Overview
Studying for a masters in Public Policy at Newcastle University will help you gain the analytical and practical skills to succeed in the world of policymaking, whether in government, for international organisations, the third sector and beyond. You’ll work with world-leading academics and policymakers at the cutting edge of public policy research. Helping you gain the expertise to shape real-world solutions to complex public problems and address questions, such as:
- What drives policymaking at local, regional, national, and global levels?
- How are impactful decisions shaped, and what ethical considerations guide them?
- What role does evidence-based decision-making play, and what data and skills do we need that informs this approach?
Studying our Public Policy MSc will position you at the forefront of emerging trends and innovations. You’ll gain a critical understanding of what is required to develop practical solutions that drive meaningful change. It will give you the knowledge and skills to tackle complex public policy challenges helping you:
- Develop creative problem-solving skills
- Create forward thinking solutions for the policy challenges of tomorrow
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the policy-making processes at local, national, and international levels
- Examine the impact of ethics, data, and evidence on policy decision-making
You’ll benefit from learning alongside world-leading academic staff in a dynamic research-led environment. Strong connections with policymakers within the UK and internationally mean we can bring real-world, contemporary case studies into the classroom and enable you to engage directly with policymakers.
This MSc blends theory and practice, giving you the skills to analyse, design, and assess public policies at local and global levels. You’ll master navigating the complex geopolitical, social, economic, and ethical factors that shape policy decisions. You’ll also gain the expertise needed to address real-world policy challenges in a fast-evolving global landscape.
Important information
We’ve highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.
Your course and study experience – disclaimers and terms and conditions
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.
View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.
What you’ll learn
The Public Policy MSc will help you gain a thorough understanding of how policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated across diverse settings from the local to the global. You will delve into key themes such as:
- Public Policy and Governance in Practice
- Ethics, Morality, and Philosophy in Public Policy
- Theories of International Relations, Globalisation and Geopolitics
- Political Economy, Development, and Global Justice
Modules
You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.
Course content changes
Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
Optional modules availability
Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
All students will take 180 credits worth of modules, which will include 120 credits of compulsory modules and choose a number of optional modules to a credit value of 60.
Optional modules taken may include those offered by another School in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, up to a maximum credit value of 20. The modules listed below may be selected if appropriate to your degree programme:
| External modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| LAW8230: Global Security Law | 20 |
| LAW8577: Law and Emerging Technologies | 20 |
| MPH8010: Public Health Protection | 10 |
How you’ll learn
The Public Policy MSc is research-led and delivered through interactive and engaging seminars and workshops. You are at the centre of these sessions and our team of expert academic staff will encourage you to deepen your understanding of key concepts through:
- active participation
- discussion
- collaboration with your peers
You will also be taught using a range of methods, including:
- 1-on-1 research supervision sessions
- Lab sessions
- Guided independent study
- Guest lectures from experienced policy makers
Your preparation, questions, and unique insights will be the driving force behind your learning experience. You will play an active role in shaping discussions and exploring ideas to ensure your journey is both personal and impactful.
This programme is well suited for anyone seeking to gain an advanced understanding of public policy, regardless of whether you have a background in the field or are exploring it for the first time.
Depending on your modules, you’ll be assessed through a combination of:
- Dissertation
- Essay
- Oral presentation
- Practical lab report
- Portfolio
- Report
- Research paper
- Written exercise
Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You’ll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:
- module handbooks
- course materials
- groups
- course announcements and notifications
- written feedback
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:
- peers
- academics
- personal tutors
- our University Student Services Team
- student representatives
You’ll also be assigned an academic member of staff. They will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.
Dr Brian Boyle – Policy, political communication, media quantitative and computational methods
Professor Alistair Clark – Public policy, electoral administration, local government, mixed methods
Dr Marina Duque – Public policy, emerging powers, Brazil, quantitative methods
Professor Stephen Elstub – Public policy-making, deliberation, democratic innovation, qualitative methods
Dr Johannes Kneiss – Public health, theories of justice, political theory
Dr Maarja Lühiste – Political institutions, leadership, gender, quantitative and computational methods
Professor Ruth McAreavey – Governance, migration and research ethics
Professor Katharine Rietig – International public policy, UN, climate change, qualitative methods
Dr Andrew Walton – Theory and ethics of public policy, social justice
Dr Katharine A. M. Wright – International public policy, NATO, women, peace and security agenda, qualitative methods
Professor Anthony Zito – Public policy, European Union, climate change
Your development
You will develop a range of professional, research and practical skills that are highly valued in today’s policy landscape.
Professional skills
This course will enable you to master the art of communicating effectively with diverse audiences. It will give you the skills to present well-reasoned, informed arguments both in writing and through presentations. Hands-on projects and seminar tasks, will allow you to sharpen your teamwork and collaboration skills, preparing you to succeed in the workplace.
Practical skills
You’ll engage in hands-on exercises that mirror real-world policy analysis. It will give you the critical and data skills to assess, evaluate, and recommend effective public policies. You will develop practical expertise in writing policy evaluations and briefings, using real data to create evidence-based recommendations.
Research skills
By completing self-designed research papers and an MSc dissertation, you will develop the skills to synthesise information from diverse primary and secondary sources, enhancing your ability to conduct and communicate independent research.
Your future
Further study
This course equips you with the essential skills to pursue a research degree in Public Policy or related fields, providing a solid foundation for those looking to deepen their academic expertise and contribute to cutting-edge research.
Careers and graduate destinations
After completing this course you’ll graduate with an enhanced knowledge of the public policy process. You’ll have developed transferable skills in research and analysis that will help you to succeed in a range of organisations in the public, private or third sector.
Our Public Policy MSc will prepare you for a career in any field where advanced policy expertise is essential.
Some of these roles may include:
- Civil Servant
- Policy Advisor
- Policy Analyst
- NGO or Non-Profit Manager
- Researcher
Our Careers Service
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Quality and ranking
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- Global Top 130 University – QS World University Rankings 2025
- Global Top 170 University – Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
- Top 125 for Social Sciences – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- Top 150 for Politics and International Studies – QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
- Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK
Facilities
You will be based in the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology’s Henry Daysh Building, where you will benefit from a dedicated social/study space nestled between seminar rooms and your professors’ offices.
Entry requirements
The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Academic entry requirements
A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent. Degrees from all disciplines will be considered.
We will also consider your application on an individual basis if you have lower or non-standard qualifications and relevant professional experience.
