Comparative Applied Social & Public Policy, Evaluation & Research MA
University of York, United Kingdom
Comparative Applied Social & Public Policy, Evaluation & Research MPA
University of York
Social and Public Policy
Program Overview: Comparative Applied Social & Public Policy, Evaluation & Research MPA
The MPA in Comparative Applied Social and Public Policy, Evaluation and Research at the University of York is designed for mid-career professionals who work, or intend to work, with policy as advisers, researchers, analysts, or consultants. You will study a strongly international curriculum combining comparative social and public policy management with advanced research skills training.
This program builds directly on the university's applied policy research expertise, with taught modules drawing heavily on ongoing research. You will undertake practice-related activities, including small group exercises that expose you to applied policy research in practice with the support of a learning mentor.
Based in the School for Business and Society, which houses one of the largest concentrations of social policy research in the UK, you will benefit from access to specialist research units including the Social Policy Research Unit and the Centre for Housing Policy. The program's comparative focus draws on policy lessons from OECD member states.
Key Program Highlights
- York is ranked 41st in the world for Social Policy and Administration in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- Strongly international curriculum with comparative cross-national and international policy focus across OECD member states
- Practice-relevant activities and applied policy research projects with learning mentor support
- Hosted by the School for Business and Society, home to the Social Policy Research Unit and Centre for Housing Policy
Curriculum & Modules
The first half of this 21-month MPA enables you to study and explore a combination of comparative social policy and public management. In the second half, you will gain advanced research skills training and deepen your understanding of applied social and public policy through practice-based learning.
Examines social policy systems across different countries, analysing welfare state models, policy convergence and divergence, and the impact of globalisation on national policy frameworks.
Explores the principles and practices of public sector management, including governance structures, accountability mechanisms, and the role of institutions in policy implementation.
Enables you to critically reflect on the strengths, limitations, and appropriateness of different research approaches and techniques for evaluating and commissioning research in public policy contexts.
Develops your ability to systematically assess public policies using evaluation frameworks, evidence-based approaches, and analytical tools to determine policy effectiveness and impact.
Builds on foundational research methods to equip you with advanced quantitative and qualitative skills for conducting independent social policy research at a professional level.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
This MPA program is designed for mid-career professionals with substantial work experience in public policy or related fields. Applicants are assessed on academic qualifications, professional experience, and research potential. All applications are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationAt least a 2:1 (Upper Second Class) undergraduate honours degree or equivalent international qualification
- Professional ExperienceAt least three years of professional experience in a public sector or NGO setting
- Non-Standard EntryApplicants with relevant work experience and demonstrated academic potential may also be considered
- International QualificationsInternational degrees must be equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours degree — contact Uni4Edu for equivalency guidance
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references supporting your application
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of York and external bodies offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for financial support that matches your profile and eligibility.
Chevening Scholarships
Fully funded (tuition, living costs, travel)Chevening Scholarships provide fully-funded postgraduate study in the UK for international students who are early and mid-career professionals with leadership potential. These are funded by the UK government.
University of York Postgraduate Scholarships
The University of York offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships for postgraduate taught students. Eligibility and award amounts vary by program and applicant profile.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Fully funded (tuition, living allowance, travel)Available to students from Commonwealth countries, these scholarships support postgraduate study in the UK and are awarded based on academic merit and development potential.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of this MPA program are equipped to take on roles with higher degrees of leadership responsibility and strategic impact in public policy and administration. The program's combination of comparative policy analysis and advanced research skills prepares you for careers across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employing Organisations
Rankings & Recognition
The University of York is consistently ranked among the top universities globally and in the UK, with particular strength in social policy and the social sciences. Its School for Business and Society is recognised for research excellence that directly influences policy and practice.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Policy and Administration | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 |
| Arts and Humanities | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #50 |
| Sociology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Social Work and Social Policy (REF) | Times Higher Education REF Rankings | Top Quartile in the UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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