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Postgraduate degree

Public Policy MA

Overview Teaching & Modules Entry requirements Fees

Overview

Programme disclaimer

Please note the course details apply to 2026 entry. Details for 2027 entry for our postgraduate courses will be published from mid-October 2026.

The Public Policy MA is a multi- disciplinary course that provides a strong foundation in policy making and analysis, comparative public policy, public sector economics, governance and public management, and ethics and public policy. With a strong emphasis on conceptual analysis and applied understanding of how policies are developed and implemented, the programme equips students with skills valued across sectors. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector - particularly in roles involving regulatory affairs, public affairs, or policy advisory functions where strategic insight into policy dynamics and a nuanced understanding of policymaking processes are essential.

Key benefits

You will learn to think analytically and independently about key issues in public policy.
You will be trained to integrate theories and evidence from political science, ethics and political economy.
You will develop essential skills to master qualitative and quantitative research methods.
The optional project placement (internship) provides you with potential future employment opportunities and the chance to study different public service areas.
A highly flexible study programme, drawing on a broad range of professional experience and disciplinary expertise.
Regular speakers from UK-based government departments, public sector bodies, NGOs and policymaking units who discuss the implementation and evaluation of public policies.

Living in London is exciting, and studying at the heart of the city gave me the opportunity to enjoy all that London offers.

AndresPublic Policy MA, Chile

Key Information

Course type:

Master's

Delivery mode:

In person

Study mode:

Full time / Part time

Duration:

One year full-time, September to September, two years part-time

Credit value:

UK 180 / ECTS 90

Application status:

Open

Start date:

September 2026

Key Links

Taught in

Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy

School of Politics & Economics

Department of Political Economy

Administrative bodies

Regulating body

King's is regulated by the Office for students

Application closing date guidance

We encourage you to apply as early as possible so that there is sufficient time for your application to be assessed and we may need to request further information from you during the application process.

Our first application deadline is on 9 March 2026 (23:59 UK time). The final application deadlines for this programme are:

Overseas (international) fee status: 25 July 2026 (23:59 UK time)
Home fee status: 25 August 2026 (23:59 UK time)

After the first application deadline in March:

if the programme is not yet full, we will continue to accept applications until all available places are filled up to the final application deadlines above
if the programme becomes full before the final application deadlines stated above, we will close the programme to further applications

Please note, you will not be eligible for an application fee refund if you apply after the first application deadline, and we are unable to process further offers because places are filled and we close the course before the final application deadline.

Base campuses

Please note that locations are determined by where each module is taught and may vary depending on the modules you study.

Strand Campus

Strand Campus feels like the heart of London—historic yet buzzing with energy. Nestled by the Thames, it offers world-class academics, vibrant student life, and endless inspiration from the city’s culture and diversity.

Waterloo Campus

Our Waterloo campus is home to the Florence Nightingale Faculty Nursing & Midwifery, and a vibrant hub for health, social science, and law students. Located moments from the iconic landmarks of South Bank and just a short walk to the Stand campus.