Nottingham Trent University United Kingdom

Public Policy MSc

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 Public Policy MSc at Nottingham Trent University is crafted for aspiring policymakers, analysts, and advocates ready to tackle complex societal challenges. You will explore the sociocultural, economic, and political contexts of policymaking, alongside the fundamentals of research, analysis, and negotiation. This course is ideal for change-makers and early-career professionals seeking applied, Masters-level study with a strong emphasis on real-world learning and a clear pathway to an executive career in policymaking. You’ll gain the knowledge and transferable skills to excel in a broad range of roles, addressing critical issues from local social policy to international security and climate action.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is studied over one year, featuring small-group sessions designed for intimate, diverse learning environments. You will engage with practical, personalised approaches, connecting theory with the realities of public policy through modules like Policy in Focus and Researching Political Issues. A distinctive feature is the Policy Lab Research Project, where you and your peers collaborate with external organisations to resolve a real-world policy dilemma, consolidating your theoretical, research, and negotiation skills. You will graduate with tailored employability support and the confidence to pursue impactful careers in policymaking and related fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc in Public Policy offers a comprehensive exploration of policy theory, trends, and practical application. Students will engage with core modules covering policy research and a research project, alongside a range of elective courses allowing for specialization in areas such as education, health, environmental policy, or international relations. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the analytical and research skills necessary for effective policy analysis and development.

1 Year One

Theory and trends in public policy Compulsory
Policy in focus Compulsory
Researching political issues Compulsory
Policy lab research project Compulsory
Law and policy for social work Elective
Education policy and practice Elective
Service learning Elective
International politics of health Elective
Environmental citizenship Elective
Negotiating in international contexts Elective
Gender and security Elective
Global governance and international institutions Elective
Policy lab research project Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,736.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,736.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 514.00 - USD 1,472.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,900.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 7,734.00 - USD 12,083.00

Living cost estimates are based on Nottingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingArchitecture & Urban PlanningCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryEconomic Research & PolicyEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionReal Estate DevelopmentTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

HSBC

Why Study Public Policy MSc at Nottingham Trent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Nottingham Trent University 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 Public Policy MSc at Nottingham Trent University

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, you need to meet specific English test scores: TOEFL overall score of 79, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 62. Each test has individual listening, reading, speaking, and writing requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, lobbyists, project managers, or consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

In a climate of shrinking budgets, shifting priorities, and growing division, what makes a policy successful?

How do we ensure that every voice is heard — and that our public policies are relevant, inclusive, and impactful?

This course has been designed for a new generation of policymakers, analysts, and advocates. Guided by practitioners from the diverse worlds of government, grant-writing, project-management, youth outreach, gender politics, and international security, you’ll

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Policy MSc program has a September intake each year. It is available for both full-time and part-time study options.
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