MA Political Science - Governance and Public Policy Pathway (Research Route) / Course details

Policy is complicated. Policy makers need to understand a web of normative, practical, domestic and international considerations. On our Political Science – Governance and Public Policy master’s programme, you’ll learn about key themes and concepts related to social policy formation, including:

• citizenship and participation
• policy making in a globalised world
• the relationship between the government and the governed
• the welfare state.

Via mandatory course units, you’ll be introduced to a range of research approaches, while developing your qualitative and quantitative skills.

You’ll also be able to tailor the programme to fit your interests, with optional course units covering an array of current and interesting topics.

Throughout the programme you’ll develop skills in critical inquiry, research design, creative thinking and problem-solving. At the point of completion, you’ll be well placed to undertake doctoral research or pursue a career in a great number of similar fields.

Part-time students complete the full-time course over two years. There are no evening or weekend course units available on the part-time route.  

You must first check the schedule of the compulsory units and then select your optional units to suit your requirements.  

Updated timetable information will be available from mid-August and you will have the opportunity to discuss your unit choices during induction week with your course director.

You will be supported by first-class resources, in addition to the networked study areas.

You will also have access to the one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country.