MA Governance, Politics and Policy (Research) at University of Manchester

Programme overview

Investigate the political institutions, governance systems and public policies shaping societies today while developing advanced research expertise. Stand out to employers through hands-on engagement with politicians and policymakers, including placement opportunities and initiatives delivered through Policy@Manchester.

What you will study

A master’s degree is formed of 180 credits. On the MA Governance, Politics and Policy (Research Route), there are seven mandatory course units, including a dissertation worth 60 credits. Compulsory units include Comparative Political Analysis, Research Design and Skills, Tools and techniques of applied quantitative analysis, Governance and the State, Understanding Political Change, Dissertation.

Career pathways

The University of Manchester is one of the most targeted universities by the UK’s top graduate employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2026). Our MA Governance, Politics and Policy gives you the specialist knowledge and skills required for a range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors, such as in: local and central government; the Civil Service; international and supranational institutions, such as the UN and the...

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

We require a UK bachelor's degree with a First or Upper Second classification or the overseas equivalent, in any discipline. When assessing your academic record we consider your degree subject, grades you have achieved and the standing of the institution where you studied your qualification. English language: IELTS Academic test score of 7 overall, including 7 in writing with no further component score below 6.5.

Domestic applicants: GBP 16,300 a year (2026/27). 2027 entry fees not yet set; 2026 entry fee shown for reference; MA (full-time) Source

International applicants: GBP 29,400 a year (2026/27). 2027 entry fees not yet set; 2026 entry fee shown for reference; MA (full-time) Source

Intake: 2027 entry

Duration: 1 year

Apply through the official page: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/how-to-apply/

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