MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity

Program Overview

The MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity program at the University of Glasgow offers a comprehensive curriculum that examines the relationship between education, public policy, and social equity. The program focuses on understanding how public policies can either perpetuate or mitigate social inequalities, particularly in education, and how these policies can be shaped to promote inclusivity, fairness, and equal opportunities. Students are encouraged to critically analyze global and local policies related to education, such as curriculum design, assessment, teacher training, and educational funding. The program is ideal for those seeking careers in educational policy-making, public administration, international organizations, or social research. Students benefit from both theoretical foundations and practical experiences that prepare them to advocate for positive educational and policy changes.

Curriculum: The MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity curriculum at the University of Glasgow is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the key issues at the intersection of education, public policy, and social equity. Core modules include Education and Social Justice, Public Policy Analysis, Global Education Policy, and Research Methods in Education and Policy. These modules equip students with the analytical tools needed to evaluate existing educational systems and policies and identify areas for reform. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of elective modules that allow them to specialize in specific areas, such as Education in the Global South, Equity in Higher Education, and Educational Leadership and Management. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to explore a topic of their choice in depth, applying the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout their studies.

Research Focus: The MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity program at the University of Glasgow is built upon the university's strong tradition of research excellence. Research in this program focuses on understanding the complex relationships between education systems, public policy, and societal inequalities. Key areas of research include educational inequality, policy reforms, inclusive education practices, access to quality education, and global education systems. The university’s faculty members are internationally recognized for their contributions to educational research, and students are encouraged to engage with ongoing projects, conduct original research, and contribute to the development of new approaches in education and public policy. Students can collaborate with faculty members and researchers on a wide range of topics, gaining valuable experience that informs their academic and professional goals.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity program emphasizes real-world applications of academic learning, fostering strong connections with industry and professional networks. The University of Glasgow has established partnerships with local and international organizations, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), educational institutions, and policy think tanks. These collaborations provide students with opportunities to undertake internships, engage in policy analysis, and contribute to impactful projects related to education and equity. Additionally, the university hosts seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by experts in the fields of education, public policy, and social justice, allowing students to learn from leading professionals and researchers. The strong industry engagement ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in policy development, educational leadership, and international development.

Global Perspective: The MSc Education, Public Policy & Equity program at the University of Glasgow adopts a global perspective, addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise when education, public policy, and social equity intersect on a global scale. Students explore global educational policies and their impact on equity, examining how different countries and regions address issues such as access to education, gender equality in education, and the impact of education on social mobility. The program encourages students to think critically about the role of education in addressing global challenges, such as poverty, climate change, and economic inequality. With a diverse student body representing a variety of backgrounds and nationalities, students gain a well-rounded understanding of educational systems worldwide. This global outlook ensures that graduates are equipped to work in international settings, whether in governmental or non-governmental organizations, international agencies, or policy advisory roles.