Australian National University Crawford School
The Crawford School of Public Policy at the Australian National University is one of the world's leading graduate schools for public policy education, renowned for its focus on the Asia-Pacific region. Named after Sir John Crawford, the distinguished Australian economist and public servant, the school embodies his vision of policy research that serves the public good. Located in Canberra, Australia's capital, the Crawford School enjoys unparalleled access to policymakers, government departments, and international organizations that shape regional and global affairs. The school produces influential research that directly informs policy decisions on issues including economic development, environmental management, international trade, and regional security. Students benefit from a faculty of leading policy scholars and practitioners who bring real-world experience to their teaching. The diverse student body includes mid-career professionals, government officials, and emerging leaders from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. Crawford graduates hold leadership positions in governments, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector throughout the region. The school's commitment to evidence-based policy analysis and practical problem-solving distinguishes its approach to graduate education.
- Acceptance Rate
- 32.0%
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- Avg GPA
- 3.75
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Student Life & Environment
Life at Crawford School unfolds within the broader context of ANU and Canberra. The student body is notably international, drawing people from across Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and beyond who bring diverse perspectives to classroom discussions. This diversity creates rich learning opportunities but also requires cultural sensitivity and openness. Many students arrive with professional experience in government or development organizations, raising the level of discourse and providing networking opportunities. Social activities often center on school events, from seminar receptions to informal gatherings organized by student groups. The ANU campus offers additional community through sports clubs, cultural organizations, and university-wide events. Canberra itself is smaller and quieter than Sydney or Melbourne, which some students appreciate and others find limiting. The pace of life allows for focus on studies without the distractions of a major metropolis. Housing is available both on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods, with costs moderate compared to Australia's larger cities. The school maintains a collegial atmosphere, with faculty and students often interacting informally at events and in common spaces.
Location & Surroundings
Canberra offers a unique setting for policy education, given its role as Australia's purpose-built capital. The city was designed for government, and that function permeates daily life. Parliament House, government agencies, and diplomatic missions are all nearby, providing students with access to policymakers and practitioners that would be harder to achieve elsewhere. The national cultural institutions are exceptional, including the National Gallery, National Library, and Australian War Memorial. The surrounding Australian Capital Territory features beautiful bushland and nature reserves, offering escape from urban intensity. Lake Burley Griffin provides a focal point for the city, with walking and cycling paths that locals use heavily. The climate features distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters by Australian standards. The city is safe, clean, and well-organized, though critics find it lacking the energy and spontaneity of Sydney or Melbourne. Weekend trips to the coast or the Snowy Mountains are popular, as are visits to nearby wine regions. For students focused on their studies and careers, Canberra's relative quiet can be an advantage, allowing concentration without constant distraction.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Studying at Crawford represents a significant financial commitment, particularly for international students paying full tuition. Australian citizens and permanent residents benefit from subsidized tuition and access to income-contingent loan schemes that defer payment until after graduation. International students should budget for tuition plus living expenses in Canberra, which are moderate by Australian standards but still substantial. Scholarships from the Australian government, ANU, and external organizations can offset costs significantly for qualified applicants. The career payoff typically justifies the investment for those pursuing policy careers. Graduates work across Australian federal and state governments, international organizations like the World Bank and UN agencies, development NGOs, and consulting firms. The Crawford network is particularly strong in the Asia-Pacific region, where alumni hold influential positions in governments and organizations throughout the area. Career services provides support with job searches, and the school's location facilitates internships with Canberra-based organizations. Many students secure positions before graduation, leveraging connections built during their studies. For those committed to policy careers in or focused on the Asia-Pacific, the return on investment compares favorably with other leading policy schools.
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