Swansea University

Politics, Governance and Public Policy, MA

Swansea UniversitySingleton Park Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

The 21st century presents profound challenges and transformative opportunities; from climate breakdown and social instability to democratic backsliding and rising inequality, the political landscape is in flux. Yet amid this turbulence, new visions of governance, politics, and public policy are emerging, offering fresh pathways to shape a more equitable and sustainable future. The MA in Politics, Governance and Public Policy at Swansea University will equip you with the intellectual tools, analytical skills, and policy insight to navigate and influence this complex terrain.

Whether you're seeking to understand the forces reshaping political institutions, or aiming to contribute to effective policymaking, this programme offers a rigorous and dynamic foundation. You will build expertise in critical policy analysis, foster deep knowledge of political institutions, governance frameworks, and policy-making processes, and develop sound strategic decision-making and communication skills, with the ability to communicate policy ideas and findings clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences. The course can be studied full-time over one year, or part-time over two or three years.

We also offer an Extended MA, taught over two years full time or four years part-time, where you will spend a period of your studies abroad at our partner US institution, the Bush School of Government and Public Service.

Key highlights

  • Builds expertise in critical policy analysis and policy-making processes
  • In-depth study of political institutions and governance frameworks
  • Develops strategic decision-making and persuasive policy communication skills
  • Explores climate breakdown, democratic backsliding and rising inequality
  • Extended MA option includes study at the Bush School of Government

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:2 — 2:2

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries

    First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.

  • Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)

    The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.

Careers this course leads to

  • Policy Analyst
  • Policy Officer
  • Public Affairs Officer
  • Civil Servant
  • Political Researcher
  • Government Relations Adviser

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,700 per year | International: £21,250 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Swansea University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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