The MA in Public Policy will appeal to Arts and Social Science graduates seeking a qualification that will help them to secure policy-related employment; graduates from other cognate fields including Economics and Law seeking to improve their employment prospects; graduates interested in pursuing PhD research. 

What will I study?

Modules on this programme provide students with the theoretical and empirical tools that are necessary for the analysis of public policy and the completion of the research dissertation. 

1. Public Policy and Politics (10 ECTS) Public Policy and Politics (10 ECTS) reviews the major approaches to the study of public policy, and introduces students to key concepts including the policy cycle, policy stakeholders, public participation, and digital governance (Semester 1). 

1. Policy Challenges: National, European and Global (10 ECTS) Policy Challenges: National, European and Global (10 ECTS) introduces students to contemporary policy challenges at national, European and global levels and to mechanisms for public consultation. It examines how issues make it on to the agenda of decision-makers and prepares students to contribute to policy-making processes through the critical reflection of policy challenges and corresponding problem-solving. The module is taught by experts from a range of disciplines across the university including Law, Economics, Political Science, Sociology and Management. There is a particular emphasis on the use of public consultations (Semester 1). 

1. Research Methods and Methodology (10 ECTS) This module aims to give students a solid grounding in research methods. The topics covered include definitions of research, argument and logic, sources of information, tools for information searches, theory and practice of basic qualitative and quantitative research methods (Semester 1). 

1. Public Policy Seminar (5 ECTS) This module introduces students to critical engagement with policy-making and governance and to the writing of evidence-based policy briefs aimed at informing and influencing policymakers. The module is taught by experts from a range of disciplines across the university including Law, Economics, Political Science and Sociology and generally includes one or two seminars by external experts. The module typically covers topics such as crime, economic policy, housing, migration, lobbying, environmental policy, child and family policy, and more. Students are expected to participate actively in the seminars by asking questions and contributing to group discussion. 

1. Research Workshops (10 ECTS) This module provides workshops relevant to the development of students’ dissertations. The workshops are led by academic staff with diverse and varied research experience. Typical workshop topics include academic writing, critical thinking, literature review, methods selection, working with primary sources, and the development of a research proposal, along with workshops focused on specific fields of research (Semesters 1 and 2). 

SP6145 Research Paper (20 ECTS) 

The Research Paper (MA dissertation) on an original research topic is completed over the summer months. 

Curriculum Information

Specialised Modules: This programme offers a diverse range of optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests. Among the modules available are: 

• Negotiations
• Women, Conflict and Human Security
• European Consumer Law and Policy
• Irish Politics North and South
• Global Issues in Agricultural, Marine and Renewable Energy Economics
• Communicating Climate Action and Science
• Advocacy and Access to Justice 

N.B. Some optional modules require students to have taken certain prerequisite courses. The list of available modules may vary from year to year. Availability of optional modules in some disciplines will be subject to minimum head counts as determined by the disciplines involved. 

• International Student Body: The MA in Public Policy attracts students from diverse backgrounds, promoting a rich learning environment that encourages global perspectives on public policy.
• International Exposure: The Brussels Field Trip offers will give you a platform to build professional connections by engaging directly with EU policymakers, advocacy organisations and other stakeholders within the European political system.
• Professional Experience (Placement): This course offers an optional work placement, giving you the chance to gain hands-on experience in a policy-focused environment and apply their academic learning to real-world challenges. 

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

The field trip to Brussels is a standout feature of the MA in Public Policy, offering students a unique opportunity to experience European policymaking up close. During this immersive visit, students meet with key influencers such as Members of the European Parliament, lobbyists, NGOs and other institutions. It’s a hands-on chance to understand the dynamics of EU decision-making, expand policy knowledge, and build valuable professional networks that can support future international careers.

The optional work placement is a key practical component of the MA in Public Policy, offering you real-world experience in a policy-focused organisation. It will allow you to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional skills, and gain insights into the day-to-day workings of policy development and implementation. This hands-on opportunity not only strengthens your CV but also builds industry connections that can support future employment 

• Dr. Evangelos Fanoulis
• Dr. Brendan Flynn
• Dr. Hanna-Kaisa Hoppania
• Prof. Kevin Leyden
• Prof. Michelle Millar
• Dr. Brian McGrath
• Ms. Jacqueline Murphy 
• Mr. Niall Ó Brolcháin
• Prof. Niall Ó Dochartaigh 

Assessment methods include among others presentations, policy briefs, policy papers, and the research dissertation. 

Programme Director:  

Dr Evans Fanoulis 
School of Political Science and Sociology 
University of Gaway 
E: evans.fanoulis@universityofgalway.ie 

The MA in Public Policy will equip you with a broad range of transferable skills that are highly valued across multiple industries and roles. Through rigorous coursework, practical assignments and real-world experiences, students develop critical thinking, effective communication and strategic problem-solving abilities. These skills prepare graduates not only for careers in policy but also for leadership roles in business, non-profits, media and beyond. 

Key transferable skills gained from the programme include: 

• Analytical thinking and data interpretation
• Policy research and evaluation 
• Strategic communication and presentation 
• Negotiation and conflict resolution
• Project management and organisational skills
• Stakeholder engagement and networking
• Adaptability and problem-solving
• Ethical decision-making and governance understanding 

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 are required to supply two references. One must be an academic reference (in the case of applicants currently undertaking studies) OR an employer (in the case of applicants currently in employment). 

In addition, non-University of Galway students are required to provide the following: 

Official qualifications and exam results (transcripts) to date: required for all non-University of Galway applicants and for University of Galway graduates who did not receive their undergraduate degrees from University of Galway. Copies of originals must be certified as true copies. Applicants who have still to graduate must send in these on receipt. 

Passport or Birth certificate: non-University of Galway-applicants only—a copy of your passport or birth certificate must also be submitted. 

English language competency: if necessary, evidence of English language competency. Further details can be found here. 

If the selection committee deems it necessary, applicants can be called for an interview to better assess their application.

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. 

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships (standard text for all courses) 
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for each the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.