Our departments

In numbers

  • 1st
    in REF2021 for Politics research
    (Times Higher Education)
  • 4th
    in the UK for Politics
    (The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)
  • 6th
    in the UK for Politics
    (Guardian University Guide 2024)

Unparalleled insight into what shapes our world

The Department of Government and Public Policy combines world-class teaching and research that explore political systems and institutions throughout the world and how they inter-relate. Graduates leave our programmes with a thorough and nuanced understanding of political science, policymaking and practical approaches to political problems.

Our graduates also gain transferable skills in research and analysis and go on to pursue careers in government, civil service, consultancy firms, banks, NGOs, SMEs and start-ups. Others find our courses ideal preparation for doctoral research and careers in academia. 

The foundation of our work is a vigorous research culture. Our Research Excellence Framework 2021 submission was the highest-rated in the UK, with 62% of research rated world-leading and 100% of the impact rated outstanding.

 

Our students

MSc Public Policy student Josh Box

Josh Box

MSc Public Policy

Staff and lecturers always go out of their way to help, whether face-to-face, through Skype or e-mail. Student support services are also very good, as are the finance department who have given me invaluable support and advice.
Kusum Vishwakarma PhD Politics student

Kusum Vishwakarma

PhD Politics

The department follows an excellent interdisciplinary approach of combining ideas and practical knowledge with real world engagement. It has an impressive setup with different Centres functioning in collaboration which definitely enhances the overall experience.
MSc International Relations student Sarah Finlay

Sarah Finley

MSc International Relations

I have been greatly impressed with the specialist knowledge held by each of my lecturers and tutors. Not only did they provide great lectures and seminars, they were also highly approachable and easy to talk to.

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