MPP, MSc Public Policy

at University of Oxford

Through the Public Policy 1+1 programme, you will complete an intensive taught Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree course that offers a distinctive approach to learning about public policy. The MPP is a one-year graduate degree that will help you develop your understanding of public policy challenges. You will learn about how policy is made, implemented and evaluated in governments at local, regional and global levels. The MPP is a transformative opportunity for current and future leaders with a commitment to public service. The MPP derives lessons for better governance from countries all around the world. You will discover, share and build on successes achieved by policymakers in other countries – from the smallest to the most powerful.

In the second year, the MSc in Public Policy Research will teach you how to conduct robust, applied and impactful research, and give you a keen understanding of the relationship between research evidence and other major influences on the public policy process such as ideologies and institutions. You will be able to design and undertake a range of policy-relevant research methods to the highest standards and you will effectively communicate research findings to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers and the general public.

At the end of the Public Policy 1+1 programme, you will be able to design and undertake a range of policy-relevant research methods and effectively communicate your research findings to policymakers and the general public.

In order to be considered for the Public Policy 1+1 you must submit separate applications for the Master of Public Policy (MPP) and the MSc in Public Policy Research in the same admission cycle. You should follow the instructions in the How to apply section of each course page, paying particular attention to the personal statement and written work requirements for each course. You should state clearly that you wish to be considered for the Public Policy 1+1 programme in your personal statement.

Applicants accepted to the 2023-25 Public Policy 1+1 programme, will undertake the Master of Public Policy (MPP) during the 2023-24 academic year and (subject to satisfactory progress on the MPP and meetings any conditions for progression that have been set) will go on to study for the MSc in Public Policy Research during the 2024-25 academic year.

Benefits of the Public Policy 1+1 programme include:
 

• teaching by outstanding academics, as well as expert practitioners, you will be uniquely positioned to develop academic knowledge and professional skills to address some of this century's most complex public policy challenges; and
• upon completion you will be well equipped for research and related jobs in government, quasi-governmental agencies, state and local governments, international organisations, not-for-profit organisations, charities and pressure groups.

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline. 

Applicants should have an outstanding academic record with exceptionally high academic results throughout, or should show an impressive upward trajectory in performance. This may be further evidenced by scholarships or prizes awarded because of academic abilities/achievements or glowing academic references ranking you at the very top of your peer group.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is usually 3.7 out of 4.0.

GRE General Test scores

It is recommended that you also submit scores from a standardised test such as the GRE, GMAT or LSAT, though these are not required to complete your application. 

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

Publications are not expected.

Commitment to public service

In addition to academic and analytical ability, applicants are expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment to public service. You should demonstrate an ethos of public service evident in the trajectory of your chosen career path, whether this be in the public, private or NGO sector, and/or an outstanding record of achievement in volunteering. This ethos and commitment should also go beyond your own life and demonstrate that you are able to show regard for others in the broader community, and recognise why the perspectives of others might differ from your own.

Evidence of leadership and impact

Applicants should also demonstrate an ability to lead and have impact in their chosen field through devising or initiating projects which are innovative in nature and lead to real and lasting change. This does not necessarily need to be shown through traditional leadership positions. You should bear in mind that leadership often requires enabling and empowering others to succeed. Sometimes the highest-impact work is also the quieter work which takes place behind the scenes, facilitating the more visible contributions of others. These qualities of leadership, drive and entrepreneurialism may be demonstrated through voluntary, professional or other activities.

There is no preferred background for the MPP and applications are welcomed from all academic disciplines and professional backgrounds. Prior full-time or part-time professional experience is viewed favourably, because of the ways in which it can develop and enhance commitment to public service and evidence of leadership and impact.

Please note, in considering applicants’ achievements and their suitability for a place on the MPP, the Blavatnik School of Government takes a holistic approach and a range of contextual factors, looking at each applicant’s individual circumstances, will be taken into account.

Further guidance
 

• There are no age restrictions on the MPP and you are not required to come with prior professional experience. However the majority of successful candidates often bring at least a year or two of professional experience, if not significantly more. 

• The MPP is an applied degree and students will not be taught in-depth research skills. It will not prepare applicants directly for progression to research-based courses such as the DPhil in Public Policy. 

• In order to be accepted onto the DPhil applicants will be required to have completed a degree that provided the research training and skills necessary for their intended DPhil area of study.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic

7.5 

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£49,080

Overseas    
£49,080