Department: Department of Politics and International Relations. This 1-year full-time Master of Arts (MA) in Public Administration and Public Policy is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding the formation, implementation, and evaluation of public policy. The program offers a firm grasp of the international and domestic institutional contexts that shape policy-making processes, combined with specialist expertise in the theoretical and analytical tools necessary to conduct high-quality research in public policy and administration. It covers core areas such as theories of the policy process, comparative institutions and public policy, public management and delivery, and principles of policy advice. Students have the opportunity to specialize through a range of option modules covering diverse areas from public finance and public entrepreneurship to global governance and challenges in democratizing countries. The degree culminates in a dissertation of typically 8,000 to 12,000 words, allowing for in-depth exploration of a chosen policy or administrative topic.

Graduates of the MA in Public Administration and Public Policy are well-prepared for diverse and impactful careers across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, contributing to effective governance and societal progress. The program cultivates advanced skills in policy analysis, research, critical thinking, strategic management, and communication, highly valued by employers. Career opportunities include roles in: Civil Service (local, national, or international government, e.g., policy officer, research analyst, management trainee); Public Policy Think Tanks and Research Institutions; Consultancy Firms (public sector, policy advisory); Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) involved in advocacy and policy influence; International Organizations (e.g., UN agencies, World Bank, focusing on policy development); Political Research and Lobbying; Journalism (specializing in public affairs); Academia (as a foundation for PhD studies). Specific job titles might include Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Manager, Government Relations Specialist, Research Officer, Programme Manager, or Management Consultant.

The University of York is a member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group, signifying its commitment to world-class research and an outstanding teaching and learning environment. The Department of Politics and International Relations is highly ranked in the UK (ranked in the UK top ten for research quality in the latest REF 2021 results), with research strengths in Comparative Politics and Public Policy. The university offers great graduate prospects, preparing students for influential careers. Located in a historic city in northern England that's famous for being friendly and safe (ranked 2nd safest city in the UK in 2023), York provides a supportive and engaging environment. The department's faculty are active researchers who advise governments and international organizations, providing students with exposure to cutting-edge research and real-world policy challenges. The program's flexible module options allow students to tailor their studies to specific career interests.