Master of Public Policy

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Sharjah

Program Overview

The Master of Public Policy at the University of Sharjah equips you with advanced knowledge and practical skills to design, analyze, implement, and evaluate impactful public policies that address complex societal challenges. This program is ideal for aspiring policy professionals, analysts, and leaders who want to drive meaningful change in government, NGOs, or international organizations through evidence-based decision-making and strategic policy design.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
In the first year, you will build a solid foundation in the core principles and analytical tools essential for public policy practice. Courses such as Advanced Introduction to Public Policy: Issues, Concepts, Methods and Solutions will explore key theories, policy cycles, and real-world examples. You will also study Micro- and Macro-economics for Public Policy Design to understand the economic context of policies, and Advanced Policy Analysis and Data Analytics to develop skills in interpreting data and modeling policy scenarios.

Second Year
The second year focuses on deepening expertise and applying your knowledge. Advanced Research Methods for Public Policy prepares you to design rigorous policy research and lays the groundwork for your thesis, while Ethics, Law and Public Policy examines ethical dilemmas and legal frameworks in policymaking. The Experiential Learning Module (Field Practicum with a Client) allows you to work on a real policy project with an organization and produce a capstone policy brief. Electives such as Comparative Public Policy, Environmental, Climate, and Energy Policy, or UAE Health Policy let you specialize according to your interests.

Focus Areas

Public policy design and evaluation, policy analysis and data analytics, research methodology, ethics and law in policymaking, experiential policy practicum, electives in areas like environmental, health, gender, urban, and economic policy.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will have a strong understanding of public policy theories and practices, advanced analytical and research skills, the ability to solve complex policy challenges using evidence and data, and the confidence to contribute meaningfully to governance, policy innovation, and societal wellbeing.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program meets the University of Sharjah’s graduate standards and prepares students for professional careers in public, private, and non-governmental sectors as policy analysts, advisors, researchers, or leaders. It also positions students for further doctoral study if desired.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Sharjah is a well-established institution in the UAE, known for graduate programs that equip students with practical and analytical skills valued by employers locally and regionally. Its degrees are respected across government, NGO, and international policy fields in the Middle East and beyond.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Master of Public Policy at the University of Sharjah, experiential learning is at the core of the program, allowing you to put theory into action. Through the Experiential Learning Module (Field Practicum with a Client) in your second year, you will work directly with a real organization on a policy challenge, analyzing data, engaging stakeholders, and developing solutions that have real-world impact. The program provides strong support for hands-on learning, including access to the University’s library system, research databases, and guidance from experienced faculty. The College of Public Policy also connects students with governmental agencies and institutions, ensuring that learning is closely linked to professional public sector environments.

Transitioning from discussion to practical involvement, experiential learning includes:

Field Practicum with a Client: a capstone module where you immerse yourself in a real policy project with an external partner, applying your skills to develop and present a comprehensive policy brief.
Collaborative Projects: work alongside peers and faculty on policy research, analysis, and evaluation, bridging classroom knowledge with real public policy challenges.
Academic Library and Research Tools: access to the University of Sharjah’s libraries and digital databases, supporting evidence-based research and policy formulation.
Engagement with External Stakeholders: interact with government bodies, NGOs, or community organizations through your practicum or project work, connecting theoretical study with real-world public sector practice.

The University of Sharjah provides facilities such as its libraries, digital collections, and research resources to support your policy research and thesis work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Public Policy at the University of Sharjah are well-equipped to make a real impact in research, government, and policy practice. They leave the program with advanced analytical and decision-making skills and are ready to take on roles that design, evaluate, and lead policy initiatives. Typical career paths include public policy analyst, government advisor, program manager in NGOs or international organizations, and policy consultant across sectors:

Career & Professional Development Support: The University’s Career and Professional Development team provides personalized guidance, helping students explore career paths, prepare resumes, and connect with employers who value policy expertise.
Industry Partnerships: The College of Public Policy collaborates with governmental agencies and international organizations, offering students exposure to real policy environments and opportunities to build professional networks.
Employment Preparation: Workshops, job fairs, and networking events help students transition confidently from study to work, ensuring readiness for the job market.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: A master’s degree from the University of Sharjah signals advanced expertise in public policy and prepares graduates for leadership roles and specialized positions in government, NGOs, and private sector policy units.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are ready for careers in the public, private, and non-governmental sectors, and also have the foundation for further academic study, including doctoral programs in public policy or related fields.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this master’s degree, students can pursue a doctoral degree in Public Policy or Governance, deepen their specialization through related postgraduate diplomas, or engage in research fellowships. These pathways expand expertise and open doors to careers in academia, think tanks, or high-level advisory roles.