Master of Arts - Public Policy and Management

Successfully managing public policy can be challenging, particularly in today’s fast-paced environment. The Public Policy and Management MA integrates policy with practical management skills. The programme prepares students to communicate and design public policy in a flexible and sustainable manner, addressing the global challenges and needs of the 21st century.

It introduces students transnationally to a broad range of policy sectors, allowing them to shape their studies by focusing on an area of public policy that interests them. The programme emphasises learning through real scenarios and case studies, enabling students to apply their knowledge to real policy problems and develop solutions. Some case studies are explored through partnerships with policy professionals and external organisations, ranging from the British Civil Service and Parliament to global bodies such as the United Nations and International Maritime Organisation, providing rich insights into the challenges of policymaking, evaluation and management.

The course is designed through ongoing consultations with professionals working in policy roles across a range of organisations to ensure graduates have the desired skills for careers in a variety of public sector bodies or in business. The programme takes a comparative approach, combining the key concepts, theories and approaches to analysing and evaluating governance and policy with core principles of management such as procurement and project management.

The course is ideal for those looking to advance or start their careers in policymaking and management. Students are prepared to thrive in careers in a range of areas of professional work, including the advocacy, development, leadership, management, communication and delivery of public policy, goods and services. The programme prepares graduates not only for careers in the civil service but also for roles across the public, private and non-governmental sectors.