Public Policy

Public Policy at the University of Warwick equips students with the essential knowledge, analytical skills, and practical experience necessary to understand and influence the formulation and implementation of public policies. This programme is designed for those passionate about making a positive impact on society through effective governance and policy-making. Throughout the course, students will explore a broad range of topics including political theory, economics, public administration, law, and ethics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex processes that shape public decisions and societal outcomes. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and policy evaluation, preparing graduates to address real-world challenges faced by governments, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector entities. Students will engage with contemporary issues such as social justice, environmental sustainability, economic development, and technological innovation, gaining valuable insights into how policies are developed, implemented, and assessed. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, including case studies, policy simulations, and opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. With expert faculty from diverse backgrounds, the programme fosters a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to analyze issues from multiple perspectives. Employing modern teaching methods, including seminars, workshops, and digital learning tools, the programme encourages active participation and independent research. Warwick’s strategic location and strong links with policymakers, public institutions, and industry partners offer students a unique advantage for networking and career development. Graduates of this programme will be prepared for careers in policy analysis, consultancy, government agencies, advocacy groups, international organizations, and research institutes. They will possess the skills to design innovative policy solutions, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and evaluate policy impacts critically. Committed to fostering responsible and ethical leadership, Warwick’s Public Policy programme aims to develop future policymakers who are capable of addressing the most pressing global and local issues with integrity, creativity, and professionalism. Whether students aspire to work in national government, local authorities, or international development, this programme provides a rigorous foundation and vibrant academic environment to support their ambitions and promote positive societal change.

Unlike an MPA course, this programme combines an understanding of descriptive and normative theory with the practice of policy analysis and PAIS’s world-leading work on transnational policy-making. You will identify and analyse the main traditions of policy studies, the core concepts of policy analysis, and theories of policy change. By combining the core module with other topical modules in PAIS, you will be able to specialise your policy analysis expertise through the lens of a particular region, development, political economy, security, gender, democratisation, etc. It is thus ideal for students wanting to pursue advanced conceptual studies in Politics but who want to give those studies an applied focus.

The core module, Theories and Traditions in Public Policy, identifies and analyses the main traditions of policy studies, the core concepts of policy analysis, and theories of policy change.

In addition to the core module, students take any other modules totalling 80 CATS from a large range options. There are more than 25 to choose from in PAIS alone, or students can take approved modules from other Warwick departments. By selecting from this wide range of modules, each student can focus their Public Policy MA on a particular branch of policy studies, including European policy, global policy, policy and security, policy and development, general public policy, and more.

Part I

• You will follow 120 CATS (credits) of taught modules in Terms 1 & 2
• 40 of these CATS will be your core module
• The other 80 CATS may comprise of any combination of PAIS modules which
  • Is feasible within the relevant year's timetable
  • Is spread evenly between terms (ie, you cannot overload one term)
  • May include a mix of 40 CATS (full year) and 20 CATS (half year) modules
  • May include up to 40 CATS from a cognate department (see modules page)
• This works out to a commitment of 60 CATS per term, or six 2-hour seminar sessions + independent research
• You will also participate in several workshops spread throughout the year, including research skills and careers sessions
• Taught modules in PAIS are assessed by essay only

Part II

• You must pass Part I in order to proceed to Part II
• You will research and write a 10,000 word 60 CATS dissertation in Term 3 & over the summer holidays
• You will be assigned an academic advisor to help guide your research
• You will have the opportunity to participate in a Dissertation Conference to present your research and see what your colleagues are working on

• 2:i degree (or equivalent) in Politics and International Studies or a closely related subject (however, all serious applications from other disciplines will be considered);
• A strong personal statement
• Transcripts
• Statement of purpose

English Language

The University of Warwick offers a range of funding options for students enrolled in its Public Policy programmes, aimed at supporting both domestic and international students. Tuition fees for UK students are set annually and are subject to government regulations, with current figures typically available on the university's official website. For International students, fees are higher and also vary depending on the specific course and year of entry. In addition to tuition fees, students can explore various funding schemes including scholarships, grants, and bursaries. The Warwick Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship and the Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships are competitive awards designed to support outstanding international students and help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

For UK students pursuing postgraduate degrees, funding can be accessed through student loans provided by the UK government, which typically cover tuition fees and living expenses. The Postgraduate Loan Scheme offers up to a specified maximum amount, which students can use to fund their studies at Warwick. Moreover, the university administers a number of employer-sponsored scholarships and partnerships that can offer financial assistance based on academic merit, financial need, or field-specific criteria.

International students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including scholarships from their home countries, international organizations, and private foundations. Warwick's Financial Aid Office offers guidance on available funding opportunities and application procedures. For students undertaking research degrees within the Public Policy field, funding options include research council grants and internal research scholarships, which are highly competitive but provide comprehensive financial support for tuition and living costs.

Part-time work opportunities on-campus are also available to help students supplement their income while pursuing their studies. The university’s careers service provides assistance with job searching and career planning, which can contribute to managing overall financial needs during the programme. Overall, Warwick is committed to ensuring access to quality education through a broad spectrum of financial support options, making it an attractive destination for students interested in Public Policy studies.

Public Policy at the University of Warwick offers students a comprehensive understanding of how government and public sector organizations operate, develop, and implement policies that impact society. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, a strong foundation in political and economic theory, and practical insights into policy formulation and evaluation. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students explore key issues such as governance, public administration, social justice, and international policy challenges.

The curriculum integrates core modules in political science, economics, and sociology, complemented by specialised courses in policy analysis, public management, and ethics. The program encourages active engagement with real-world policy problems through case studies, simulations, and collaborative projects with government agencies and NGOs. Students are also provided with opportunities for work placements and internships, which enhance their practical understanding and professional networks.

The University of Warwick emphasizes research-led teaching, ensuring that students are trained to critically evaluate public policies and develop innovative solutions. The program prepares graduates for careers in government departments, international organizations, think tanks, consultancy firms, and non-profit sectors. It also provides a solid foundation for further research or postgraduate study in public policy, governance, or related fields.

Students benefit from Warwick’s vibrant campus environment, access to a global network of academic experts, and participation in seminars and conferences addressing contemporary policy issues. The program emphasizes analytical rigor, ethical considerations, and the importance of inclusive policy-making that considers diverse social perspectives. Graduates emerge with the skills needed to influence and improve public policies, contribute to social change, and operate effectively in complex political environments.