MSc Science and Technology Policy

The MSc Science and Technology Policy (with a professional placement year) at the University of Sussex focuses on how science, technology, and innovation shape public policy, business decisions, and society. The course helps students understand how governments, organisations, and institutions make decisions about science and technology. Students study how evidence is used in policy making and how new technologies affect health, the environment, security, and economic growth. The programme draws on real case studies from around the world and helps students build strong skills in policy analysis, research, and communication. Students learn how to assess risks, benefits, and impacts of scientific and technological change. 

The MSc Science and Technology Policy (with a professional placement year) at the University of Sussex is taught by experts from the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU), which is internationally recognised for research in science, technology, and innovation policy. This MSc is studied full-time over two years, with the second year spent on a professional placement. The placement year gives students the chance to work in a professional environment related to science and technology policy. Placements may be in the UK or overseas and usually last several months. Learning takes place through lectures, seminars, workshops, and guided independent study. Students take part in discussions, group work, and policy simulations. Assessment methods include essays, policy briefs, reports, presentations, and research projects. During the placement year, students complete reflective and work-based assessments that show how academic learning links to professional practice.