This MA equips you with the skills to analyze social and public policy, understand policy development, and its role in people's lives. It combines taught coursework with supervised independent study, developing your research skills in a specific area of interest. The program is suited for those considering a career in social and public policy analysis, advocacy, or research in the public sector or NGOs. You'll explore themes relating to demographic, economic, political, and societal challenges, including social inequality and policy reforms. The course focuses on the theoretical and empirical dimensions of policy development, drawing on different disciplinary traditions. You will gain detailed knowledge of policy processes, assessing how policy-making seeks to respond to complex social problems.

Graduates can pursue careers as: Civil servants, Government officers, International organization officers/consultants, Public management consultants, Campaign assistants for political parties, Research managers, Policy analysts, and Academics. The program is designed for aspiring leaders in the public, non-profit, or private sectors with links to public policy.

The University of York is a member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group, indicating a commitment to world-class research and teaching excellence. It is a university with many highly ranked subjects and with great graduate prospects, signifying strong employability outcomes for its students. The university is located in a historic city in northern England that's famous for being friendly, offering a welcoming and culturally rich student experience. The School for Business and Society, where this program is based, provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.