University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous social science methods with applied policy practice. Core themes include policy analysis and design, programme evaluation, governance and institutions, public economics, evidence-based decision-making and ethical dimensions of public intervention. Teaching blends lectures and seminars with case studies, group work and real-world policy projects.

• Research methods and data analysis: quantitative and qualitative approaches for policy research, including survey methods, basic econometrics and thematic analysis.
• Policy analysis and evaluation: tools for assessing policy options, cost–benefit and cost–effectiveness approaches, logic models and impact assessment.
• Public economics and finance: economic principles relevant to public choice, taxation, budgeting and resource allocation.
• Governance, institutions and public management: the role of institutions, regulatory frameworks, decentralisation and public sector reform.
• Comparative and international policy: cross-national approaches to welfare, health, education and urban policy.
• Professional placement or applied project: opportunities to work on real-world problems with external partners or undertake an in-depth policy consultancy project.
• Dissertation or major research project: an independent piece of research on a topical public policy issue, supervised by faculty with expertise in the field.

Modules are delivered across taught terms with assessment by essays, policy briefs, presentations, project reports and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as politics, economics, public administration, law, sociology or related social science. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus substantial relevant work experience in the public, voluntary or private sectors may also be considered.

Typical application documentation includes an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining reasons for study and career aims, and references. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements, and may be asked for evidence of professional experience or a CV where relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of policy-facing roles. Common destinations include central and local government policy teams, devolved administrations, think tanks, non-governmental organisations, international organisations, and private-sector consultancies specialising in public services. Job titles often taken by alumni include policy analyst, policy adviser, programme evaluator, research officer, public affairs consultant and project manager.

The course also provides a foundation for further academic study (MPhil/PhD) or specialist professional training in public administration and public sector leadership.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde offers a strong applied focus with close links to policy practitioners and public-sector organisations. Students benefit from being in Glasgow, a city with active public and third-sector networks, and from connections the university maintains with Scottish Government bodies, local authorities and research institutes.

The Faculty emphasises interdisciplinary teaching and practical skill development—particularly in policy evaluation and evidence synthesis—supported by research-active staff. The university’s careers and employability services offer tailored support for policy-related job searches, internships and networking opportunities with alumni working across the public policy landscape.