MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MSc Public Policy
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Public Policy program at the University of Reading is designed for individuals seeking to make a significant impact in public governance, policy development, and public sector leadership. The program provides students with an in-depth understanding of how public policies are formed, implemented, and evaluated, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to work in public administration, government agencies, think tanks, NGOs, or private sector organizations involved in public affairs. The program integrates theoretical frameworks with practical insights, preparing graduates to navigate complex policy challenges at local, national, and international levels. Students will explore the relationships between politics, economics, and social change, while gaining the tools to evaluate and design effective policies that address global issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and public health.
Curriculum: The MSc Public Policy program at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential aspects of public policy, governance, and political analysis. Core modules include topics such as public policy analysis, political institutions and governance, public sector economics, and research methods. The program offers students the opportunity to gain expertise in specific areas of public policy, such as social policy, environmental policy, or global governance, through elective modules. Students will be introduced to the key principles and challenges of policymaking, including the role of political actors, the impact of interest groups, the influence of international organizations, and the application of evidence in policy decisions. The curriculum is designed to ensure that students acquire both practical and theoretical knowledge, preparing them for leadership roles in public administration, policy advising, or international development.
Research Focus: Research is a key component of the MSc Public Policy program at the University of Reading, with faculty members engaged in cutting-edge research in areas such as governance, political institutions, global policy challenges, and public sector management. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based policymaking, helping students understand how research and data can inform decisions and improve outcomes in public policy. Research areas include climate change policy, health and social care reform, education policy, and political analysis. Students are encouraged to undertake research projects that explore contemporary policy issues, develop new solutions, and contribute to the academic discourse on public policy. The program provides students with the tools to critically analyze policy and evaluate its effectiveness, ensuring that they are well-prepared for careers that require analytical rigor and a commitment to evidence-driven decision-making.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Public Policy program places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, providing students with opportunities to collaborate with policymakers, practitioners, and other key stakeholders in the public and private sectors. The university’s connections with government departments, international organizations, NGOs, and think tanks provide students with practical insights into the world of policymaking and implementation. Students may have the opportunity to participate in internships, fieldwork, and collaborative research projects with external partners, gaining hands-on experience in public policy development and analysis. Additionally, the program includes guest lectures and seminars by prominent policymakers and public sector leaders, allowing students to interact with experts and learn about the challenges and opportunities of policymaking in practice. These industry engagements help students build professional networks and increase their employability in the public policy field.
Global Perspective: The MSc Public Policy program at the University of Reading offers a global perspective on public governance and policy analysis. Given the interconnected nature of today’s political and economic systems, the program prepares students to understand global policy issues and the role of international institutions in shaping national and local policies. Through discussions on global governance, international law, and cross-border policy challenges, students gain a broader understanding of the international dimensions of public policy. The diverse student body and faculty expertise bring different cultural and regional perspectives, enriching the learning experience and fostering a deeper understanding of how public policy varies across different countries and contexts. The global outlook ensures that graduates are prepared for careers that require them to navigate the complexities of international policymaking, whether in global organizations, international NGOs, or multinational corporations.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
The MSc Public Policy program at the University of Reading equips students with the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to pursue rewarding careers in the public and private sectors. By providing a deep understanding of how public policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles in governance, policy analysis, and public sector management. Whether working with government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, or think tanks, graduates can explore diverse career options where they can contribute to effective policy design and implementation.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, who are responsible for researching, analyzing, and evaluating public policies. These professionals provide critical insights to governments, organizations, and public institutions to inform policy decisions. Policy analysts assess the effectiveness of current policies, recommend changes, and support the development of new policies in areas such as healthcare, education, economic development, or environmental sustainability. This role is found in government agencies, think tanks, consultancy firms, and international organizations.
Public Affairs Consultant: Public affairs consultants work with organizations to navigate complex political and regulatory environments. They help clients—such as corporations, government bodies, and NGOs—understand public policy changes, advise on advocacy strategies, and manage relationships with policymakers and stakeholders. Graduates of the MSc Public Policy program can pursue a career in public affairs consulting, where they can use their knowledge of political institutions and policy processes to influence decision-making at local, national, or international levels.
Government Advisor: As government advisors, graduates provide expert policy advice to ministers, senior officials, and policymakers. Their role involves advising on the development and implementation of policies, as well as guiding the political decision-making process. Government advisors are often employed by national, regional, and local government departments, helping shape policies that address critical issues such as public health, education, or national security.
Public Sector Manager: Public sector managers oversee the operations and administration of public organizations, ensuring that services are delivered efficiently and policies are effectively implemented. Graduates of the MSc Public Policy program can work as public sector managers in areas such as healthcare, transportation, social services, or urban planning. These professionals are responsible for managing budgets, resources, and teams, while ensuring that public policies are carried out in line with government priorities and objectives.
International Development Specialist: Graduates interested in global public policy issues may choose to work as international development specialists. These professionals work for international organizations, such as the United Nations, World Bank, or international NGOs, focusing on policy development, project management, and the implementation of development programs in emerging and developing countries. They work to address issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and economic development, creating policies and initiatives that promote social and economic progress worldwide.
Legislative Assistant: Legislative assistants work closely with elected officials to support their policy agendas. They conduct research, draft legislation, analyze bills, and assist in the development of policy recommendations. Graduates of the MSc Public Policy program who are interested in politics and government can pursue a career as legislative assistants, contributing directly to the legislative process and working to enact policies that address public issues.
Political Risk Analyst: Political risk analysts assess how political events, government decisions, or changes in policy might impact businesses, industries, or international relations. Graduates of the MSc Public Policy program with an interest in international relations, economics, or business strategy can work in this field, advising organizations, multinational corporations, or investors on potential political risks and their implications for decision-making and long-term planning.
Advocacy and Campaign Manager: For graduates interested in influencing policy decisions through public opinion and social movements, becoming an advocacy or campaign manager is a promising career option. These professionals work to build support for specific causes, mobilizing communities, organizations, and the public to advocate for policy changes. They may work with NGOs, advocacy groups, or political parties to manage campaigns focused on issues such as social justice, climate change, healthcare reform, or human rights.
Social Policy Researcher: Social policy researchers focus on analyzing social problems and evaluating the effectiveness of policies aimed at addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, education, or healthcare. These professionals use research methodologies to gather data, conduct surveys, and analyze trends in order to provide evidence that can guide policy reform. Graduates of the MSc Public Policy program with a strong interest in social issues and research may choose to pursue careers in academic or non-profit research organizations.
Environmental Policy Specialist: As environmental policy specialists, graduates focus on the development and implementation of policies related to environmental protection, sustainability, and climate change. These professionals work in governmental agencies, international organizations, environmental NGOs, or consulting firms, addressing issues like carbon emissions reduction, biodiversity conservation, and the regulation of natural resources. Graduates with expertise in environmental policy are well-positioned to work on global challenges related to environmental sustainability.
