Professional Practice in Policy

This subject is not offered in 2014.

Total of 120 hours

Public Policy at Undergraduate level

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

This subject will examine contemporary issues and debates in public policy making in a variety of contexts (Victorian, Australian, and international) through insights provided by professional public policy practitioners. Students will be offered a unique opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of the public policy process as experienced by professionals, and will participate in the examination and analysis of contemporary case studies of public policy in action.

On completion of this subject students should:

• gain familiarity with contemporary issues and debates in public policy making;
• gain an understanding of policy making processes and institutions;
• be able to demonstrate competence in independent research and analysis;
• gain professional skills in policy analysis and design;
• be able to apply theory to professional practice;
• be able to apply theories and methods to the analysis of public policy case studies.

A 5000 word research essay (100%) due in the 2nd semester examination period.

Hurdle Requirement: As this is an Intensively-taught subject, Lecture/Seminar attendance is compulsory on all 4 days. Regular participation in class is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available online

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should:

• be able to analyse and think critically in relation to public policy;
• be able to demonstrate a capacity to undertake independent research;
• be able to demonstrate written communication skills.