically designed to prepare students for future Higher Degree Research study. Students may progress to a PhD and pursue a career in governance research. Graduates from this program will be working in - or will join government or private sector organisations charged with designing and applying regulatory policy solutions to pressing social problems, often in partnership with diverse stakeholders.
Relevant employers include (but are not limited to):
Skills and expertise
For the last 20 years, RegNet’s interdisciplinary scholars have focused on improving the regulation and governance of major social, justice, environmental, economic and health issues. The VMGOV draws on deep empirical scholarship and policy experience whilst offering students a comprehensive and holistic view of contemporary social problems.
Unparalleled academic expertise
RegNet is home to world renowned researchers and regulatory practitioners who have produced many of the ground breaking and data-informed ideas that drive much of the contemporary regulatory governance in Australia, Asia, the Pacific and globally.
Asia and the Pacific Focus
RegNet has a strong focus on Asia and the Pacific – the region which increasingly shapes the strategic, political and economic direction of our world. The VMGOV has elective courses and case studies from Asia and the Pacific, taught by experts who share their deep understanding of practical challenges in regulation and governance within the region.
Innovation through Interdisciplinary Engagement
This Master’s program will expose students to emerging fields of regulation and governance, including the intersection of technology and regulation; the challenge of regulating global business; Indigenous governance; environmental governance; the regulatory rise of Asia; and geo-economics.
Strong interdisciplinary network
As a student of the VMGOV, you will benefit from having a close collegial relationship with a community of leading interdisciplinary scholars and access to a longstanding global network of alumni, practitioners and researchers with rich and diverse experience.
Contemporary courses
Core courses develop the cognitive and technical skills needed to critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts, and theories. Students undertake specialist research training and master classes with embedded research activities and assessments. These experiences strengthen advanced research skills, support the application of established theories to real-world contexts and build the ability to communicate knowledge, skills and ideas to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Skills enhancement
Students will gain a deep understanding of key concepts, theoretical debates and practical challenges in regulation and governance in Australia, Asia and the Pacific, and globally. Through the program they will understand the political and social processes of evaluating risk and designing regulatory responses to everyday safety, complex scenarios or catastrophic events.
This program comprises 72 units: 48 units of foundational and 24 units of completion of a research thesis.
Designed to prepare students for future Higher Degree Research study, the 72-unit program includes a compulsory 24-unit research thesis, enabling students to undertake an original research project under expert supervision.
The Australian National University (ANU) offers a wide range of scholarships to students to Assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
Whether you are looking for financial support to start your studies at ANU or help to move away from home for the first time, we have scholarship opportunities for you and your situation.
If you have further questions about these programs please contact:
Program Convener: Associate Professor Jarrett Blaustein, jarrett.blaustein@anu.edu.au
Program Coordinator: regnet.education@anu.edu.au
At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry. Find out more about admission requirements for the Master of Governance (Advanced) here.
