Entry requirements
We are looking for graduates with a 2:1 or above in their first degree in a related discipline (social sciences or humanities). While we normally only accept applicants who meet this criteria, if you have a high 2:2 or equivalent, are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.
Entry requirements for international students
English language requirements
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.
Course content
You will explore a range of disciplines, including political science, sociology, economics, law, public management, criminology, development and conflict and security studies. Topics include the ‘public’ aspect of the policy process (focusing on public ownership, funding and regulation) and the policy cycle approach (development, formulation, implementation and analysis/evaluation).
We will introduce you to a range of key concepts such as the theory of markets, failures, externalities and public goods. To support you in this, you will learn qualitative and quantitative research methods providing you with the tools necessary to understand processes, to analyse important policy issues and assess policy outcomes.
The dissertation provides an opportunity to develop your academic skills and complete extended research in your chosen policy area. You’ll also choose from an array of optional modules from across the social sciences enabling you to tailor your programme according to your academic and career interests.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Teaching and research
Teaching is research-led, ensuring that what you learn will be cutting edge and at the heart of contemporary public policy methods and debate. Teaching methods typically include:
- Academic seminars
- Presentations, simulations and class discussions
- Small group work
- Guided reading and teacher supported analysis and reflection
- Digitally enhanced learning support including electronic resources and interactive learning tools
Teaching applies learning to real-world challenges and operating in a complex problem space. You will have the opportunity to practice how your learning is engaged within wider social, economic, and policy debates. Its strengths include Politics expertise in both environmental policy and behavioural public policy and administration research, and citizens, the state and technology.
Assessments
Assessments will extend beyond well-established essays to include the creation of policy briefings, preparation and delivery of policy plans and reflective learning logs – opportunities will be given for the creative use of qualitative and quantitative data content in reflective blogs as appropriate to the issues addressed. The dissertation will allow you to focus on specific interests from your research or employment-oriented interests.
Research informed teaching
You will benefit from the latest research conducted by world-leading scholars through our research-led teaching. Relevant activities and events include those run by the Exeter Public Policy Group, the Policy@Exeter initiative, Centre for Elections, Media and Parties, Centre for Political Thought, Centre for Advanced International Studies, Centre for European Governance, the Security and Strategy Institute and the Exeter Q-Step Centre.
Research
Students can take advantage of our seminar series and its long-running and highly successful annual postgraduate conference which brings together researchers from across all humanities and social sciences disciplines.
Our research is funded by leading research councils and is used by governments and networks around the world.
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