This program is a 21-month degree that combines a comprehensive public policy and management curriculum with an industry based System Synthesis Project. The program is designed to educate innovative, ethical leaders who create and implement policy, manage organisations effectively, transform organisations, and develop new solutions to important social issues.

You will gain strong problem solving skills–both quantitative and qualitative–that will allow you to develop effective policies and you'll have opportunities to gain experience in leadership and real-world applications of your public affairs management coursework.

Studying across Carnegie Mellon’s Adelaide and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, campuses, you will gain an international perspective by learning in the United States and Australia with a strong focus on the Asia Pacific region. You will spend your 1st and 2nd study periods in Adelaide and 4th and 5th in Pittsburgh. You are also required to take 400 hours of internship in either Australia or internationally in your 3rd study period.

You are encouraged to customise your program by selecting a specialisation designed to advance your career. The 10 specialisations include cyber security and management, energy systems and public policy, environmental policy, financial management and analysis, health policy, international trade and development, management, policy analysis, social innovation and entrepreneurship and urban and regional economic development.