MA Political Science - Governance and Public Policy Pathway (Research Route)

• Study at an internationally renowned public policy research centre, based in one of the UK’s top 5 universities for politics.
• Engage in unique opportunities with politicians and policy makers through Policy@Manchester.
• Benefit from placements with policy makers and organisations in and around Manchester.
• Develop vital skills for a career in research, or any related field.

Policy is complicated. Policy makers need to understand a web of normative, practical, domestic and international considerations. On our Political Science – Governance and Public Policy master’s programme, you’ll learn about key themes and concepts related to social policy formation, including:

• citizenship and participation
• policy making in a globalised world
• the relationship between the government and the governed
• the welfare state.

Via mandatory course units, you’ll be introduced to a range of research approaches, while developing your qualitative and quantitative skills.

You’ll also be able to tailor the programme to fit your interests, with optional course units covering an array of current and interesting topics.

Throughout the programme you’ll develop skills in critical inquiry, research design, creative thinking and problem-solving. At the point of completion, you’ll be well placed to undertake doctoral research or pursue a career in a great number of similar fields.

Full entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should meet the following language requirements:

• IELTS Academic test score of 7 overall, including 7 in writing with no further component score below 6.5
• TOEFL IBT 100 with 25 in writing and no further score below 22 in each section. TOEFL code for Manchester is 0757
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 76 overall, with 76 in writing and no further score below 70

Pre-Sessional English Courses

We will consider applicants who do not meet these scores but you may be required to complete a pre-sessional English language course at the University of Manchester prior to the start of the course.

To be considered for a pre-sessional English language course for this programme we require the following minimum IELTS (Academic) scores:

6 Week Pre-Sessional Course : IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.5 in writing and no more than one sub-skill of 6.0.

10 Week Pre-sessional Course : IELTS 6.0 overall with 6.0 or above in each sub-skill

If you have not yet completed your current academic study and are interested in studying a pre-sessional course, you must hold an IELTS for UKVI (Academic) test certificate to ensure that you are eligible for a separate visa for the English language course.

Career opportunities