MSc Public Policy

Entry requirements

We will consider applicants with a 2:2 Honours degree or above (or equivalent). We welcome students from any academic background.

Course content

You will explore a range of disciplines, including political science, sociology, economics, law, public management, criminology, development and conflict and security studies. Topics include the ‘public’ aspect of the policy process (focusing on public ownership, funding and regulation) and the policy cycle approach (development, formulation, implementation and analysis/evaluation).

We will introduce you to a range of key concepts such as the theory of markets, failures, externalities and public goods. To support you in this, you will learn qualitative and quantitative research methods providing you with the tools necessary to understand processes, to analyse important policy issues and assess policy outcomes.

The dissertation provides an opportunity to develop your academic skills and complete extended research in your chosen policy area. You’ll also choose from an array of optional modules from across the social sciences enabling you to tailor your programme according to your academic and career interests.

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Fees

2026/27 entry

UK fees per year:

£12,650 full-time; £6,325 part-time

International fees per year:

£25,550 full-time; £12,775 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of scholarships to support your education, with £7 million available for international students applying to study with us in the 2026/27 academic year, including our prestigious Exeter Excellence Scholarships *. We also provide awards for sport, music and other achievements, as well as regional and partner scholarships with organisations such as Chevening, The Beacon Trust and the British Council. For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.

University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship

We are pleased to offer University of Exeter alumni beginning a standalone postgraduate programme in 2026/27 with us a scholarship towards the cost of your tuition fees. Full details can be found here.

^{*Terms and conditions, including deadlines, apply. See our website for details..}

Teaching and research

Teaching is research-led, ensuring that what you learn will be cutting edge and at the heart of contemporary public policy methods and debate. Teaching methods typically include:

• Academic seminars
• Presentations, simulations and class discussions
• Small group work
• Guided reading and teacher supported analysis and reflection
• Digitally enhanced learning support including electronic resources and interactive learning tools

Teaching applies learning to real-world challenges and operating in a complex problem space. You will have the opportunity to practice how your learning is engaged within wider social, economic, and policy debates. Its strengths include Politics expertise in both environmental policy and behavioural public policy and administration research, and citizens, the state and technology.

Assessments

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Careers

Employer valued skills

• Solid knowledge and understanding of public policy at national and international levels, and understanding of how social, political and economic contexts affect public policies
• Argument development and debate
• Empirical research and analysis
• Ability to examine data and theories using a multi-disciplinary social science approach grounded in public policy
• Effective communication and presentation
• Time management and working to deadlines

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