Introducing our new MA Philosophy Public Policy Pathway! Applications for September 2024 open now

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From September, Dr Robin McKenna will be leading a brand new ‘Public Policy’ pathway on our MA Philosophy. Here he introduces the programme.

Our new MA Philosophy (Public Policy) builds on our long-established MA in Philosophy by offering a specialist route in public policy. This programme should appeal both to students with a background in philosophy and an interest in putting their knowledge into practice and those with a background in social sciences and an interest in exploring more philosophical issues and questions. This pathway will be an exciting new challenge for students who have studied PPE at undergraduate but will also appeal to anyone who is looking to make a difference to public and political life, whether through work in the charitable sector, journalism, education, the civil service or politics.

Those taking this programme, will learn how philosophical theory and analysis can be used to understand and shape public policy, scientific practice, and act as a force for social and political change. There are two compulsory modules, Philosophy, Science and Public Policy and Philosophy and Social Change, which introduce philosophical critiques of society and important social institutions such as science. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in and acquire the tools to apply this knowledge in public life. Optional modules will further enhance the student experience by offering a chance to pick from a wide range of philosophical topics to broaden their personal perspective on social issues. 

The programme will offer training in the forensic, dialectical, and analytical tools that characterize good philosophical practice, preparing students for both academic and professional success. It also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate research in philosophy or the social sciences.

Anyone who is interested in applying to join us next year can find out more here, or email Dr Robin McKenna. As with all our MA programmes, full-time and part-time study options are available. Applications are open until the end of August but places are assigned on a first-come basis.