Keele University

What you'll study

This programme introduces core concepts in international governance and public policy while developing methodological skills for analysing policy processes at local, national and global levels. Teaching is research-led and combines lectures, seminars, case studies and project work.

• Year 1 / introductory core modules: foundations of international relations, comparative politics, principles of public policy, introduction to political theory, and basic research methods. Students gain an overview of actors and institutions in global governance and begin applied policy analysis.
• Year 2 / intermediate modules: modules typically cover global political economy, international law and human rights, security and conflict, and public management. The year emphasises quantitative and qualitative research techniques, policy evaluation methods and policy design.
• Final year / advanced study: advanced modules focus on specialised areas such as development policy, migration and refugee policy, environmental and climate governance, European and regional governance, and ethical issues in global policy. Students complete a substantial independent dissertation or practice-based project in an area of their choice.
• Options and languages: students can select optional modules in related fields (sociology, economics, law, or history) and often have the opportunity to study a modern foreign language alongside their degree to enhance international employability.
• Placement and study abroad: Keele typically offers optional placement or study-abroad opportunities so students can gain practical, work-based experience in government, NGOs, international organisations or policy research settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A-levels (three subjects) or an International Baccalaureate diploma or an approved Access to HE qualification. Keele welcomes applicants from a range of academic backgrounds but prefers evidence of strong performance in at least one social sciences or humanities subject such as politics, history, economics, sociology or law.

• Keenness to engage with politics, public policy and international affairs is important; admissions tutors look for relevant personal statements and, where required, references.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must meet Keele's English language requirements through an approved qualification.
• Mature applicants and those with relevant vocational or professional experience are considered on an individual basis.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a written sample as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across the public, private and third sectors. Typical career paths include:

• policy officer or analyst in central and local government;
• roles in international organisations and multilateral agencies;
• positions with non-governmental organisations and charities focused on development, human rights or humanitarian response;
• work in diplomacy and foreign service, including government services and consular roles;
• think tanks and research institutes, contributing to policy research and advocacy;
• public affairs, lobbying and corporate social responsibility roles in the private sector;
• further study at postgraduate level (MA/MSc/PhD) in international relations, public policy, development studies or related disciplines.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based university experience with small-group teaching that encourages discussion and close contact with academic staff. The International Governance and Public Policy degree benefits from interdisciplinary teaching across politics, social science and law, allowing students to tailor their degree to specific policy interests.

• Students can take advantage of placement and study-abroad options to gain practical international experience and build professional networks.
• Keele provides dedicated student support services, careers guidance and opportunities to engage with research-active staff, ensuring teaching is informed by current scholarship and real-world policy debates.
• The campus environment, combined with extracurricular opportunities such as student societies, volunteering and guest speaker programmes, helps students develop the professional skills and contacts needed for careers in governance and public policy.