MSc Public Policy and Management (Online)

Mode of Attendance: Online learning

Our MSc Public Policy and Management programme will enable you with the conceptual tools and the practical skills to analyse, understand, and play a role in the policy and administrative process.

The modules of the programme will equip students with theoretical knowledge about policy-making, policy implementation, and the management of public sector entities. A variety of modules will provide students with the possibility to deepen their understanding of more specific areas such as, for example, the management of human resources in the public sector, the public financial management process, the decentralisation of public functions and the collaboration between public and private entities. Along the way, students will develop capabilities to analyse, critically appraise and communicate which will provide valuable assets for their professional activity and career prospects.

The subject area of public policy and management refers to all systems, processes and tools that public authorities employ to fulfil citizens’ expectations and deliver public services. Whatever the domain of intervention – for example, from healthcare to energy or from poverty to environmental preservation – public authorities make decisions about how to assess the present state of affairs and future tendencies, whether anything should be done about them, and how they can use resources and mechanisms to steer the conduct of individuals, firms and NGOs towards the desired effects.

Why study MSc in Public Policy and Management at SOAS

• we’re ranked 14th in the UK and 1st in London for Business and Management (Guardian 2020)
• programmes are delivered by a multicultural and international teaching body, who regularly publish in top international journals
• you will develop an excellent understanding of key issues shaping international business strategy
• we are specialists in the delivery of more that forty African and Asian languages. As the economies of the Global South continue to expand, knowledge of another language and other cultures will be a big asset in the world of commerce and international trade
• you will be joining our community of alumni and academics who have an impact on the outside world of academia 

Employment

As a graduate of this programme, you will be well prepared for senior positions in national and sub-national government sectors, international organisations, regional development and aid agencies, and NGOs.

Structure

You will study six modules selected from the list below.

If you wish to complete the Dissertation you must study Research Methods.

Modules

• Decentralisation and Local Governance
• Dissertation
• E-Government
• Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
• Financial Reporting (IPSAS)
• Human Resource Management and Development
• Managing Organisational Change
• Privatisation and Public-Private Partnerships
• Project Appraisal
• Project, Programme and Policy Evaluation
• Public Financial Management: Audit and Compliance
• Public Financial Management: Planning and Performance
• Public Financial Management: Revenue
• Public Policy and Management: Development Assistance
• Public Policy and Management: Perspectives and Issues
• Public Policy and Strategy
• Regulation of Infrastructure and Utilities
• Research Methods
• The IMF and Economic Policy

Important notice

The information on the programme page reflects the intended programme structure against the given academic session. If you are a current student you can find structure information through your Department.

Admissions and Applications

You can apply using our online application form.

Our online application form allows you to submit your application directly to us for consideration. We aim to answer each application within 10 working days. Once it has been reviewed, you may be made a conditional offer. A firm offer will only be made once we have received your supporting documentation as specified in the conditional offer. We will keep you informed of the process of writing.

All supporting documentation must be received by the application deadline.

For all distance learning programmes we require supporting documentation giving evidence of the following:

• Full name and date of birth
• Qualifications (including English language proficiency, where required)

It is your responsibility to arrange for all the necessary documentation to be obtained in support of your application. We cannot undertake this on your behalf.

Please note that, if necessary, we reserve the right to verify your qualifications with the relevant awarding body and to request further information from you about your background.

English Language Entry Requirements

You must be able to show that your English is of a high enough standard to successfully engage with and complete your course at SOAS. Please note that we take our English language requirements seriously and failure to meet them exactly may well result in your application to SOAS being rejected. It is not possible to negotiate if your scores are below our required levels, with the expectation that because they are 'close enough' they will be accepted. It is important that you plan appropriately, well in advance, so that your English language test comes in good time and so that you have time to retake the test if necessary. We do not accept reasons of inconvenience or financial hardship for not submitting or retaking an English test.