Go to London School of Economics and Political Science

MPA in Data Science for Public Policy

London School of Economics and Political Science

United Kingdom, London

University RankQS Ranking

Apply Now!

Go to Official Website

Home/United Kingdom/London /London School of Economics and Political Science/MPA in Data Science for Public Policy

London School of Economics and Political Science

United Kingdom , London

Key Facts

Program Level

Master by Course Work

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

M1DS

Campuses

Houghton Street

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 21 month(s)

Tuition Fee

GBP 34,100 / year

Next Intake September-2026

MPA in Data Science for Public Policy

About

Overview

Introduction

Introduction

Data-driven insights are increasingly important in policymaking and analysis. This two-year programme will equip you with the technical, analytical and quantitative skills to address policy challenges in an increasingly data-driven world. The curriculum is highly interdisciplinary, and you’ll draw on tools and frameworks from political science, economics, econometrics and data science.

You’ll kick off with a pre-sessional coding boot camp, learning Python programming and refreshing your knowledge of key mathematical concepts. Subsequent core and optional courses build on these skills and apply them to public policy.

The first year provides rigorous training in data science, econometrics, quantitative tools and political science for public policy. In Year 2, you’ll deepen your knowledge in specific policy or data science domains.

You’ll also complete a six-month Capstone project – applying your quantitative, qualitative and coding skills to work on a real-world policy problem for an external client. This practical experience provides excellent preparation for a career in the sought after intersection of data science and policymaking.

By the time you graduate, you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of technical, policy, strategy and leadership roles in government, NGOs and the private sector.

Disciplines

School of Public Policy

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Graduate entry requirements for applicants from Saudi Arabia Taught master's programmes To be considered for admission to a taught master's programme (upper second class equivalent), we would normally require a bachelor's degree after at least four years of study with grades of 80 per cent, 3.3/4, 4.0/5, or an overall B, if awarded since 2004. If awarded prior to 2004, we require the master's with similar grades. To be considered for admission to a taught master's programme (first-class equivalent), we would normally require a bachelor's degree after at least four years of study with grades of 90 per cent, 3.75/4, 4.7/5, A or very good, if awarded since 2004. If awarded prior to 2004, we require the master's with similar grades. Research programmes (MPhil/MRes/PhD) To be considered for admission to a research programme, we would normally require a master’s degree if awarded after 2004 and expect grades of 85 per cent.

English Program Requirements

English language requirements

The English language requirement for this programme is Higher. Read more about our English language requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this does not guarantee you an offer of a place.

However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out from other students.

Career

At the heart of the SPP is an emphasis on helping our students shape and enhance their future careers in policy-related fields. SPP students come to LSE from very diverse professional backgrounds, and it is our priority to support each of you as you move to the next stage of your career.

LSE Careers offers students a programme of support throughout their studies and after graduation.

In particular, students at LSE SPP have access to:

one-to-one coaching in all aspects of career planning and professional development careers discussions with the School of Public Policy's Careers Consultant
a weekly SPP Careers newsletter, compiled by a student employee, with relevant short-term and long-term opportunities
Q&A events with alumni working in particular sectors of interest
SPP-only discussions to employers including through visits to offices to discuss career options and learn about different employment sectors
access to LSE Careerhub, listing hundreds of opportunities, from short-term volunteering and internships to full-time positions for experienced professionals
Careers Impact Sessions which takes place early in year 1, followed by a networking evening with employers in relevant sectors
specialist careers seminars run by LSE Careers, including sessions on CVs and cover letters, career management, networking, interviews and advice specific to particular employment sectors

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year. LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the support available.

SPP Professional Skills Accelerator

The SPP also offers an extensive and tailored programme of Professional Skills for Public Policy which is especially designed to complement the skills and insights that you gain as part of your programme curriculum and equip you with the necessary skills for the next step in your career.

You'll benefit from a series of training workshops with experienced practitioners and experts in key areas of professional development such as leadership, negotiation and persuasive communication.

Fee Information

At LSE, your tuition fees, and eligibility for any financial support, will depend on whether you’re classified as a home or overseas student (known as your fee status). We assess your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department for Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Tuition Fee

GBP 34,100

Application Fee

GBP