Public Affairs MPA - 2025/6
Awarding body
University of Surrey
Teaching institute
University of Surrey
Framework
FHEQ Level 7
Final award and programme/pathway title
MPA Public Affairs
Subsidiary award(s)
| Award | Title |
|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) | Public Affairs |
| Ord | Public Affairs |
| DipHE | Public Affairs |
| CertHE | Public Affairs |
Modes of study
| Route code | Credits and ECTS Credits | |
| Full-time | ULB17001 | 480 credits and 240 ECTS credits |
| Full-time with PTY | ULB17002 | 600 credits and 300 ECTS credits |
QAA Subject benchmark statement (if applicable)
Politics and International Relations
Other internal and / or external reference points
NA
Faculty and Department / School
Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences - Politics & International Relations
Programme Leader
KITCHEN Nicholas (Politics IR)
Date of production/revision of spec
20/12/2024
Educational aims of the programme
- The programme is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Employability, Digital Capabilities, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Sustainability and Resourcefulness and Resilience
- To assist students to develop a range of cognitive and social skills relevant to their intellectual, vocational and personal development.
- To create a learning environment that is receptive to the needs and views of students and encourages them to achieve their full potential, even while fostering an atmosphere where students as independent learners can take responsibility for their own learning processes.
- To develop students' capacity to think critically about events, ideas, people and institutions at local, national, regional and international levels, opening up their cultural and global horizons.
- To enable students to understand and use a range of concepts, approaches and methods appropriate to politics, and to develop an understanding of their contested nature and of the problematic character of political enquiry.
- To give students opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge and understanding to the resolution of real-life problems and so develop their skills in respect of professional as well as academic life.
- To provide a curriculum which encourages breadth and depth of intellectual enquiry and debate, supported by scholarship, a research culture, and staff reflection and development.
- To provide students with a foundation of knowledge and understanding of theory and analysis, and to encourage them to apply these issues in contemporary national and international affairs with a focus on public policymaking and decision-making.
- To understand and respect issues related to diversity and to employ a range of methods and approaches in relation to diverse needs.
Programme learning outcomes
| Attributes Developed | Awards | Ref. | |
| Demonstrate a critical advanced knowledge of key concepts, principles and theoretical approaches associated with the study of politics, international relations and public policy. | K | MPA | |
| Understand international structures of governance in depth, and their impact on regional, national and local structures, global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking | K | MPA | |
| Apply concepts, theories + methods at an advanced level used in the study of politics, international relations and public policy to the analysis of the political arena, and in doing so demonstrating advanced knowledge of the working of political systems at the national and international level. | KPT | MPA | |
| Develop detailed knowledge and understanding of contemporary debates within the field of public policy, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | KPT | MPA | |
| Understand the relationship between research and enquiry and their application to the study of public affairs. | K | MPA | |
| Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the relationship between argument and evidence in the discipline of politics and international relations. | K | MPA | |
| Gather, organise, and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety secondary and primary sources in an advanced way, analysing and synthesising from a wide range of material. | CT | MPA | |
| Demonstrate self-direction and originality in identifying, investigating, analysing, formulating and commending solutions to specified problems, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | CPT | MPA | |
| Construct reasoned argument, synthesize relevant information and exercise critical judgement in the articulation and application of evidence/data in an advanced fashion. | CPT | MPA | |
| Formulate research questions, and eventually design and conduct a research project, selecting appropriate methods of data collection and analysis, addressing issues of feasibility, sustainability, unintended consequences on global and social diversity and thinking about interconnectedness within society | P | MPA | |
| Deal with complex issues systematically and creatively also with sustainable thinking in mind, making sound judgments on the basis of incomplete information | C | MPA | |
| Reflect on self and peer learning. Seek and apply constructive feedback. | CPT | MPA | |
| Recognise the importance of demonstrating and good research skills, especially related to academic integrity and ethics. | CT | MPA | |
| Demonstrate an in dependent attitude to study which requires critical and reflective use of statistics and computer technology for learning purposes. | CP | MPA | |
| Demonstrate appropriate communication skills, both oral and written. | PT | MPA | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | T | MPA | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | T | MPA | |
| Work independently, demonstrate capacity for initiative, manage time and competing demands, emerge as a well-organised, self-critical and mature learner, ready to tackle problems in a globalised, networked, digital and sustainable thinking environment. | PT | MPA | |
| Show a capacity to collaborate with others in large or small groups in order to achieve clearly defined tasks. | T | MPA | |
| Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of key concepts, principles and theoretical approaches associated with the study of politics, international relations, and public policy. | K | BSc (Hons) | |
| Apply concepts, theories + methods at an advanced level used in the study of politics, international relations and public policy to the analysis of the political arena, and in doing so demonstrating advanced knowledge of the working of political systems at the national and international level. | KPT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Evaluate in an advanced fashion different interpretations of political issues, events and policies for national and international contexts, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | KPT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the relationship between argument and evidence in the discipline of politics, international relations and public policy. | K | BSc (Hons) | |
