MSc Public Policy at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

Rigorous training in the analytical frameworks and methods used to study public policy, linking methodological tools to real-world problems facing governments. Students build research, data analysis, report writing and presentation skills and may do a client-based dissertation project.

Faculty: Humanities & Social Sciences | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Compulsory classes are Theories and Practices of Regulation and Governance, Policy Analysis, Qualitative Methods, Political Behaviour and Quantitative Methods 1, with electives such as Quantitative Methods 2, International Institutions & Regimes, European Governance, Comparative Political Economy and Contemporary Security Challenges and Responses, plus a dissertation.

Career pathways

Graduates work as policy practitioners and analysts in roles such as Public Affairs Officer, Corporate Affairs Manager and Business Analyst, at organisations including Audit Scotland, HMRC, Ofgem, NHS and the National Centre for Social Research, or proceed to a PhD.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

First-class or second-class honours degree, or international equivalent, in a social science. International applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 5.5, or an accepted equivalent test (University of Strathclyde standard requirement). International applicants who do not meet the academic requirements can take the Pre-Masters Preparation Course at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,700 a year (2027/28). Full-time; Scotland, England, Wales & Northern Ireland Source

International applicants: GBP 24,950 a year (2027/28) Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

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