MSc Public Policy- scholarships and bursaries available to those eligible

Rethink public policy

This specialist master's course is specifically designed for working professionals. It combines online and intensive residential teaching over the course of two years.

By exploring how public policy is made, what shapes it, and how public policy professionals can make a difference, you’ll prepare for a range of policy-related roles in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

On the course, you will:

• investigate the political, economic and social dynamics that affect contemporary public policy
• examine how data and evidence in the digital environment are re-shaping how public policy is analysed, made and practised
• learn how to combine theory and practice to advance creative approaches for policy design and delivery
• develop your own policy specialism with the option to undertake work-related projects as part of your studies

Gain career skills

You will leave the course with:

• an advanced understanding of the concepts and tools used in public policymaking today, as well as their application and limitations both in the UK and internationally
• in-depth critical understanding of the political, economic and social dynamics that shape public policy development and outcomes in specialist field(s) of public policy
• a deeper knowledge of the contexts and constraints within which public policy is made on a global level
• the confidence to creatively apply different policymaking tools, identifying new ways to achieve public policy goals

The specialist teaching you will receive and advanced skills you will acquire could put you in a strong position for moving forward in any policy-facing or policy-shaping role, whether in analysis, strategy or delivery.

Build your network

Throughout the course, you’ll be immersed in a global network of policy-making researchers. This will give you opportunities to learn from a range of academics actively working in the field. Many members of our research community have international expertise in their areas, as well as links to senior international public policy makers and experienced policy analysts.

The distance learning format of this course puts you among a diverse and global group of peers. You’ll be able to draw on your own experiences and learn from your classmates through online group sessions and discussions. During the in-person residentials at our Bath campus, you'll also have opportunities to expand your network across current cohorts, as well as doctoral level students and staff.

Graduate prospects

This course typically helps people in the roles below to advance their careers:

• national civil servant in a policy position
•  government affairs official
• think tank researcher
• parliamentary advisor
• policy advisor
• policy advocate in a large NGO or advocacy organisation

Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll also be equipped with the relevant skillset for doctoral-level studies or advanced international policymaking.

Scholarships and bursaries

You could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath.

Find out more about funding options

Apply now

Students stories:

Combining a career in law with public policy: Maria’s story

MSc Public Policy graduate Maria talks about how studying at Bath helped her start a career as a senior consultant in regulatory improvement in Peru. Read more

Making change happen through public policy: Claire’s story

Claire, an MSc Public Policy graduate and Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Filton and Bradley Stoke, talks about how the course has impacted her career. Read more

Mastering my development as a public policy leader: Paul’s story

MSc Public Policy graduate Paul talks about how the course helped him to enhance his skills and progress in his career. Read more