Module overview
This module introduces key theories and models in the study of public policy and seeks to encourage a critical appreciation of the main trends in contemporary public policy-making. It links policy theory with practical skills of analysis and advocacy.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Identify and evaluate the processes involved in developing policy in its different stages
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Use the critical tools of policy analysis to appraise the strengths and weaknesses of specific policies and how they were developed
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Use a sophisticated understanding of the policy process to promote practical policy solutions
Syllabus
The study of public policy has been one of the key fields in political science, drawing however on many other social science disciplines, such as economics, law, sociology and social psychology. The past two decades have witnessed considerable changes in public policies, whether in the field of economic, law and order or social policy. This course pays particular attention to underlying theories of policy-making and policy analysis rather than substantive policy domains and encourages cross-national and cross-sectoral comparison. The syllabus covers topics such as:
- Agenda-setting and policy framing
- Evidence-based policymaking
- Participation in the policy process
- Implementation
- Multi-level policymaking
- Wicked policy problems
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching will be 2 hours of lectures per week. All will be recorded and posted on Blackboard. Lectures will be delivered either face to face or online only depending upon University and Public Health England Guidance at the time. Total of 24 hours of lectures (2 hours per week X 12 weeks) per module.
Weekly student participation in online discussion boards. 1 hour per week delivered asynchronously. (1 hour X 12 weeks)
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Workshops | 36 |
| Independent Study | 114 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Discussion board activity | 25% |
| Research proposal | 25% |
| Research project | 50% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External