Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
This program extends beyond theoretical instruction to provide a comprehensive understanding of British governance, delivered in collaboration with government insiders. Our Government Studies MA stands alone as the sole program concentrating on UK governance that moves past abstract concepts to examine the real-world dynamics, decision-makers, and operational mechanisms of the British state. Students engage with innovative modules developed alongside institutions including 10 Downing Street and HM Treasury, learning from distinguished practitioners like former Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls alongside top academic experts. Throughout this Government Studies MA, you'll acquire both practical competencies and historical insights to master the intricacies of Britain's unwritten constitution. The curriculum emphasizes tradition, historical context, and institutional relationships, reflecting governance's fundamental nature to deliver thorough comprehension of policy formation. Key advantages The only program specifically dedicated to British governance that incorporates historical analysis into policy studies rather than focusing solely on theory or policy history. Benefit from instruction by both practitioners and scholars while receiving elite education at a top-ranked UK institution (QS World University Rankings 2024). Participate in an exclusive cohort and access connections with international corporations like Amazon Web Services and Workday through diverse extracurricular programming. Obtain nuanced understanding of policy development directly from government professionals, with emphasis on addressing political, social, and economic issues. Cultivate transferable skills alongside specialized knowledge, particularly developing interpersonal abilities including self-assurance, communication, and emotional awareness. Program fundamentals: Our Government Studies master's features equal contributions from policymakers and academic leaders. You'll engage directly with prominent figures including former shadow Chancellor Ed Balls; Sir Michael Barber, former Head of the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit; and John Rentoul, The Independent's chief political analyst. The program emphasizes acquiring practical and historical competencies to properly frame policy decisions. Through interdisciplinary coursework incorporating varied teaching approaches—such as case studies recreating significant debates or simulating critical choices—you'll develop both technical and interpersonal skills. Presentation opportunities before government, media, and business professionals will further enhance your verbal communication abilities. Two core modules explore Prime Ministerial decision-making and UK government operations, featuring instruction from Downing Street officials and including site visits. Career prospects: Professional preparation Government Studies MA graduates will possess qualifications suitable for roles across multiple sectors including public administration, corporate environments, non-governmental organizations, media, and policy advocacy. The program's research training prepares students for positions in research organizations and think tanks, while also establishing strong foundations for doctoral study. Participants will enjoy extensive networking access to professionals from government, journalism, and business spheres.
Standard requirements
A minimum 2:1 undergraduate Bachelor’s (honours) degree
If you have a lower degree classification, or a degree in an unrelated subject, your application may be considered if you can demonstrate significant relevant work experience, or offer a related graduate qualification (such as a Masters or PGDip).
Bachelor (Honours) degree / Master of Arts (Honours) degree with Upper Second Class Honours and 60% overall from the final two years
IELTS (Academic): 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill
TOEFL iBT: 100 overall with a minimum of 25 in writing and 23 in each of the other skills.