Just as political economy offers a window into the real world of economic activity, public policy provides the tools for shaping and influencing that activity – at a local, national and international level. For anyone looking ahead to a future in policy making, it's a powerful combination. <br>This masters course offers the chance to develop an advanced insight into today's political, social and economic issues, together with the policy-focused experience and research skills essential for understanding and creating the kind of public policy that touches lives and livelihoods. You will learn the process of crafting a response to a whole range of major issues, from economic development and productivity, to climate change, disruptive technology and new forms of inequality.<br>Whether you have just graduated – in politics, economics, geography, social policy or similar – or you're already working in policy development, our course offers the chance to take the next step. Because, as well as exploring theories around economic geography, local governance and the welfare state, you'll also get a practical perspective. You will learn from leading practitioners, covering the realities of policy-making institutions and processes, while you can even choose to take on a placement to gain experience of your own.