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.
While studying computer science, I became fascinated by the gaps in systems, not how to build them, but who they serve and who they leave behind. I wanted to understand how policy, governance, and data can create more inclusive public services. This programme allows me to combine analytical thinking with social impact, exploring how we can design policies that truly address inequality and improve lives.
Join our mailing list Sign up to our mailing list to stay up to date with our latest events, scholarships and subject news.
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.
There are also two placement pathways:
MA Global Public Policy 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 Global Public Policy (with Integrated Placement) 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.
Postgraduate Diploma Global Public Policy (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.
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.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
For entry onto this programme, applicants must have an undergraduate degree with a classification of at least a high 2:2 (57% or above). For applicants with non-UK qualifications, we will apply an equivalent assessment to ensure that your academic background meets the required standard.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.