| Gather, organise, and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety secondary and primary sources in an advanced way. | CT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Identify, investigate, analyse, formulate and commend solutions to specified problems, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | CPT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Construct reasoned argument, synthesize relevant information and exercise critical judgement in the articulation and application of evidence/data in an advanced fashion. | CPT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Reflect on self and peer learning. Seek and apply constructive feedback. | CPT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Recognise the importance of demonstrating and good research skills, especially related to academic integrity and ethics. | CT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate an in dependent attitude to study which requires critical and reflective use of statistics and computer technology for learning purposes. | CP | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate appropriate communication skills, both oral and written | PT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | T | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | T | BSc (Hons) | |
| Work independently, demonstrate capacity for initiative, manage time and competing demands, emerge as a well-organised, self-critical and mature learner, ready to tackle problems in a globalised, networked, digital and sustainable thinking environment. | PT | BSc (Hons) | |
| Show a capacity to collaborate with others in large or small groups in order to achieve clearly defined tasks. | T | BSc (Hons) | |
| Demonstrate a breadth of knowledge of key concepts, principles and theoretical approaches associated with the study of politics international relations and public policy. | K | DipHE | |
| Apply concepts and theories + methods in a way that demonstrates a breadth of knowledge as used in the study of politics, international relations and public policy to the analysis of the political arena, and in doing so demonstrating a robust knowledge of the working of political systems at the national and international level. | KPT | DipHE | |
| Evaluate in a substantive fashion different interpretations of political issues, events and policies for national and international contexts, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | KPT | DipHE | |
| Demonstrate a robust understanding of the relationship between argument and evidence in the discipline of politics, international relations and public policy. | K | DipHE | |
| Gather, organise, and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety secondary and primary sources. | CT | DipHE | |
| Identify, investigate, and commend solutions to specified problems, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | CPT | DipHE | |
| Construct reasoned argument, synthesize relevant information and exercise critical judgement in the articulation and application of evidence/data in a substantive fashion. | CPT | DipHE | |
| Reflect on self and peer learning. Seek and apply constructive feedback. | CPT | DipHE | |
| Recognise the importance of demonstrating and good research skills, especially related to academic integrity and ethics. | CT | DipHE | |
| Demonstrate an in dependent attitude to study which requires critical and reflective use of statistics and computer technology for learning purposes. | CP | DipHE | |
| Demonstrate appropriate communication skills, both oral and written. | PT | DipHE | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | C | DipHE | |
| Work independently, demonstrate capacity for initiative, manage time and competing demands, ready to tackle problems in a globalised, networked, digital and sustainable thinking environment. | PT | DipHE | |
| Show a capacity to collaborate with others in large or small groups in order to achieve clearly defined tasks. | T | DipHE | |
| Demonstrate general knowledge of key concepts, principles and theoretical approaches associated with the study of politics, international relations and public policy. | K | CertHE | |
| Apply concepts and theories + methods in a way that demonstrates a general knowledge of the study of politics, international relations and public policy to the analysis of the political arena, and in doing so demonstrating good knowledge of the working of political systems at the national and international level. | KPT | CertHE | |
| Evaluate in an effective fashion different interpretations of political issues, events and policies for national and international contexts, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | KPT | CertHE | |
| Develop a solid understanding of the relationship between argument and evidence in the discipline of politics, international relations and public policy. | K | CertHE | |
| Gather, organise, and deploy evidence and information from a variety secondary sources. | CT | CertHE | |
| Identify and commend solutions to specified problems, reflecting on issues of global diversity, networked societies and sustainable thinking. | CPT | CertHE | |
| Construct reasoned argument, synthesize relevant information and exercise critical judgement in the articulation and application of evidence/data in a basic. | CPT | CertHE | |
| Reflect on self and peer learning. Seek and apply constructive feedback. | CPT | CertHE | |
| Recognise the importance of demonstrating and good research skills, especially related to academic integrity and ethics. | CT | CertHE | |
| Demonstrate an in dependent attitude to study which requires critical and reflective use of statistics and computer technology for learning purposes. | CP | CertHE | |
| Demonstrate appropriate communication skills, both oral and written. | PT | CertHE | |
| Demonstrate effective and appropriate use of computer and information technology, including audio-visual technology, for the retrieval and presentation of information and data. | C | CertHE | |
| Work independently, demonstrate capacity for initiative, manage time and competing demands, ready to tackle problems in a globalised, networked, digital and sustainable thinking environment. | PT | CertHE | |
| Show a capacity to collaborate with others in large or small groups in order to achieve clearly defined tasks. | T | CertHE |
Attributes Developed
C - Cognitive/analytical
K - Subject knowledge
T - Transferable skills
P - Professional/Practical skills
Programme structure
Full-time
This Integrated Master's Degree (Honours) programme is studied full-time over four academic years, consisting of 480 credits (120 credits at FHEQ levels 4, 5, 6 and 7). All modules are semester based and worth 15 credits with the exception of project, practice based and dissertation modules.
