Public Policy MRes

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

The Public Policy MRes at Queen Mary University of London offers a research-focused approach to understanding how public policy is developed, evaluated, and implemented. It is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge with practical research skills and engage with real-world policy challenges in both national and international contexts.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Core Study & Research Skills)
In the first year, students build the methodological and analytical foundation necessary for advanced policy research. Courses such as Introduction to Social Science 1: Epistemology, Research Design, and Qualitative Methods, and Introduction to Social Science 2: Quantitative Methods and Data, equip students to formulate research questions, apply qualitative and quantitative techniques, and handle data analysis, preparing them for independent research projects.

Focus Areas

Comparative policy analysis, public administration theory, research methods (qualitative and quantitative), policy delivery and evaluation, independent dissertation research

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will have advanced analytical skills in public policy, practical research expertise at a near-PhD level, proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, and the ability to evaluate and contribute to policy debates in a variety of contexts

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MRes is structured as pre-doctoral research training approved for ESRC 1+3 PhD funding pathways, making it an excellent preparation for research careers or further academic study

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Queen Mary University of London is a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and is recognized for high-quality research. It is ranked around 110th globally in the 2026 QS World University Rankings, reflecting strong academic standards and employability outcomes

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Public Policy MRes, you’ll gain practical skills that go well beyond lectures and essays. You’ll learn how to apply research methods in real-world contexts, analyze data using industry-standard tools like R, and develop the ability to evaluate policy through independent projects and group discussions. The programme also connects you with current policy debates through guest speakers, practitioner-led sessions, and events that bring the real world directly into your studies, helping you build professional confidence and experience.

Some of the key experiential learning opportunities and facilities include:

Access to the Mile End Institute, a major policy centre that hosts events, talks, and discussions connecting students with policymakers and practitioners, offering opportunities to engage with current policy debates.
Dedicated postgraduate facilities including the Graduate Centre, with purpose-built study spaces, a 200-seat lecture theatre, and a rooftop common room designed for collaborative work and study.
Use of a media suite with editing software, supporting research presentations and digital analysis skills essential for policy work.
Interactive seminars and group discussions that enhance communication and teamwork skills, including structured debates and peer feedback.
Independent research experience through the 12,000-word dissertation project, where you design, conduct, and present your own policy research under expert supervision, mirroring real research and consultancy practices.
Proximity to London’s policy ecosystem, including Westminster, Whitehall, and major think tanks, providing additional opportunities to connect theory to practice and network with professionals

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Public Policy MRes at Queen Mary University of London are well-prepared for careers that require strong analytical skills, research expertise, and a deep understanding of policy processes. Many alumni move into roles in government departments, policy analysis, research organisations, or international non-profits:

Typical roles include Policy Analyst, Research Officer, Public Affairs Consultant, and Government Advisor, where you can apply evidence-based evaluation and policy design skills.
During your studies, you have access to Queen Mary Careers and Enterprise, which provides one-to-one career guidance, CV and application support, interview preparation, and connections to part-time work, internships, and graduate opportunities.
Careers Consultants and Student Employability Advisors are available from the start of your programme and for up to two years after graduation, helping you refine your career goals and access workshops, employer events, and networking opportunities.
Queen Mary graduates enjoy strong outcomes, with around 93% of postgraduates in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, many in highly skilled and relevant roles.
Being part of a Russell Group university also adds long-term value, as employers recognise the quality of the research-led training and analytical skills developed through this programme.

Further Academic Progression:
If you are considering further study, the Public Policy MRes is an excellent pathway to doctoral research. The programme is structured as pre-doctoral training and is approved for ESRC 1+3 PhD funding, making it particularly suitable for students interested in pursuing an MPhil or PhD in public policy, political science, or related social sciences.