MA Politics, Governance and Public Policy

This master's course delves into the multifaceted nature of political authority and public policy, examining the roles of various actors across local, national, and international levels. It emphasizes the significance of governance structures and their impact on policy development and implementation.

Curriculum: The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications. Core modules include 'Analysing the Policy Process,' which provides analytical tools to understand policy-making as an inherently political process, and 'Understanding Politics,' focusing on the principles and levels of political analysis. Students also engage in a 'Research and Dissertation Preparation' module, culminating in a 10,000-word dissertation that allows for in-depth exploration of a chosen topic.

Research Focus: The program encourages a critical examination of governance and public policy, fostering research that addresses real-world outcomes and impacts of policy decisions. Students have the opportunity to engage with diverse theoretical and methodological perspectives, contributing to a nuanced understanding of political institutions and processes.

Industry Engagement: While specific industry engagement opportunities are not detailed, the program's emphasis on practical applications suggests potential interactions with policymakers, public institutions, and governance bodies, enhancing students' readiness for careers in public policy and administration.

Global Perspective: The course content reflects a global outlook, analyzing governance and policy-making in various contexts, including international organizations like the UN and the World Bank. This global perspective prepares students to understand and address policy challenges in diverse cultural and political environments.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60%-70% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 22 in Speaking, and 19 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 61 with no individual score below 56.

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.

Postgraduate students may be eligible for the following scholarships:

Postgraduate Taught Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is available to UK, EU, and international students who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time or part-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship is worth 50% of the tuition fee for each year of study.

International Merit Postgraduate Taught Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship is worth 50% of the tuition fee for each year of study.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: This scholarship is available to students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee, airfare to and from the UK, and a monthly stipend.

Graduates of the MA in Politics, Governance, and Public Policy program have diverse and promising career prospects in various fields where understanding political systems and public policy is crucial. 

Government and Public Administration: Graduates can pursue careers in government and public administration, working as policy analysts, administrators, or civil servants.

Public Policy and Advocacy: The program prepares students for roles in policy research, advocacy, and consulting for nonprofit organizations and think tanks.

Political Consulting: Graduates may explore careers in political consulting, advising politicians and policymakers on governance and public policy matters.

International Organizations: The program equips students with insights into global politics and governance, making them suitable for roles in international organizations.

Research and Academia: Some graduates may choose to pursue further studies or academic careers, contributing to political science and policy research.