Educational policy & leadership

Become a critical contributor & leader in education 

Educational policy and leadership at UNSW is the postgraduate study of choice for professional educators who want to gain a sharper understanding of modern educational leadership. Guided by leading academics in educational research, you’ll explore educational politics, policy, organisations and leadership from a broad, critical perspective.  

Study with a global leader in educational research 

Supported by a top rating of 5 by the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA), UNSW School of Education academics undertake an evidence-based and interdisciplinary approach to educational policy and leadership.  

As an emerging research strength, you'll enrich debates about current and historical initiative in education policy and leadership in Australia and beyond. While also undertaking cutting-edge research on various levels of education across formal sites like schools and universities and other educational arenas like community groups.  

We focus on essential research areas including how education policy converges and overlaps with other policy areas, how education policy relates to equity and inclusion, and critical perspectives in educational leadership and organisations. 

Flexible & affordable 

We offer alternative delivery options, including online courses, intensive school holiday courses, workplace and evening classes to ensure your educational policy and leadership study fits into your schedule. We also provide affordable study options with Commonwealth Supported Places and the opportunity to pay or defer fees through FEE-HELP for eligible students.    

Take your career higher 

Our specialist postgraduate programs in educational policy and leadership can enhance your career options and professional advancement within a broad range of higher education institutions. 

Many of our graduates progress into specialist fields of education by developing and extending their understanding of a critical area of education. 

Our higher education postgraduate programs can also be a gateway to higher research study. If you’re interested in pursuing a research career, we encourage you to study research methodology and undertake a research project during your course.