Global Public Policy and Management EMPA

The MSc in Global Public Policy and Management EMPA at University College London is a comprehensive and innovative programme designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the complex landscape of public policy and management on a global scale. This interdisciplinary course combines rigorous academic training with practical insights, equipping students with the analytical skills, strategic understanding, and ethical considerations necessary to address the most pressing international issues. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers key areas such as international governance, public administration, policy analysis, development economics, and strategic management, providing a well-rounded foundation for effective policy formulation and implementation. The programme emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, consultancy projects, and collaborations with international organizations, governmental bodies, and non-governmental entities. This approach ensures graduates are not only theoretically proficient but also practically experienced in navigating real-world policy environments. The MSc is suitable for graduates aiming for careers in international agencies, governmental departments, think tanks, or NGOs, as well as for mid-career professionals seeking to enhance their expertise and advance in their fields. Faculty members comprise leading experts in global policy, economics, management, and social sciences, who bring cutting-edge research and practical expertise to the classroom. The programme's flexible structure accommodates different backgrounds and allows students to tailor their learning experience according to their interests and career aspirations. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, workshops, and collaborative projects, students develop critical thinking, policy analysis, leadership, and communication skills essential for impactful work in the global policy arena. Graduates of the MSc in Global Public Policy and Management EMPA will be equipped to contribute effectively to the development, analysis, and implementation of policies that address global challenges such as climate change, economic development, social inequality, and governance reform. With a strong network of alumni and partnerships worldwide, UCL offers students ongoing support and opportunities to engage with global policy issues even after graduation.

Students will spend the first semester at NYU Wagner in New York City, the Spring Term at UCL and the summer in locations across the globe working on a client-based Capstone project. Core modules bridge cutting-edge concepts and skills in policy analysis, management, implementation, and facilitating change. Students will then select from the offerings of both institutions to craft an approach best suited to their specific needs.

Students undertake modules to the value of 150 credits (equivalent to 30 credits at NYU or 75 ECTS credits).

The programme consists of four core modules (two at UCL and two at NYU), four optional modules (two at UCL and two at NYU) and a Capstone project.

Core modules

• Term One at NYU Wagner
• Global Public Policy Analysis Reform
• Institutions, Governance, and Public Sector Reform
• Term Two at UCL
• Strategy and Organisational Change
• Policy Implementation

Optional modules

Students select two from NYU Wagner and two from UCL. The below are suggestions. 

• Term One at NYU Wagner
• Design Thinking: A Creative Approach to Problem Solving and Creating Impact
• Global Health Policy
• Conflict Management and Negotiation
• International Economic Development: Government Markets
• International Development Project Planning
• Politics of International Development
• Sustainable Cities
• Please see the NYU website for all available options.
• Term Two at UCL
• Agenda Setting and Public Policy
• Policy and Regulation in Europe
• Human Rights: Accountability and World Politics
• International Trade Policy
• Law and Regulation
• Making Policy Work
• Public Management: Theories and Innovations
• Please see the UCL website for all available options.

Capstone Project

All students undertake a Capstone group project which allows them to expand on their own experiences, knowledge and skills acquired through the programme to deliver a concrete task for a public services organisation. The project can be conducted at an international organisation in the EU or USA.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, presentations and educational visits e.g. the British Library. Assesment is through examinations, essays and the Capstone group project.

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency. 

The English language level for this programme is: Standard

The Global Public Policy and Management EMPA at University College London offers a variety of financing options designed to support students throughout their studies. Funding opportunities include scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs that are intended to make the program accessible to a diverse range of applicants. UCL provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding candidates, aiming to recognize academic excellence and leadership potential. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees and sometimes include stipends for living expenses. Additionally, there are various external funding sources, such as government grants, international organization scholarships, and private sector sponsorships, which prospective students can explore to fund their studies. The university also offers payment plans that facilitate fee payments in installments, easing financial planning for students. For international students, UCL provides specific guidance on visa-related financial requirements and the availability of support services. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding from their home governments or private foundations, which often have dedicated resources for postgraduate study in public policy and management. The program emphasizes the importance of early financial planning, advising applicants to research and apply for relevant funding opportunities well in advance of their intended start date. Overall, while the program does not guarantee funding, UCL's comprehensive support system and numerous scholarship opportunities aim to reduce financial barriers and enable talented students from around the world to engage in advanced studies in global public policy and management.

Global Public Policy and Management EMPA at University College London is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills to address complex global challenges. The program focuses on the intersection of public policy, management, and international development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. It emphasizes understanding the policy process, strategic management, and ethical considerations in the context of global governance. The curriculum covers core areas such as public policy analysis, quantitative and qualitative research methods, leadership, and strategic communication. Students are encouraged to critically evaluate policy options and develop innovative solutions for issues such as inequality, climate change, health, and security. The program benefits from UCL's strong links with policy practitioners, providing opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world projects. It combines rigorous academic training with practical application, often including consultancy projects and collaborations with external organizations. The program typically welcomes students from diverse professional backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment through seminars, workshops, and peer learning. The faculty consists of leading academics and practitioners who bring a wealth of experience in global policy and management. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to take on influential roles in shaping public policy, managing public institutions, and implementing international development initiatives. The program is delivered through a hybrid format, including face-to-face sessions in London and online components, allowing flexibility for working professionals. This degree aims to enhance analytical capabilities, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to effectively navigate the complexities of global governance and public management.