MSc Public Policy

Overview

The MSc Public Policy program at the University of Exeter is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public policy, its benefits, and its consequences. The program explores the policy process, including the development, formulation, implementation, and analysis/evaluation of policies. Students will learn qualitative and quantitative research methods, gaining the tools necessary to understand processes, analyze important policy issues, and assess policy outcomes.

Entry Requirements

• 2:2 Honours degree or above in a relevant subject area
• International students: English language requirements (Profile B2)

Course Content

• Compulsory modules:
  • Public Policy Process (30 credits)
  • Dissertation (60 credits)
• Optional modules (90 credits):
  • A range of modules from across the social sciences, including:
    • Contemporary History and Politics of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula
    • Food Systems, Alternative Food Networks and Ethical Consumption
    • Qualitative Methods in Social Research
    • Brexit: Causes, Interpretation and Implications
    • Digital Politics and Policy
    • Management and Governance: Comparing Public Administration around the World
    • The Politics, Policy and Practice of Sustainable Development
    • State and Society in the Middle East
    • Applied Quantitative Data Analysis
    • Science Technology and Society
    • Surveys and Experiments: Design, Implementation and Analysis
    • Security, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
    • Computational Social Science 1
    • Computational Social Science 2
    • Introduction to Social Network Analysis
    • Statistical Modelling
    • Machine learning for social data science
    • Data Visualisation
    • From Oppression to Resistance: Exploring the Intersections of Race, Class and Gender
    • Theories of International Development
    • Tools, Policy and Practice of International Development
    • Gender, War and Militarism
    • International Relations: Power and Institutions
    • Foreign Policy Decision-Making
    • Qualitative Methods in Social Research
    • Leadership, Equality and Diversity
    • Collaborative and Participatory Governance
    • Public Accountability and Governance
    • The Transformation of Politics in the Global Age
    • International Politics of the Body
    • Sources in Modernity and Post-Modernity
    • State Crime
    • The Politics of the Future
    • Food Systems, Alternative Food Networks and Ethical Consumption
    • Food and Sustainability: Economy, Society and Environment
    • Which Policies Work? Causal Methods for Policy Evaluation
    • Empire and Hierarchy in Russia and Eurasia

Fees

• UK fees per year: £12,500 full-time, £6,250 part-time
• International fees per year: £25,300 full-time, £12,650 part-time
• Scholarships available, including Exeter Excellence Scholarships

Teaching and Research

• Teaching is research-led, ensuring that what you learn will be cutting-edge and at the heart of contemporary public policy methods and debate.
• Teaching methods include academic seminars, presentations, simulations, class discussions, small group work, guided reading, and teacher-supported analysis and reflection.
• Assessments will extend beyond well-established essays to include the creation of policy briefings, preparation and delivery of policy plans, and reflective learning logs.

Careers

• The career paths for MSc Public Policy graduates are well-established with good employability prospects, including in the UK and internationally.
• Potential career paths include:
  • Civil servants in central government or local government professionals
  • Workers in think tanks, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and consultancies
  • Policy officers and researchers for Members of Parliament and Members of the European Parliament, the European Commission
  • Other public and private sector organisations in a range of sectors

Related Courses

• Social Data Science MSc
• Public Administration Masters (MPA)
• Security and Development MA

Why Exeter?

• The University of Exeter is ranked Top 150 in the world for Political Sciences (Global Ranking of Academic Subjects or Shanghai Rankings 2024)
• The University of Exeter is ranked Top 100 in the world for Politics (QS World University Subject Rankings 2025)
• The University of Exeter is ranked Top 75 in the world for Public Administration (Global Ranking of Academic Subjects or Shanghai Rankings 2024)
• The University of Exeter is ranked Top 15 in the UK for Politics (The Complete University Guide 2026; The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)

University of Exeter

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Overview:

The University of Exeter is a public research university located in Exeter, Devon, England. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of law, business, and environmental sciences.

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Services Offered:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Student website:

Provides access to information and resources for current students.

ELE (Exeter Learning Environment):

An online platform for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors.

Email web access:

Allows students to access their university email accounts.

Payment portal:

Enables students to make payments for tuition fees and other expenses.

MyExeter (student app):

A mobile app that provides access to various student services and information.

Library:

Offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and other resources.

SID (Student Information Database):

A system for managing student records and accessing personal information.

Timetable:

Allows students to view their class schedules.

Programme and module information:

Provides details about academic programs and courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Exeter offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect:

Active student societies:

A wide range of clubs and societies cater to various interests.

Sports facilities:

The university has excellent sports facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and sports fields.

Campus events:

Regular events and activities are organized throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.

Accommodation options:

The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, both on and off campus.

Wellbeing services:

The university offers a range of support services for student wellbeing, including counseling and mental health support.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Excellent academic reputation:

The University of Exeter is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK.

World-leading research:

The university is renowned for its research, particularly in areas such as environmental sciences, law, and business.

Vibrant student life:

The university offers a diverse and engaging student experience with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.

Beautiful campus setting:

The university's campuses are located in picturesque settings, with easy access to the city of Exeter and the surrounding countryside.

Strong career support:

The university provides excellent career support services to help students find employment after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

English, History, Classics, Philosophy, Music, Drama, and more.

Social Sciences:

Law, Politics, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and more.

Medicine and Health:

Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and more.

Business and Management:

Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, and more.

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Other:

• The university has three main campuses: Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus, and Penryn Campus.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental issues.

• The university has a strong international reputation and attracts students from all over the world.

• Academic Programs:

  While the context mentions some general disciplines, it does not provide a detailed outline of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution.