Program Overview
The MA/PGDip Global Public Policy program at the University of Birmingham equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of modern policymaking. It offers core modules focusing on theories, institutions, and research methods, along with optional modules spanning various policy domains. Students can choose a placement pathway for practical experience and pursue careers in local, regional, or global policymaking institutions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MA/PGDip Global Public Policy program at the University of Birmingham is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and navigate the complexities of policymaking in the 21st century. It also explores the social, political, economic, and historical contexts in which policy is formulated and the ways that power influences policy formulation. The program emphasizes the evolving and dynamic nature of policymaking, acknowledging the challenges posed by devolution, supranational governance, and the increasing transnational nature of social issues. It aims to equip students with the analytical skills needed to examine and evaluate policy outcomes, alongside a broader range of social research methods required to research substantive policy issues.
Outline:
The MA Global Public Policy program is a 12-month program with core modules and optional modules. The Postgraduate Diploma Global Public Policy is a 9-month program with four taught modules and an optional eight-week work-based placement.
Core Modules:
- Policy Futures: Theories and Concepts in International Policymaking (20 credits): This module explores the theoretical frameworks and concepts that underpin international policymaking, examining the evolution of policy analysis and theories of policy change.
- Global Public Policy Institutions and Networks (20 credits): This module delves into the architecture of policymaking institutions at local, regional, and supranational levels, analyzing the roles of different actors and networks in shaping policy outcomes.
- Dissertation (60 credits): Students undertake an independent research project, culminating in a 12,000-word dissertation on a social policy subject of their choice.
Optional Modules:
- Globalisation, International Migration and Citizenship (20 credits)
- Migration, Superdiversity, Policy and Practice (20 credits)
- Third Sector in Social Policy (20 credits)
- Crime and Social Harm (20 credits)
- Poverty, Wealth and Inequality (20 credits)
- Applied Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis (20 credits)
- Sociology of Race and Racism (20 credits)
- Policy Evaluation (20 credits)
- Philosophies of Welfare: creating new societies?
- (20 credits)
- Transforming Identities (20 credits)
- Transforming Societies (20 credits)
- Climate Justice and Social Policy (20 credits)
- Crime and Justice in a Globalised World (20 credits)
Placement Pathway:
The MA Global Public Policy (with Integrated Placement) is a 21-month program that includes six taught modules, a 12,000-word dissertation, and a 20-week work-based experience in a local public, private, or third sector organization. The Postgraduate Diploma Global Public Policy (with Integrated Placement) is a 9-month program that combines four taught modules with an eight-week work-based placement in a local public, private, or third sector organization.
Assessment:
The program is assessed through a variety of coursework, including traditional essays, policy reports, and dissertations. Two modules utilize written examinations as a mode of assessment. Formative assessments are offered across core modules to provide feedback and support student development.
Teaching:
Teaching and learning take place through a variety of methods, including traditional lectures, interactive lectures, small group seminars, and computer lab-based sessions. The program also incorporates field trips to Birmingham City Council and the Houses of Parliament, providing students with real-world experiences.
Careers:
The program is designed for those who intend to pursue a range of policy-related careers within local, regional, or global policymaking institutions. Graduates are equipped to work across a number of policy domains, including:
- Local government
- Regional government
- National government
- International organizations
- Non-governmental organizations
- Research institutions
- Policy consulting
Other:
The Department of Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology at the University of Birmingham is an internationally leading center of research, drawing together academic expertise in theory, empirical research, and policy. The department has over 50 academic staff who contribute to a vibrant research culture and host a range of external speakers and lunchtime seminars. Students have access to a dedicated study space located in the department.
