Handbook : Course informationEdith Cowan University

Course Information

Master of Leading Social Change

Effective from 01-JAN-2026 : Code O20

The Master of Leading Social Change is designed for people who are driven to make a real difference in the world. This course equips students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills required to lead lasting social change initiatives. Students will explore the complex dynamics of social movements and localised community campaigns through practical, industry-engaged learning. This course will develop student’s ability to lead with integrity, understanding the interplay between grassroots social change efforts and broader political, economic, and cultural power structures. Students will learn to engage critically with the concepts of identity, intersectional disadvantage, and community capacity to lead and facilitate change through local initiatives and large-scale social movements.

Disclaimer

This course information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester. In particular please check the course requirements and the unit and unit set offerings, as these differ according to course delivery location.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Critically analyse complex social, political, and economic systems, and evaluate diverse social change theories and strategies, demonstrating and advanced understanding of power dynamics, intersectional disadvantage, and ethical considerations in leading social change.
2. Design and implement strategic interventions to address complex social challenges, developing practical solutions for organisational change, community partnership building, and policy advocacy, in the context of effectively managing risks and adapting to dynamic environments and evolving technologies.
3. Collaborate and communicate with diverse stakeholders, including community members, policymakers, and organisational partners, utilising co-design principles and participatory methodologies to foster inclusive and sustainable social change initiatives.
4. Demonstrate self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience in the context of executing a substantial project and ensuring sustainable personal and professional growth as social change leaders.
5. Critically engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, leadership practices, and community strengths to inform culturally responsive approaches to social change that respect Indigenous sovereignty and promote self-determination to foster ethical allyship across culturally diverse settings.

Admission requirements

Admission requirement (Band 6)

• Bachelor degree; or
• Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

English Language requirement (Band 4)

English competency requirements may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

• IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0);
• Bachelor degree from a country specified in the Admissions Policy;
• Successfully completed 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent);
• Where accepted, equivalent prior learning, including at least five years relevant professional experience; or
• Other tests, courses or programs as defined in the Admissions Policy.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level

This course has been accredited by ECU as an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Coursework) Award.

Course Duration

• Full Time: 1.5 Years
• Part Time: 3 Years

Course Delivery

• Online: Part Time, Full Time

Course Coordinator

Dr John SUTCLIFFE

Course Structure