MSc Comparative Public Policy

The MSc in Comparative Public Policy focuses on the comparative analysis of public policy within diverse political, economic, and social contexts. This program equips students with the necessary skills to critically evaluate and compare public policies across different countries, examining how political institutions, societal values, and economic systems influence policy development. Students will explore key areas of public policy, including education, healthcare, social welfare, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The program is ideal for individuals looking to pursue careers in government, international organizations, think tanks, or NGOs. It provides a thorough understanding of the policymaking process, offering insights into how public policies can be shaped to meet the needs of a globalized world.

Curriculum: The MSc in Comparative Public Policy offers a well-rounded curriculum that combines core modules with opportunities for specialization in specific areas of public policy. Core courses typically include Comparative Public Policy Analysis, Global Governance and Policy Making, and Research Methods in Public Policy. These foundational courses introduce students to essential theories and methodologies for comparative policy analysis, enabling them to understand how policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated in different international contexts. Elective modules allow students to focus on specific topics, such as Social Policy, Economic Policy, Health Policy, or Environmental Policy. The curriculum also includes a dissertation component, providing students with the opportunity to conduct independent research on a relevant issue in public policy, deepening their understanding of comparative approaches to policy analysis.

Research Focus: The MSc in Comparative Public Policy at the University of Edinburgh is supported by the university’s research centers, including the Edinburgh Centre for Constitutional Law and the Global Development Academy, which focus on critical areas of public policy and governance. Research at Edinburgh spans various themes, including global governance, policy implementation, welfare systems, and policy innovations in developing countries. The university encourages students to engage with ongoing research initiatives, allowing them to explore the complexities of policy development and its impacts. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based research, students are encouraged to critically analyze how different policy solutions can be applied across diverse political, cultural, and economic environments.

Industry Engagement: The MSc in Comparative Public Policy benefits from the University of Edinburgh’s extensive connections with governmental bodies, international organizations, and public policy institutions. Through partnerships and collaborations, students have access to a variety of industry engagement opportunities, including internships, research projects, and policy consultations. The program also hosts seminars, workshops, and lectures by prominent policymakers, practitioners, and academics, providing students with direct insights into real-world policy challenges. These opportunities not only enhance students' understanding of public policy but also prepare them for careers in public administration, policy analysis, international development, and advocacy. Students are encouraged to participate in these industry events, fostering valuable networking opportunities and enhancing their practical experience in policy development.

Global Perspective: The MSc in Comparative Public Policy at the University of Edinburgh adopts a global perspective, providing students with the tools to understand and analyze public policies from various international contexts. The program attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse academic environment that promotes cross-cultural exchange and collaborative learning. The curriculum is designed to encourage students to compare policies across different countries, exploring how local, regional, and global factors influence public policymaking. With its focus on global governance and international policy challenges, the program prepares students to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, social inequality, and sustainable development from a comparative and globally informed standpoint.

Postgraduate entry requirements:

Application fee : £50

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The MSc Comparative Public Policy program equips graduates with a diverse skill set and deep understanding of public policy processes across different countries and regions. This interdisciplinary program opens up a range of rewarding career opportunities in various sectors where policy analysis, evaluation, and development are essential.  

Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as policy analysts in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutes. They analyze policy options, assess their impact, and provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers.

Government and International Organizations: Many graduates work for government departments or international organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, or European Union, contributing to policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation.

Consulting: Some graduates join consulting firms specializing in public policy and strategic advice. They support clients in navigating complex policy environments, conducting research, and developing policy solutions.

Advocacy and Campaigning: Graduates may work for advocacy groups, NGOs, or grassroots organizations, advocating for specific policy changes or promoting social causes.

Research and Academia: The program prepares students for research roles in academia or think tanks, conducting comparative studies on policy issues and contributing to scholarly debates.

Private Sector: Some graduates leverage their policy analysis skills in industries affected by government regulations, such as healthcare, energy, or finance. They may work in corporate strategy, regulatory compliance, or public affairs.

International Development: Careers in international development involve working on projects related to poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and governance reform in developing countries.

Public Engagement and Communications: Graduates may specialize in public engagement and communications, translating complex policy issues into accessible content for diverse audiences.