Possible exit awards include:
- Bachelor's Degree (Honours) (360 credits)
- Bachelor's Degree (Ordinary) (300 credits)
- Diploma of Higher Education (240 credits)
- Certificate of Higher Education (120 credits)
Full-time with PTY
This Integrated Master's Degree (Honours) programme is studied full-time over five academic years, consisting of 600 credits (120 credits at FHEQ levels 4, 5, 6, 7 and the optional professional training year). All modules are semester based and worth 15 credits with the exception of project, practice based and dissertation modules.
Possible exit awards include:
- Bachelor's Degree (Honours) (360 credits)
- Bachelor's Degree (Ordinary) (300 credits)
- Diploma of Higher Education (240 credits)
- Certificate of Higher Education (120 credits)
Programme Adjustments (if applicable)
N/A
Modules
Year 1 - FHEQ Level 4
Module Selection for Year 1 - FHEQ Level 4
NA
Year 2 - FHEQ Level 5
Module Selection for Year 2 - FHEQ Level 5
Choose 2 modules from the listed optional modules.
POL2027 - APPROACHES TO RESEARCH requires students to have obtained 55% or above in their final mark to select POL3061 DISSERTATION in the final year.
Year 3 - FHEQ Level 6
Module Selection for Year 3 - FHEQ Level 6
Students must choose six options of the optional modules available.
POL2027 - APPROACHES TO RESEARCH requires students to have obtained 55% or above in their final mark to select POL3061 DISSERTATION in the final year.
Year 4 - FHEQ Level 7
Module Selection for Year 4 - FHEQ Level 7
Students must choose four options out of the modules available.
Year 1 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 4
Module Selection for Year 1 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 4
NA
Year 2 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 5
Module Selection for Year 2 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 5
Choose 2 modules from the listed optional modules.
POL2027 - APPROACHES TO RESEARCH requires students to have obtained 55% or above in their final mark to select POL3061 DISSERTATION in the final year.
Year 3 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 6
Module Selection for Year 3 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 6
Students must choose six options of the optional modules available.
POL2027 - APPROACHES TO RESEARCH requires students to have obtained 55% or above in their final mark to select POL3061 DISSERTATION in the final year.
Professional Training Year (PTY) -
| Module code | Module title | Status | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLP025 | PROFESSIONAL TRAINING YEAR MODULE (FULL-YEAR WORK) | Core | 120 | Year-long |
| POLP026 | PROFESSIONAL TRAINING YEAR MODULE (WORK-STUDY 50/50) | Core | 120 | Year-long |
| POLP027 | PROFESSIONAL TRAINING YEAR MODULE (FULL-YEAR STUDY) | Core | 120 | Year-long |
Module Selection for Professional Training Year (PTY) -
Students must choose one of the above three modules.
Year 4 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 7
Module Selection for Year 4 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 7
Students must choose four options out of the modules available.
