MA Governance, Politics and Policy (Research)

University of Manchester

Our MA Governance, Politics and Policy explores the fundamental political, governance, and policy-related issues shaping societies in the 21st century.On this master’s, you will investigate how policies are actually made. Uncover the competing interests, power dynamics, institutional constraints, and real-world pressures that shape decisions at every level of government. You’ll examine how governing systems influence policymaking, how political authority operates from local councils to major international bodies, and how ideas, evidence, and public debate feed into policy outcomes. Alongside this, you will develop the analytical and research skills needed to navigate and make sense of today’s most pressing political challenges.If you’re aiming for a research-intensive career, our Research Route gives you deeper training in qualitative and quantitative methods, and more hands-on experience designing your own research projects.You’ll be able to tailor your course to fit your interests, exploring topics such as:Political Parties in Contemporary BritainEuropean Politics and Policy MakingUnderstanding Political ChangePolitics and Data Science.

School of Social Sciences