MSc Comparative Public Policy

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.  

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

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

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

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