Politics and Public Policy (MSc Econ)

How will I be taught?

Studying for a postgraduate degree is intensive and challenging and it is important that you take full advantage of the teaching that is provided in order to succeed. Attendance at classes and dissertation supervisions is compulsory; we will expect you to undertake self-directed study, be well prepared by completing the required reading, and participate fully in classes. 

Learning is primarily by means of small group sessions designed to enable you to analyse and critically evaluate major public policy issues and the concepts, theories and methods used in the analysis of public policy and politics.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is via a variety of coursework and unseen written examinations, accompanied by personalised feedback designed to enable you to improve your performance over the course of the programme. The forms of coursework assessment include essays, seminar presentations, class tests and book and article reviews.

Summative assessments count towards your degree. Your marks in these assessments count towards your formal progression from Stage One (taught modules) to Stage Two (the dissertation), and towards the determination of your final award. The dissertation comprises the Stage Two summative assessment.

How will I be supported?

We will support you in improving your study and research skills with dedicated classes at the beginning of each semester. 

All modules are supported by Learning Central, a virtual learning environment that is available on and off campus through which you will access a wide range of materials for your modules.

You will receive pastoral support through our personal tutor scheme and academic staff have dedicated office hours to meet with students to discuss any learning queries. 

We offer a programme of visiting speakers and guest lectures at which students are welcome. 

A designated Disability and Diversity Officer ensures that reasonable adjustments are made for students with disabilities.

The University has a range of services to support you, including the Careers Service, the Counselling Service, the Disability and Dyslexia Service, the Student Support Service and excellent libraries with specialist subject librarians and resource centres. The University also offers writing skills support for students whose first language is not English.

Feedback:

Feedback is given orally during seminars and you will receive written feedback on your summative coursework. Feedback will help you identify strengths and weaknesses in your learning, as well how you might improve your performance. Written feedback will be made available no later than four weeks from the submission of your assessment.

What skills will I practise and develop?

You are expected to assume a greater responsibility for your education as you undertake your postgraduate studies. Through the course of this programme, you will acquire and develop a range of valuable skills, both discipline specific and more generic employability skills. 

During the programme you will be able to extend your communication and presentation skills, both oral and written and develop collaborative skills through group problem solving. You will enhance your analytical skills, be able to develop a reasoned argument and reflect on your own learning by making use of constructive feedback. 

You will be encouraged to work independently and develop your research skills by seeking relevant materials from a variety of sources, evaluating this evidence to develop a reasoned argument. You will reflect upon empirical and theoretical issues and critically evaluate current research. Discussion and debate will hone logical skills and enable deeper insight into the subject matter.