Introduction to the Politics and Public Policy (MA) Program

The Politics and Public Policy (MA) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of policy analysis and governance within a multi-level context, from local to international settings. This program equips students with the analytical and conceptual skills necessary to critically evaluate politics and public policy at multiple levels of government.

Why Study this Course

By studying this course, students will gain advanced analytical and conceptual skills, enabling them to critically evaluate politics and public policy in various institutions across the UK and internationally. The program offers a unique opportunity to develop advanced research skills and undertake in-depth research in a relevant area of choice. Students will also acquire transferable skills, including speaking, writing, team presentations, and policy briefings, through various assignments.

Course Structure

The program takes a 3-stage approach, with the first two stages comprising the taught part of the program. During these stages, students will study a maximum of 120 taught credits, including six 20-credit modules, all of which are offered at level 7. Students must study 60 credits each academic year via a combination of core and optional modules.

Year One

In the first year, students will study three 20-credit taught modules across two semesters, with at least one core module. The remaining credits will be selected from a designated range of core or optional modules.

Core Modules for Year One

• Public Policy (PLT132, 20 credits)

Optional Modules for Year One

• European Law and Governance: Looking in from the outside (CLT670, 20 credits)
• Government and Policy-Making in Britain (PLT133, 20 credits)
• Ministers at Work (PLT136, 20 credits)
• Ethics of Public Policy (PLT140, 20 credits)
• Global Environmental Politics (PLT264, 20 credits)
• Contemporary Welsh Politics 1: Institutions and their underpinnings (PLT334, 20 credits)
• Contemporary Welsh Politics 2: Political Behaviour and Current Issues (PLT336, 20 credits)
• Devolution and Public Policy in Wales (PLT337, 20 credits)

Year Two

In the second year, students will further develop their knowledge of public policy, government, and policymaking. They will study any remaining core modules alongside their choice of optional modules. Upon successful completion of 120 credits of taught modules, students will progress to the 60-credit dissertation.

Core Modules for Year Two

• Dissertation Part Time (PLT081, 60 credits)
• Themes and Debates in Political Research (PLT134, 20 credits)

Optional Modules for Year Two

• European Law and Governance: Looking in from the outside (CLT670, 20 credits)
• Government and Policy-Making in Britain (PLT133, 20 credits)
• Ministers at Work (PLT136, 20 credits)
• Ethics of Public Policy (PLT140, 20 credits)
• Global Environmental Politics (PLT264, 20 credits)
• Contemporary Welsh Politics 1: Institutions and their underpinnings (PLT334, 20 credits)
• Contemporary Welsh Politics 2: Political Behaviour and Current Issues (PLT336, 20 credits)
• Devolution and Public Policy in Wales (PLT337, 20 credits)

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer for this program, students must meet all the entry requirements. Applications will not be progressed if the required information and evidence are not provided.

Required Documents

1. A copy of the degree certificate and transcripts showing a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area.
2. A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 and 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.

Application Deadline

Applications normally close at the end of August but may close sooner if all places are filled.

Learning and Assessment

The program will be taught through seminars or a combination of lectures and seminars. Other teaching methods include the online use of discussion boards, self-access study packs, and formative quizzes and activities.

Assessment

Assessment will be made up of formative and summative assessments, including essay assignments, oral presentations, policy briefs/analysis, team presentations, and more.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's fee status.

Fees for Home Status

• Year one: ｣5,600
• Year two: ｣5,600

Fees for Overseas Status

• Year one: ｣12,350 (with a ｣2,500 deposit)
• Year two: ｣12,350

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. This includes Master's Scholarships, an Alumni Discount, and postgraduate loans.

Careers and Placements

The Politics and Public Policy (MA) program demonstrates an excellent understanding of government and policy-making at multiple levels of governance, making graduates suitable for a wide range of roles within the public, private, and third sectors. The program also develops advanced analytical, research, and communications skills, including the ability to independently solve problems and make decisions in challenging situations.

Conclusion

The Politics and Public Policy (MA) program at Cardiff University offers a comprehensive and advanced understanding of policy analysis and governance. With its structured course content, diverse range of modules, and emphasis on research skills, this program is ideal for students seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in politics and public policy, leading to a wide range of career opportunities.

Cardiff University

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Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

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Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.