The Sociology and Public Policy Department is a dynamic group of scholars at the forefront of thinking about how we shape and define new public values; how we understand processes of governing; how we can enliven political debate, contestation and engagement; and how we think about social change. We have specific expertise in a number of key policy domains – social care; urban policy; education policy; environmental policy; and health policy. As a postgraduate student, you will be fully engaged in this lively faculty.
But, innovative thinking isn’t just an academic affair. We are also very keen to engage with practitioners and practice. Wherever possible, we will bring in external speakers to talk about their experience of policy in practice and how they see policy responding to key challenges in their areas. You will also have the option of taking a small work placement within a public or voluntary sector organization during the summer term. This is an opportunity for you to test out innovative ideas at the sharp end; ideas which you might take to future employers.
Modules within this programme include:
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Dissertation
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Public Policy, Public Management and Governance
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Social Policy: Contemporary Themes and Challenges
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Social Theory and Social Change
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Globalization and Responses on the National and Local Level
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Knowledge, Science and Society
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Life, Love, The University and Everything
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Work Placement
- Normally, at least a 2.1 honours classification in a degree taken in an appropriate subject (including Business Studies) at a British or Irish university, or an equivalent qualification on the completion of appropriate tertiary-level studies elsewhere.
International students whose native language is not English and have not completed a full degree programme taught in English, will also need to obtain:
- An IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 7 in writing and minimum of 6 in speaking, listening and reading.
This course helps you to develop team working skills, presentation and communication skills, as well as research and report writing skills. Your IT skills will also benefit from use of our newly refurbished IT Facilities.
Dr Karen West:
k.west@aston.ac.uk Dr Crispian Fuller: c.fuller@aston.ac.uk
Dr Anneliese Dodds: a.dodds@aston.ac.uk
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