PUBLIC POLICY RESEARCH MRes at 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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