Program Overview

Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy

Course Overview

The Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy is a unique program aimed at individuals working in or having previously worked in public policy practice. The program leads to the qualification "Doctor of Public Policy and Political Economy" and is ideal for those wishing to advance a career in public policy or academia.

Start and Duration

• September start
• Part-time, 4 years

Level and Qualification

• Research
• Professional Doctorate

Fees

• UK fees: £6,240 per year
• International fees: £6,240 per year

Campus

• Online

School

• School of Humanities and Social Sciences

About the Course

This program is designed for individuals working in public policy practice, including those in think tanks, charities, journalism, the civil service, or central banks. Teachers of economics and politics can also take the program. The format of teaching and research provides a structured yet flexible framework, making it ideal for combining doctoral studies with professional life.

Entry Requirements

• Good Honours (2.1 or above) BA or BSc degree in an appropriate discipline or a relevant Master's degree
• Two years' work experience in a relevant area (currently working) or ten years' previous relevant work experience (not currently working)

Teaching and Assessment

• Mainly delivered online, with a series of webinars in the first two terms
• Three study weekends in Buckingham in Year 1 and Year 2
• Four modules:
  • Module One: Weekly evening seminars on schools of economic thought
  • Module Two: Study weekend in May, including lectures and research proposal presentation
  • Module Three: Reflective analysis relating experience to models in political economy
  • Module Four: Research thesis of 55,000 to 65,000 words

Resources

• Use of the Vinson Centre's economic policy and history of economic thought library
• International students can take the program online, with attendance required at three study weekends

Teaching, Supervision, and Assessment

• Mixture of online provision and seminars at study weekends
• Each module assessed by shorter assignments before moving on to the thesis
• Appropriate supervisors appointed for Module Four

A Flexible Qualification – Entry and Exit Routes

• Can join from other University of Buckingham programs and gain exemptions from modules
• Exit routes include MA in Political Economy, MSc or PGCert in Central Banking

Course Fees

• UK fees: £6,240 per year
• International fees: £6,240 per year
• Total cost: £24,800

Scholarships and Bursaries

• Royal Charter 40th Anniversary Scholarship (research scholarship offering some or all fees paid by the University)
• Other scholarships and bursaries available for home and international students

How to Apply

• Apply directly using the online application form
• Contact the Admissions team for further discussion