Introduction:

Following recent global events, politics—as we know it—is in crisis. Alongside the gradual decline in ‘formal’ political engagement, there has arisen a deep suspicion of the twentieth-century promise of globalisation, and in this so-called ‘post-truth’ context many of the values and institutions of the liberal democratic order have been brought into question. This includes debates concerning the role of the citizen and reconsideration of various public policies.

This combined MSc Politics and Public Policy course offers you the opportunity to undertake an active and current study of Politics and Public Policy at an advanced level.

The combined course provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary for exploring the link between politics and policymaking today, particularly with respect to the role of various formal and informal actors, processes and institutions which shape democracy and policies affecting daily life.

Careers and employability

As MSc Politics and Public Policy graduates, you will have the opportunity to reflect on the subject and transferable skills learnt while preparing coursework. These include expertise in writing complex, yet concise, analytical pieces, developing and implementing projects, interpersonal communication, diplomatic and negotiation skills, problem-solving, and the ability to present in-depth ideas with confidence. You will be offered encouragement and assistance in articulating those skills in relation to occupations that may be of interest to you.

Graduates from this course are ready to undertake a wide range of careers and professions. Previous graduates from within the Department of Politics and International Relations have gone on to work in relevant government departments as well as joined international aid and development agencies.

What you’ll study

The MSc Politics and Public Policy has been designed to provide a challenging contemporary curriculum which reflects the link between politics and policymaking. It also provides you with a powerful sense of the development of thought in the subjects and also enables you to obtain an advanced understanding and practice of a range of methods and methodologies available to support research.

The course joins existing provisions and is a collaboration between the MA Politics and MSc Public Policy offered within the Department of Politics and International Relations, enabling students to access a wide range of specialised knowledge.

The course may serve as an appropriate pathway to doctoral studies for those who may wish to advance in academia. It will provide you with the opportunity to take part in exciting contemporary discussions of politics and public policy, not only focusing on core theoretical concepts but also on key trends and developments. It is designed to promote deep knowledge, understanding and experience of both domestic and international political institutions, processes, and actors—including the public—and how they influence the policy process and its outcomes.

• Theory and Trends in Public Policy
• Citizens, Values and Political Participation
• Researching Political Issues
• Dissertation or Work-based Experience