International Public Policy

International Public Policy at Queen Mary University of London is a multidisciplinary postgraduate programme designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to analyze and address complex global issues facing governments, international organizations, and civil society. This programme explores the key themes of international relations, global governance, economic development, human rights, conflict resolution, and sustainable development, providing students with a thorough understanding of the political, social, and economic contexts in which public policies are formulated and implemented worldwide.

The course curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to critically evaluate policy proposals and their impacts. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including international law, diplomacy, security studies, global economic systems, and environmental policy. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical abilities, research skills, and effective communication strategies essential for careers in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions.

Queen Mary University of London’s International Public Policy programme benefits from experienced academic staff with extensive research backgrounds in global affairs, offering students unique insights into real-world policy challenges. The programme also emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, simulations, and internships, giving students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Furthermore, the university’s strategic location in London provides students with access to a hub of international policy institutions, think tanks, and diplomatic bodies, facilitating networking and professional development opportunities.

Graduates of this programme will be prepared for a range of careers in international public service, policy analysis, advocacy, or further academic research. They will have gained the critical thinking abilities and intercultural competence needed to thrive in diverse international settings. Overall, the International Public Policy master's programme at Queen Mary University of London aims to foster informed, innovative, and responsible policy practitioners ready to contribute positively to global society.

The MSc in International Public Policy is currently available for one year full-time study, or two years part-time study. You will study a combination of compulsory modules and also have a choice of optional modules. You will also complete a dissertation of 12,000 words.

Compulsory modules:

• International Public Policy: Concepts and Practice  
• Theories of the Policy-making Process
• Political Analysis
• Dissertation

Optional modules:

• Case Studies EU Policy Making
• Implementation and Evaluation
• Globalisation and the International Political Economy of Development
• International Security: War and Peace in a Global Context

Requirements

• A minimum of an upper-second class honours degree in Politics or a related discipline.
• IELTS 7.0
• Degree transcripts. Please provide a transcript of your degree(s). If you have not yet completed your degree please provide a transcript of your results achieved to date. 
• If your degree was from an overseas institution, you should supply a transcript of your marks for each year of your studies and a copy of your degree certificate together with a certified translation if the document is not in English. Please note that original documentation will be required before you enrol. International applicants are also advised to include high school transcripts
• Please provide the contact details of two referees, at least one reference must be from an academic referee who is in a position to comment on the standard of your academic work and suitability for postgraduate level study. Where appropriate, a second referee can provide comment on your professional experience.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/ Resume
• Statement of purpose. Your statement of purpose should explain why you want to study your chosen programme and how it will help your life and career. This should typically be one side of A4 paper.

Funding opportunities for the International Public Policy program at Queen Mary University of London include a variety of options to support students financially throughout their studies. The university offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, some of which are specifically targeted at international students. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit, potential contribution to the university community, and financial need. For example, the Queen Mary University of London International Excellence Scholarship provides partial fee waivers for outstanding international applicants, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

In addition to university-specific funding, students can also explore external sources such as government grants, loans, and sponsorship programs available in their home countries or internationally. Many students participate in scholarship programs offered by organizations such as the Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, and other donors that support postgraduate study in the UK. Loan options are also available, including UK-based student loans for eligible international students, depending on their nationality and residency status.

Furthermore, the university provides guidance and support for students seeking part-time employment during their studies. The campus offers various job opportunities in administration, research assistance, and student services, which can help students offset living expenses. Queen Mary University of London’s Careers Service also assists students in finding internships, placements, and part-time jobs aligned with their career interests, thereby enabling better financial management during their program.

It is recommended that prospective students carefully review the latest scholarship availability, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria on the university’s official website or contact the university’s admissions and scholarships office for personalized advice. Financial planning is an important aspect of preparing for postgraduate studies, and the university encourages early application for funding to maximize opportunities for financial support. Overall, students enrolled in the International Public Policy program can benefit from a comprehensive range of financing options designed to facilitate access to high-quality education while managing financial commitments effectively.

International Public Policy at Queen Mary University of London is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of global political issues, policymaking processes, and the social, economic, and political factors that influence international relations. The program explores a wide range of topics including international security, development, human rights, environmental policy, and global governance. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for analyzing complex international problems and developing effective policy solutions.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methodology, and hands-on experience through case studies, simulations, and internships. Core modules cover international relations theory, global political economy, conflict resolution, and the role of international organizations such as the UN and WTO. Elective options allow students to specialize in areas like peace and conflict studies, sustainable development, or regional politics. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, group projects, and guest lectures from practitioners and policy-makers, fostering active engagement and real-world insights.

Students are encouraged to develop strong communication and analytical skills, supported by the university’s modern facilities and resources. The program benefits from being based in London, providing access to diplomatic missions, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations, thus offering valuable networking and placement opportunities. Queen Mary University also emphasizes research-led teaching, ensuring that students are learning from academics who are actively contributing to their fields.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, policy analysis firms, or further academic study. The program’s interdisciplinary approach ensures students develop a nuanced understanding of the interconnected issues facing the global community today, preparing them to be effective advocates and policymakers in an ever-changing international landscape.