Opportunities for placements / work related learning / collaborative activity
| Associate Tutor(s) / Guest Speakers / Visiting Academics | Y | |
| Professional Training Year (PTY) | Y | |
| Placement(s) (study or work that are not part of PTY) | N | |
| Clinical Placement(s) (that are not part of the PTY scheme) | N | |
| Study exchange (Level 5) | Y | |
| Dual degree | N |
Other information
Students on our BSc Politics and BSc International Politics can transfer onto the MPA up until the end of FHEQ L5 or the end of the placement year (LP) as long as they meet the following criteria:
- They have taken the compulsory modules on the MPA at FHEQ L4 and L5
- They have achieved an average of 55% in each academic year.
Students on the MPA can transfer onto either the BSc Politics or BSc International Politics at FHEQ L4 or L5. As students on the MPA do the compulsory modules for both degree programmes they meet this requirement already. There is no average mark that they need to obtain to transfer.
Resourcefulness and resilience: Students are offered numerous opportunities for receiving support throughout their studies with the presence of a strong departmental network both in academic and pastoral terms. The programmes however are designed to increase students inquisitive nature and learn to go beyond their object of study, extend the scope of their knowledge and encouraged to challenge established knowledge. In this way, they develop a mindset based on grabbing opportunities, on seeking for alternative solutions, on leading the next generation of thinkers, and on standing on their own feet. Every module challenges conventional thinking, and offers a series of problems that require solutions. Hence, across the programme students learn to respond creatively, and with confidence, to opportunities, challenges and setbacks, find their own solutions with an increasing level of independence, and reflect and learn from their own experiences and from the world around them in social, political and economic terms.
Digital Capabilities: This programme offers a continuous engagement with the University's Virtual Learning Environment (SurreyLearn). Modules and assignments utilise SurreyLearn as a scaffolding platform that allows students to benefit from other digital resources, video content and online databases. The programme contains dedicated modules that facilitate the development of students as researchers, becoming well versed in statistics, visual analysis, qualitative content analysis, use of existing datasets and by extension, becoming well-versed in incorporating these tools in their own work (formative or summative). Within specific modules, online collaborative tools are encouraged as well as extensive training on our digital footprint in society and beyond, and the importance of digital capabilities in international affairs, modern democratic systems and policymaking processes.
Employability: All modules contain skills-based assignments and authentic assessment that helps students prepare for the real world and are designed with the feedback the Department receives from employers as to what they are looking for in graduates. The programme is designed as a to extend into postgraduate study, meaning the training in research methods prepares students for the job market. Exposure to R and other contemporary tools, preparation of policy briefs, simulation games, and direct engagement with practitioners through masterclasses and guest lectures means that students are acquiring a first-hand taste of the world beyond academia. The programme nurtures future leaders in politics and international relations, and public affairs more widely by developing critical thinking and analysis, applied skills in terms of methods and research design, high quality assessment of evidence and information, as well as generative thinking that can lead to innovative ideas and solution-driven graduates. The programme refreshes by default as it follows current affairs and political developments, so students remain always up to date. Finally, professional training opportunities are available to all students in between their second and final year as part of the PTY offering, alongside opportunities within the Department to engage in professional experience activities and projects.
Global and Cultural Capabilities: the nature of politics, international relations and public affairs more widely requires the development of global and cultural capabilities. Exploring issues that extend beyond domestic borders and jurisdictions, looking at transnational cooperation and dealing with issues of equality, diversity and inclusion, students are exposed to a spectrum of different opinions where they have to substantiate their point of view, demonstrate empathy for others' opinions and conditions, and debate contemporary issues that concern modern political dialogue. Discussions around inequalities, structural barriers, political traditions, policy styles and recognising the diversity of political systems across different parts of the world becomes central in the development of students' knowledge, and prominent lenses in completing assignments, reading, and other learning activities in the classroom and beyond. The programme benefits from the ability of students to take on a Professional Training Year opportunity and study and work anywhere in the world as they wish and according to University policy.
Sustainability: From the very beginning of their studies, students begin to consider the future of our societies within a political and international context and how decisions taken today may affect the world outlook tomorrow. Therefore, issues of sustainable societies are at the forefront, alongside the political aspects of global and transregional environmental problems that lead to conflict, migration, displacement, inequalities and availability of resources required for sustainable state, international system and global society. Students have the opportunity to further explore such issues in their own research project and benefit from the wider University opportunities for collaboration with relevant researchers and sustainability practitioners that are brought in as guests in many modules.
Quality assurance
The Regulations and Codes of Practice for taught programmes can be found at:
Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2025/6 academic year.