Program Overview

MSc Public Policy

Overview

The MSc Public Policy programme engages with contemporary policy concerns and the increasing complexity of the policy environment. It explores the contested dynamics of policymaking and policy implementation and provides students with the skills to understand, critically evaluate and develop policy alternatives in a local, national and international context. The programme seeks to prepare the next generation of policymakers to address a range of policy issues and understand the role and impact of different stakeholders, including business and the voluntary sector as well as international and regional organisations.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises six units plus a dissertation or a policy analysis capstone project. Four of these units are mandatory and the other units are chosen from a number of options.

Key Information

• Programme duration: One year full-time; Two years part-time.
• Start date: September 2025
• Application deadline: Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025; Home applicants: 8 August 2025
• Delivery method: On-Campus
• Location: Clifton
• Awards available: MSc

Entry Requirements

• Upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a Social Science discipline.
• Relevant work experience (minimum 18 months paid or unpaid) in mid- to high-level policy work for local or national government or third sector/voluntary/community-based organisation.
• Postgraduate qualification in any discipline.

Fees and Funding

• Home: full-time £17,700 per year; part-time (two years) £8,850 per year
• Overseas: full-time £31,800 per year
• Alumni discount: 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study
• Funding and scholarships: Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career Prospects

Graduates from our MSc in Public Policy frequently work in roles that focus on strategy, policy development and implementation, or policy research. Potential employers include local or central government departments; national or international non-governmental organisations; and international institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the United Nations.

World-leading Research

• The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education).
• 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.