PostGraduate Course

MA

Public Policy

University of Galway - UG
University of Galway - UG
Course Code
Zone
Attendance
Full time

Course Summary

The MA in Public Policy is designed for graduates who want to make a meaningful impact locally and globally by shaping public decisions and driving positive change.

College Link

University of Galway - UG
College Link > - Public Policy

Colleges often have information about the course on their own website, along with other useful information relating to the college. (Note: Not always available)

Career Sectors

This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.

Entry Requirements

Personal statement:?all applicants must enclose a typed personal statement of approximately 600 words explaining why you wish to undertake the programme(s) of your choice, outlining how it fits into your career objectives, and discussing your research interests.

Referees:?You must provide two written references. The first reference should be either an academic reference (if you are currently studying) or an employer reference (if you are currently working). The second reference may be from a source of your choice.

Students must hold at least 2:1 (or equivalent) Bachelor's degree in politics, social sciences, economics, law, business or a cognate discipline.

Application Details

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.

An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

Next start date September 2026

Fees

Fees: EU
€8,390 p.a. full-time; €4,355 p.a. part-time (including levy) 2024/25
Fees: Tuition
€8,250 p.a. full-time; €4,250 p.a. part-time 2024/25
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. full-time; €105 p.a. part-time 2024/25
Fees: Non EU
€19,000 p.a. (€19,140 including levy) 2024/25

Post Graduate Diploma: EU €5,640 (including levy) ; Non EU: €14,390 (including levy) 2024/25

Student levy €140 - payable by all students and is not covered by SUSI.

The Student

Career Interests

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.


Enterprising

Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.


Career Progression

This programme offers strong career prospects across diverse sectors by equipping you with critical insights into governance, policy-making and public decision processes. As a Graduates, you will be well prepared to enter a role where analytical thinking and policy expertise are in high demand.

Potential career paths include:

Policy Analyst or Advisor
EU or UN Agency Officer
Civil Service Executive (local, regional, or national)
Public Affairs or Communications Specialist
NGO or Non-Profit Manager
International Development Consultant
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
Public Relations or Media Analyst
Lobbyist or Advocacy Officer

Duration

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time.
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