University of Surrey
Public Affairs MSc
University of Surrey

Key Course Facts

Course Description

Why choose this course

The international political landscape has undergone remarkable changes in the past 50 years. Politics continues to affect life in every area of society, and it is only through study that we can begin to make sense of the global political landscape and create real change.

Our Public Affairs MSc has a public policy and international politics emphasis which makes it distinct from other programmes in the UK.

Our Department of Politics is home to a lively community of energetic minds who closely examine how power operates and how it affects people’s lives. This innovative masters course is unique in the UK and focuses on the active role that citizens can play in shaping politics at local, national and international levels.

You will also have the option to take a three-month work placement, which makes our MSc programme unique. Students have full flexibility when selecting their placement as long as it fits within the realm of their studies. Recently, we have had students whose placements examined foreign and public policy in embassies, government departments and private companies.

What you will study

Our MSc in Public Affairs will enhance your existing knowledge of political science, public policy and international affairs. A distinctive feature of this programme is its applied nature, and emphasis on political and social change.

This course will strengthen your research skills, allow you to study politics in a cross-disciplinary manner, provide you with insight into the creation of public policy, and enhance your understanding of the workings of public affairs.

Your modules will cover topics such as:

Global governance

International politics and public affairs

International trade

Negotiating and lobbying

Political communication and campaigning.

You will also have the option to take international relations modules (e.g. focusing on diplomacy, conflict, international political economy) and select modules from the Department of Sociology, the School of Law and the School of Economics.

You’ll also complete a year-long dissertation, or a project-based report linked to your three-month work placement, if you take this option.

You will be taught via seminars and simulation-based learning, for example, practising trade agreement negotiations and court room procedures.

Entry Requirements / Admissions

Requirements for international students / English requirements

IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)

    • 6.5
    • All Degrees

We are proud to be one of the most culturally diverse universities in the UK, with more than 140 nationalities playing a role in university life. Our International Recruitment team are here to help you throughout the application process – from advising on choosing the right course to applying for a visa and preparing for your first few weeks at Surrey. You can contact them via [email protected] Applicants who require a Student Visa to study in the UK: To apply for a Student Visa, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) for the University you wish to study at. This is a unique number which will enable you to apply for your visa. The University is under no legal obligation to sponsor any individual and exercises caution with respect to issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to avoid risking its status as a Student sponsor. Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS) will be issued in accordance with the Student Route and CAS Issuing Policy, available at: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/apply/policies

The University of Surrey offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support our students, please visit https://www.surrey.ac.uk/fees-and-funding/scholarships-and-bursaries for more details.
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Public Affairs, MSc, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in a relevant social science or humanities subject, or a recognised equivalent international qualification. Relevant work experience may also be considered.

English language requirements

**IELTS Academic: 6**5 overall with 6.0 in each element.

Costs

Average student cost of living in the UK

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

Source: Own research based on surveys and university data

University Rankings

Positions of University of Surrey in top UK and global rankings.

See all 31 university rankings of University of Surrey

About University of Surrey

The University of Surrey is a government funded research university located in Guildford, England. The university’s stated goals are to become a leading global university performing important research and innovation, creating great researchers and achieving outcomes which make important contributions to society.

List of 341 Bachelor and Master Courses from University of Surrey - Course Catalogue

Student composition of University of Surrey

Total number of students enrolled at University of Surrey by level Academic year 2021/22 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on February 2022
undergraduates:
10985
postgraduates:
3275
Total:
14260
Source: Academic year 2021/22 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on February 2022
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Where is this programme taught

Stag Hill
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