About Public Policy Research Mres in University of Glasgow

This programme provides you with an excellent grounding in social science research methods and theory and in contemporary public policy analytical processes. It is ideally suited for those wishing to undertake a PhD or to work in public/third or private sector organisations.

• Studying public policy theory and practice within the urban setting of Glasgow allows for direct engagement with many of the most pressing public policy problems of our time and with the types of solutions being developed to combat these.

• This programme is recognised by the Scottish Graduate School which oversees the allocation of ESRC studentships.

• By the end of the programme you will leave equipped with a secure grounding in social science research theory, will have developed transferable skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods, and will have demonstrated grounded knowledge and understanding of specialist areas of public policy.
• An optional field trip to London will provide you with an insight into the complex socio-economic dynamics of city building and design through visits to high profile real estate, planning and regeneration projects. You will have the opportunity to both meet and speak with senior industry professionals and policy-makers involved in the delivery of major urban developments. Past trips have included visits to The Shard, Olympic Park, Crossrail, Battersea Power Station

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

You will take five core courses and one optional course, and complete a dissertation. Teaching is delivered through lectures and seminars, but may also include lab work, input from policy/practice experts and, in some case, UK field trips.

Core courses

• EVIDENCE, EVALUATION AND POLICY
• QUALITATIVE METHODS
• QUANTITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS
• RESEARCH DESIGN
• UNDERSTANDING PUBLIC POLICY

Optional courses may include

• APPLIED QUALITATIVE METHODS
• INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL THEORY FOR RESEARCHERS

Additional courses from the School of Social & Political Science or College of Social Sciences may be chosen, as approved by the programme director.

Programme alteration or discontinuation
The University of Glasgow endeavours to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw or alter a programme. 

CAREER PROSPECTS

The programme provides a strong foundation for advanced research in public policy, both in the context of careers in the public and voluntary sectors, and especially of further studies to PhD level. You will have fully met the research training requirements of the UK Economic and Social Research Council and the Social Sciences Graduate School for doctoral students. 

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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Honours degree or non-UK equivalent in a relevant social science or humanities subject. Applicants who do not meet these requirements but with professional experience may be considered.

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training)

• 6.5 with no sub-test under 6.0. 
• Tests must have been taken within 4 years 5 months of start date. Combined scores from two tests taken within 6 months of each other can be considered.

Common equivalent English language qualifications

All stated English tests are acceptable for admission to this programme:

TOEFL (ib, my best or athome)

• 90 with minimum R 20, L 19, S 19, W 23. 
• Tests must have been taken within 4 years 5 months of start date. Combined scores from two tests taken within 6 months of each other can be considered.

PTE (Academic)

• 60 with minimum 59 in all sub-tests.
• Tests must have been taken within 4 years 5 months of start date. Combined scores from two tests taken within 6 months of each other can be considered.

University of Glasgow Highlights

University of Glasgow Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance will also include any additional costs a foreign student may have, such as living expenses while studying in the UK in addition to tuition fees.

University of Glasgow Fees

Tuition fees for some of the popular programs are as follows:

Cost of Living at University of Glasgow

Other costs involved include rent or on-campus accommodation fees, expenses on books and material, and other lifestyle choices