University of Sheffield United Kingdom

Politics, Governance and Public Policy MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Politics, Governance and Public Policy MA at the University of Sheffield is designed for aspiring policymakers, analysts, and researchers keen to understand and shape the complexities of contemporary governance. You will explore how policy is made, implemented, and evaluated across diverse political systems, engaging with critical concepts such as democratic governance, policy-making in the real world, and the political economy of global environmental change. This postgraduate degree is ideal if you seek to develop advanced analytical skills to address pressing societal challenges and contribute to effective public and private sector leadership.

This Master's degree is studied full-time on campus over one year, offering an intensive and immersive learning experience. You will engage with core modules like Analysing the Policy Process and Research and Dissertation Preparation, alongside a range of optional subjects such as Global Health and Global Politics, or Terrorism and Political Violence. Throughout your studies, you will develop your research capabilities, culminating in a substantial dissertation project. You will graduate with a strong theoretical understanding and practical insights, prepared for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, and policy-focused roles in the private sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program offers a comprehensive exploration of politics, governance, and public policy. Students will engage with core modules covering policy analysis, political understanding, and research methodologies, culminating in a dissertation. A wide array of optional modules allows for specialization in diverse areas such as democratic governance, international relations, political economy, and human rights, providing a flexible and in-depth study experience.

1 Core modules:

Analysing the Policy Process
Understanding Politics
Research and Dissertation Preparation
Politics Dissertation

2 Optional modules:

Democratic Governance in the 21st Century: Problems, Innovations and Solutions
Chinese Governance and Politics
Policy-Making in the Real World
Wellbeing in Politics and Policy
Political Economy of Global Environmental change
Contemporary Global Security
Feminist and Decolonizing Approaches to International Relations: Bodies, Coloniality, Knowledge
Global Health and Global Politics
Global Politics of Climate Change
Human Rights
Terrorism and Political Violence
Capitalism and Crisis
Development and the State
Freedom

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 35,576.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,576.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 667.00 - USD 2,267.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Sheffield Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsEducation Policy & AdministrationHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingIntellectual Property LawPrivate Security & Risk ManagementPublic Health & EpidemiologyTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department for Business and Trade

European commission

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

United Nations

Why Study Politics, Governance and Public Policy MA at University of Sheffield

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Sheffield in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Politics, Governance and Public Policy MA at University of Sheffield

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. They can work full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, you'll need an overall score of 88, with specific minimums in listening (19), reading (20), speaking (22), and writing (19). IELTS and PTE scores are also accepted with comparable requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Consultant, Governance Specialist, and Project Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

In this course, you'll delve into the complexities of governance and the policymaking process. Key topics include global development policies by the UN and the impact of private actors on public governance.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course starts in September. It's important to check application deadlines to ensure you secure your place in time.
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