Public Policy

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Postgraduate Diploma
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy at the University of Galway is designed for individuals seeking to develop a sophisticated understanding of policy challenges and their political contexts. You will explore the complexities of policy-making at national, European, and global levels, engaging with critical issues such as participation, implementation, and evaluation. This programme is ideal for graduates from social science, arts, commerce, or law backgrounds who aspire to careers in government, public bodies, civil society organisations, or international agencies, equipping you with the analytical and practical skills essential for effective policy work.

This intensive, full-time, on-campus programme is structured over one year, immersing you in core modules covering public policy, politics, and research methods, complemented by research workshops and a substantial research paper. You will have the opportunity to select from a range of optional modules, including specialised areas like urban public policy, gender, peace and security, or data analytics, and potentially undertake a professional experience placement. You will graduate with a robust understanding of policy processes and enhanced skills in communication, negotiation, and critical analysis, preparing you for impactful roles in policy development and implementation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the intricate relationship between public policy and politics, examining policy challenges at national, European, and global levels. Students will develop essential research methods and engage in workshops to hone their analytical skills. The curriculum offers a diverse range of optional modules, allowing for specialization in areas such as urban public policy, international relations, social justice, and communication strategies, culminating in a significant research paper.

1 Core modules (35 ECTS)

Public Policy and Politics Compulsory
Policy Challenges: National, European and Global Compulsory
Research Methods and Methodology Compulsory
Research Workshops Compulsory
Research Paper Compulsory

2 LIST OF OPTIONAL MODULES

Families and Children in Society and Policy

3 5 ECTS modules, Semester 2

Field-based Learning (Brussels Field Trip)
Negotiations
Data Analytics for Social Sciences 1
Development and Human Rights
Applied Gender Analyses
Women, Conflict and Human Security
ENLIGHT Summer School: Equity and Sustainability Transitions

4 10 ECTS modules, Semester 2

Urban Public Policy: Smart & Liveable Cities
Conflict, Peace & Security
Irish Politics North and South
Social and Political Context of Activism and Advocacy
Gender, Sexuality and Global Health
NGOs in the 20th Century and the Making of the 20th Century World
Crime and Disorder
Global Issues in Agricultural, Marine and Renewable Energy Economics
Environmental Economic Modelling
International Policy and Ageing across the Life Course
Strategic Communication
Communicating Climate Action and Science
European Consumer Law and Policy
Advocacy and Access to Justice
Professional Experience (Placement)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 23,409.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,085.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Galway Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringClinical & Medical ServicesEconomic Research & PolicyEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseEnergy Trading & MarketsEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsPower Generation & UtilitiesRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Atlantic Technological University

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

European commission

Health Service Executive (HSE)

Natural Resources Canada

Why Study Public Policy at University of Galway

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Galway in Ireland

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 Public Policy at University of Galway

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is required for full-time students in eligible programs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, international students must meet specific English test requirements: TOEFL overall score of 88, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 61. Specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing minimum scores apply for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers such as Policy Analyst, Project Manager, Government Consultant, NGO Coordinator, and Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course takes 1 year, full-time,2 years, part-time.The MA in Public Policy prepares its graduates to work in government, public bodies, civil society organisations, NGOs, international organisations, businesses and other fields and organisations that require an expert understanding of policymaking. In addition to core policy and research training modules, it offers a field trip to Brussels to examine EU policymaking and specialised modules in specific policy areas including: Policy in

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Policy course accepts students every September, offering both full-time and part-time study options. Full-time students complete the course in 1 year, while part-time students take 2 years to finish.
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