MSc Public Policy and Management (Distance Learning)

Program Overview

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Our MSc Public Policy and Management programme provides you with the analytical tools needed to understand the principles and methods of modern public policy and management. The programme gives you the skills to make financial and policy decisions within the public sector.  Through the range of modules, you will gain theoretical knowledge on policy-making, policy implementation and the management of public sector entities. As well as this, you will have the opportunity to explore specific areas such as the management of human resources in the public sector, the public financial management process, the decentralisation of public functions and the collaboration between public and private entities.

Why study MSc Public Policy and Management at SOAS?

We are ranked 38th in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Complete University Guide 2023)

we are ranked 6th in UK for graduate employability (QS World University Rankings 2023)

develop skills in analysis, critical thinking and communication to improve your professional development and career prospects

gain an excellent understanding of key issues shaping international business strategy

we are specialists in the delivery of more than 40 African and Asian languages. As the economies of the Global South continue to expand, knowledge of another language and other cultures will be a big asset in the world of commerce and international trade

you will be joining our community of alumni working in 160 countries in sectors including finance, government, industry and international organisations

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How to apply

Please read our

online and distance learning how to apply

guidance, and use our

online form

to submit your application directly to us for consideration.

Program Outline

You will study

six modules

selected from the list below.

If you wish to complete the

Dissertation

you must study

Research Methods

.

Important notice

The information on the website reflects the intended programme structure against the given academic session. The modules are indicative options of the content students can expect and are/have been previously taught as part of these programmes. However, this information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.

Modules

Module	Credits
Decentralisation and Local Governance	30
Dissertation (M454)
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment	30
Financial Reporting	30
Human Resource Management and Development	30
Managing Organisational Change	30
Privatisation and Public Private Partnerships	30
Project Appraisal	30
Project, Programme and Policy Evaluation	30
Public Financial Management: Audit and Compliance	30
Public Financial Management: Planning and Performance	30
Public Financial Management: Revenue	30
Public Policy and Management: Development Assistance	30
Public Policy and Management: Perspectives and Issues	30
Public Policy and Strategy	30
Research Methods (M453)	30
The IMF and Economic Policy	30

The MSc Public Policy and Management is made up of six modules. Each module lasts for 10 weeks. You can only take one module at a time, but each module is typically available in at least two of the year's study sessions. This gives you the flexibility to plan your studies throughout the year, allowing you to fit your studies around your professional, family and personal commitments.

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Online academic tutor

You will be individually assigned an online academic tutor for the duration of each module with whom you can discuss academic queries at regular intervals during the study session. You will also have a named administrator providing you with help and advice throughout your studies.

For each module, you will be provided with access to all necessary materials from a range of appropriate sources.

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Virtual Learning Environment

To make your experience as a distance learning student more complete and rewarding, you will have access to the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which is a web-based learning environment. Via the VLE, you can communicate with your assigned academic tutor, administrators and other students on the module using discussion forums.

The VLE also provides you with access to the module's Study Guide and assignments, as well as a selection of electronic journals available on the University of London Online Library.

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Exams

For each module, you will sit a three-hour examination, held on a specified date in September/October, and complete two assignments during the module study session. Assignments are submitted and feedback given online. Examinations and assignments are weighted 70:30.

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Key dates and calendar

To find out when a particular module is running, please view the study calendar on each individual module page.

See our

online and distance learning key dates

As graduates of MSC Public Policy and Management, you will be well equipped for high positions in:

national and sub-national government sectors

international organisations

regional development and aid agencies

NGOs

Recent graduates have been hired by:

Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ

Citi

Deloitte

Ernst & Young

Euro Monitor International

Financial Times

HM Treasury

Huaxia Bank, China

International Rescue Committee

Investec

JP Morgan, Chase & Co

KPMG

Nomura

Oxfam

Publicis Media

Santander

UBS

University of Oxford

Western Securities Co. Ltd

White & Case LLP

World Food Programme

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