MSc Public Policy and Management with Placement Year
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This program is tailored for individuals aiming to understand, analyze, and manage organizations within the public sector. It offers state-of-the-art knowledge of theories, doctrines, and techniques essential for enhancing the performance of public sector entities. The inclusion of a placement year allows students to apply their academic learning in a practical setting, thereby enhancing their professional skills and employability.
Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses a range of core and optional modules designed to provide a deep understanding of public policy and management. Core modules include Public Policy: Perspectives, Issues and Strategies; Fiscal Governance, Budgeting and Performance; Innovation and Organisational Change; and Public Governance, Accountability and Transparency. Students also have the opportunity to select from various electives to tailor their learning to specific interests and career goals.
Research Focus: SOAS emphasizes a research-led approach, encouraging students to engage with contemporary debates and conduct independent research. The program draws on interdisciplinary perspectives, incorporating insights from sociology, politics, economics, and international relations. Students are trained to critically analyze policy outcomes and management practices, preparing them for roles that require evidence-based decision-making.
Industry Engagement: A distinctive feature of this program is the 10–12 month work placement, which allows students to gain practical experience in a real-world setting. Students are responsible for securing their placements, with support from the SOAS Careers team, which offers assistance with CV writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies. The placement can be in various organizations, including government departments, NGOs, or international bodies, and is designed to be relevant to the student's degree.
Global Perspective: SOAS University of London is renowned for its focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, providing students with a unique global perspective on public policy and management. The program encourages critical thinking about global governance trends, the impact of globalization, and the role of international policies. By engaging with diverse case studies and theoretical frameworks, students gain a nuanced understanding of public sector dynamics worldwide.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25740
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 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Graduates of the MSc Public Policy and Management with Placement Year at SOAS University of London are well-equipped for a diverse range of career opportunities across the public sector, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), consultancy firms, and academia. The program's unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience through the placement year enhances employability and prepares students for impactful roles in various sectors.
Public Sector and Government Roles: Many alumni pursue careers within government departments, public agencies, and local authorities. Roles may include policy analysts, public affairs consultants, or administrative officers, where they contribute to the formulation and implementation of public policies.
International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates often find opportunities in international bodies such as the United Nations, World Bank, or various non-governmental organizations. Positions in these organizations may involve program management, policy advising, or research roles focusing on global development and governance.
Consultancy and Advisory Services: The analytical and strategic skills developed during the program prepare graduates for roles in consultancy firms specializing in public sector projects. They may work as consultants or advisors, providing insights on policy development, public management, and organizational change.
Academic and Research Institutions: For those inclined towards academia, the program offers a solid foundation for pursuing doctoral studies or engaging in research roles. Graduates may contribute to scholarly work on public policy, governance, or related fields, often collaborating with institutions focusing on social sciences and humanities.
Private Sector and Corporate Roles: The program's emphasis on management and strategic planning also enables graduates to transition into the private sector. They may take on roles such as corporate social responsibility managers, compliance officers, or public affairs specialists within corporations that interact with public sector entities.
