MSc Public Policy

Program Overview

The MSc in Public Policy at the University of Bristol equips students with the analytical and practical skills to navigate the complexities of policymaking in a globalized world. Exploring the impact of public policy on society, the program emphasizes international comparative analysis, preparing graduates for careers in policy planning, consultancy, and policy officer positions with local and international organizations.

Program Outline

The MSc in Public Policy program at the University of Bristol delves into the complexities of public policy in an increasingly globalized world. It examines the dynamics of policymaking and implementation, equipping students with the skills to analyze, evaluate, and develop policy alternatives in local, national, and international contexts. The program aims to prepare future policymakers to address a range of policy issues and understand the roles and impact of various stakeholders, including businesses, voluntary sectors, and international organizations.

Objectives:

• Understand the nature of public policy, its shaping influences, and the institutions involved.
• Analyze the impact of public policy on economic, social, and cultural environments.
• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate policy alternatives.
• Gain practical skills in policy development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Prepare for professional careers in policy planning, consultancy, and policy officer positions.

Outline:

Program Structure:

The program consists of three core units and a choice of optional units. Students must also complete a dissertation of 10,000 to 15,000 words.

Core Units:

• Public Policy: Concepts and Theories
• Policy Analysis and Evaluation
• Policy Implementation and Management

Optional Units:

• International Analysis of Poverty and Social Exclusion
• Public Management and Organizations
• Migration, Asylum, and Human Rights
• Economics of Public Policy
• Corruption and Public Policy

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Policy briefs
• Dissertation

Assessment Criteria:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Research and writing abilities
• Policy development and evaluation skills
• Communication and presentation skills

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest lectures
• Case studies

Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners from the School for Policy Studies.

Unique Approaches:

• Focus on international and comparative policy analysis
• Emphasis on practical policy skills

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Policy planning
• Policy consultancy
• Policy officer positions
• Local and national government
• International organizations
• Non-governmental organizations

Career Outcomes:

Graduates from the MSc in Public Policy program have gone on to work in various roles, including:

• Policy advisors
• Policy analysts
• Policy researchers
• Program managers
• Project managers

Other:

• The program is ranked 5th in the UK for research in the Times Higher Education rankings.
• 94% of the program's research is assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
• The program offers a 25% tuition fee discount for University of Bristol students and graduates.

UK:

• Full-time: £14,000 per year
• Part-time (two years): £7,000 per year

Overseas:

• Full-time: £28,600 per year
For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.