Enter OTP
The MSc Politics and Public Policy is designed to develop your understanding of how public policy is made, evaluated, and implemented in contemporary UK and global contexts, preparing you for impactful roles in government, civil society and international organisations. You’ll explore how key actors shape political agendas and policy outcomes, making this degree ideal for students with interests in governance, policy analysis, political communication or social change.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Full-time, or first year if part-time)
In your opening year, you’ll build a strong foundation in public policy theory and practice with core modules such as Approaches to Public Policy that introduce the main frameworks and theories used to understand the policy process. You’ll also begin optional courses like Advanced Qualitative Methods in Social Science or Policy Evaluation, giving you hands-on experience with research methods and analytical tools used to assess real-world policies. As this year ends, you’ll choose further optional courses like US Foreign Policy and Diplomacy or The Political Psychology of Climate Change, broadening your perspective on global and contemporary issues.
Dissertation / Final Research Project
In your dissertation phase, you’ll synthesize what you’ve learned by conducting an in-depth piece of independent research on a policy topic that matches your interests. This culminates your study, showcasing your ability to analyse, critically evaluate and communicate advanced policy analysis.
Focus areas: public policy frameworks, policy analysis methods, political actors and agenda-setting, contemporary global issues.
Learning outcomes: ability to analyse and evaluate public policy processes, advanced research skills, critical thinking in political contexts, effective policy communication.
Professional alignment (accreditation): While not professionally accredited, this degree equips you with highly transferable analytical and policy skills valued in government and international institutions.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Aberdeen has strong graduate prospects and recognised subject strengths in Politics and related social sciences (Guardian and Complete University Guide).
At the University of Aberdeen, the MSc Politics and Public Policy goes beyond theory by helping you build the practical research and analytical skills needed for real policy work. Throughout the programme, you will work with current policy debates, apply research methods used by professional analysts, and benefit from the University’s strong research culture in politics and social science. Learning is closely connected to staff expertise and supported by dedicated academic and digital resources, ensuring you graduate with hands-on experience relevant to policy-focused careers:
Research-led teaching delivered by academics actively involved in public policy, governance, and political research
Advanced policy analysis and evaluation training through modules such as Approaches to Public Policy and Policy Evaluation
Independent dissertation project, allowing you to conduct in-depth research on a policy issue of your choice with academic supervision
Quantitative and qualitative research skills development, including training in data analysis and social science research methods
University of Aberdeen Library and Special Collections, providing extensive access to political datasets, journals, government publications, and policy reports
Digital learning tools and databases supporting policy research, academic writing, and evidence-based analysis
Opportunities for seminars, guest lectures, and research events, exposing students to real-world policy perspectives and current political challenges
Graduates of the MSc Politics and Public Policy are well prepared for careers where policy insight, critical thinking, and analytical skills are essential. The programme equips students to understand how policies are designed and implemented, making them strong candidates for roles across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Typical career paths include roles such as Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Officer, Government Researcher, Political Consultant, and related policy-focused positions:
Careers and Employability Service at the University of Aberdeen, offering personalised career guidance, CV support, interview preparation, and employer networking
Strong graduate outcomes, with alumni progressing into government departments, think tanks, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, and consultancy roles
Transferable skills valued by employers, including policy evaluation, research design, critical analysis, and professional communication
Links to research centres and policy-related academic networks, strengthening employability and professional credibility
Long-term academic and professional value, with advanced policy training recognised across public administration, international development, and governance-related fields
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of this programme are well positioned to continue into PhD or doctoral research in Politics, Public Policy, International Relations, or related social science disciplines, either at the University of Aberdeen or other leading universities. The strong research and dissertation component also supports progression into specialised postgraduate study or research-led careers in policy analysis and political science.
Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:2 standard from a recognised university or body in International Relations, Politics, Economics, Management, Business Studies, Law, Geography, History or cognate subject deemed appropriate by the School of Social Science.IELTS OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21TOEFL OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21Two reference letters required, one from university discussing academic abilityApplicants without required qualification may be admitted with alternative qualification or approved work experienceUniversity of Aberdeen graduates are eligible for the Alumni Postgraduate ScholarshipSelf-funded international students receive the Aberdeen Global ScholarshipUSA: Bachelor’s degree (unweighted GPA: 3.0+) from an accredited university or college in a relevant subjectIndia: For programmes requiring a UK 2.2 degree, a minimum of 60% from State and Central Universities or 65% from Private and Deemed Universities is normally required. In recognition of stricter marking systems, 55% may be accepted from institutions such as the University of Mumbai, University of Calcutta, University of Delhi, as well as from IITs and IIMs.China: A score of 65% is considered equivalent to a UK 2:2 and a UK third Class.Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Aberdeen
 in Europe1779357712.webp)
