Global Public Policy, MA/PGDip

This exciting programme seeks to understand how policy is formulated within this evolving and dynamic context by drawing on the core concepts of policy analysis and theories of policy change.

Discover a flexible curriculum designed to fuel your intellectual curiosity and career ambitions. Our diverse module options, including placement pathways, empower you to chart your own course.

Course Structure

Our dynamic programme equips you with advanced insights into policy-making across local and global contexts. Through six core modules, a customisable curriculum and a 12,000-word dissertation, you'll gain essential skills to address complex issues like migration and poverty, with options for practical experience through a placement module. This course will run over 12 months in full-time mode. However, the programme can also be undertaken on a part-time basis.

There are also two placement pathways:

• MA (12 months): Our dynamic programme equips with advanced insights into policy-making across local and global contexts. Through six core modules, a customisable curriculum and a 12,000-word dissertation, you'll gain essential skills to address complex issues like migration and poverty.
• MA with Integrated Placement (21 months): This programme includes three elements. Six taught modules (from the list below) are taken during the first year. In the second year, you will complete a 12,000-word dissertation on a social policy subject of your choice and undertake a 20-week work-based experience in a local public, private or third-sector organisation.
• PGDip with Integrated Placement (9 months): This programme combines four taught modules (from the list above) with an opportunity for an eight-week work-based placement in a local public, private or third-sector organisation. The modules are taken during the Autumn and Spring Terms, with the work placement starting in March and continuing until the end of the Summer Term in June.

Why study Global Public Policy at the University of Birmingham?

Our Global Public Policy Masters degree is taught by experts who contribute to a vibrant research culture. This means you’ll build a broad range of skills and experience, all in massive demand among employers. At Birmingham, we’re ranked 8th for Social Policy (Complete University Guide, 2025), with our specialist leading academics driving all of our teaching and research.

• Tailor the curriculum to match your own interests and career plans. Gain experience in the workplace with our optional pathways that incorporate a placement module.
• Study at the UK's most targeted university by the country’s leading graduate employers (Highfliers 2025)
• Engage critically with cutting-edge research on local and international policymaking.