MSc Econ Politics and Public Policy
**Funding opportunities available**
This degree programme is designed to give you advanced skills in political and policy research that you can use in your subsequent career. This distinctive research orientation is reflected in the attention given to preparing for and writing a dissertation. The programme focuses in particular on the analysis of political parties, public opinion and public policy. Graduates with Masters degrees in Politics find jobs not only in national and sub-national government but also in the private and voluntary sectors, both of which need staff who know how to deal with government. The stress on research skills means that graduates are also well-placed to undertake PhDs.
Programme
- The first semester programme consists of modules on political analysis and research methods. These are followed in the second semester by modules designed to prepare you for the dissertation and develop the skills in political analysis introduced in the first semester. The dissertation is researched and written over the summer under the guidance of an expert in the field.
Structure
- The period of study is twelve months (October to September). The taught element of the course takes place over two semesters (October to June). The dissertation is completed during the summer months and submitted in September. The degree can also be taken over two years as part-time study.
- The MSc Econ Politics and Public Policy handbook has more detailed information on the degree structure, requirements and courses offered.
Assessment
- Essays, unseen written examinations, and a dissertation
Teaching
- The School appears in the 1st quartile of all major indicators in the UK's Research Assessment Exercise, including 2nd of 27 for Research Power
Compulsory modules
- The Public, Parties and Democracy Public opinion, the public’s role in politics, political parties, electoral systems and party systems.
- Public Policy Survey of the main contemporary approaches to policy analysis.
- Research Methods: Approaches to Knowledge Survey of the main approaches to research used by social scientists today.
- Governing and Public Policy in Britain Focuses on the institutional dynamics of policy making and implementation, with case studies.
Option modules
- Public Opinion Analyses the nature of public opinion and how to design and interpret opinion polls.
- Global Climate Governance In depth analysis of the politics of climate policy at national and international level.
- Parties and Party Systems Examines competitive multi-party systems and the crisis of party democracy.
- Social Science Research Design Focuses on how scientific research design can be used in political research.
- Up to one module from other Masters courses in the School
Dissertation
- This component of the course, which comprises a third of the overall assessment, gives you an opportunity to undertake research in an area of politics and public policy of particular interest to you. The specific topic is chosen by you, subject to the approval of course staff, and the research and writing is carried out under the supervision of an expert in the field. The maximum word length is 20,000 words.
Duration
- One year full-time
- Two years part-time
Starting date
- There is one intake each year in late September
Fees and support
Accommodation
- High quality and affordable university postgraduate accommodation within walking distance of the School
- High-speed internet access and en-suite facilities
Living expenses
- Cardiff: ‘one of the cheapest and safest cities in the UK’ (Sunday Times University Guide 2011)
- For 2011-12 the average student living expenses for the year, including the cost of accommodation, food, books, and other items, is expected to be approximately £8,400
Entry requirements
- Successful applicants will normally possess an initial degree in Politics, or a cognate subject with a strong Politics component, awarded by a recognised institution, at 2(i) level or above
- There are English language requirements for those whose first language is not English. The equivalent of 7 in IELTS including 6 in each element and 6.5 in writing must be obtained, or equivalent in TOEFL
When to apply
- Early application is strongly recommended
- Later applications will be considered, but international students must bear in mind the time needed to obtain a visa
How to apply
- Applications can either be made online or by using paper forms
- Supporting documentation including references will be required