MSc Public Policy at University of Exeter

Build real-world policy expertise: Develop the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to understand how public policy is created, implemented, and evaluated. Learn to assess costs and benefits, address ethical challenges, and analyse the real impact of policy decisions. Learn from experience: Benefit from teaching shaped by public policy professionals and real-world projects, including the creation of policy briefings and the design and delivery of policy plans. Gain strong analytical and research skills: Master both qualitative and quantitative research methods — essential tools for understanding complex policy processes and evaluating outcomes effectively.

Duration: 1 year full time; 2 years part time  |  Study mode: full-time / part-time  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Exeter, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

You will explore a range of disciplines, including political science, sociology, economics, law, public management, criminology, development and conflict and security studies. Topics include the ‘public’ aspect of the policy process (focusing on public ownership, funding and regulation) and the policy cycle approach (development, formulation, implementation and analysis/evaluation). We will introduce you to a range of key concepts such as the theory of markets, failures, externalities and public goods.

Career pathways

The career paths for MSc Public Policy graduates are well established with good employability prospects including in the UK and internationally, for example: Civil servants in central government or local government professionals, workers in think tanks, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and consultancies

Official programme page