Welsh Government and Politics (MA)

Devolution has transformed Welsh politics and government. Join this innovative programme and explore the devolved institutions in their wider constitutional, political and policy contexts.

The changing political and legal landscape in Wales poses exciting and challenging questions for those with an academic or professional interest in politics and policy.

The Welsh Government and Politics MA is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of the institutions and practices of governance in post-devolution Wales. In addition to focusing on politics and governance in Wales, the course places developments in Wales in a broader UK context, providing an overview of relationships between the various levels of governance.

Taught by leading experts in Welsh politics and government from the renowned Wales Governance Centre, the programme also benefits from the close links that exist between Cardiff University and the institutions of devolved government in Wales.

You’ll gain an informed insight into, and understanding of, the emerging Welsh polity, a polity based on distinctive historical and cultural factors, a fast-evolving constitutional dispensation, new policy-making processes, and still developing civil society capacity.

However, the relevance of the programme is not confined to Wales. Issues relating to shared sovereignty and multi-level governance are central to contemporary political debates and the Welsh context provides a fascinating case study of broader trends in European and global governance.

Career prospects

This programme offers ideal preparation for those seeking a career in and around the institutions of devolved governance in Wales. But, in addition, by ensuring an excellent understanding of government and policymaking in the context of multi-level governance, the degree opens the way for careers in a wide range of fields in and around the local, Welsh, UK, EU and international levels within the public, private and third sectors. The emphasis on research skills and independent study also means that you’ll be well-placed to continue your academic studies and undertake a PhD.