Public Administration (MPA)

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in social sciences, economics, history or a related field.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

The master’s in Public Administration takes place over 1 year, across 2 semesters. It includes 6 modules and a dissertation.

You’ll study modules that give you a thorough grounding in the academic study of public administration. Later in your course you’ll be able to choose modules that interest you from across our social sciences subjects.

You’ll also undertake a module that prepares you for the dissertation. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

As well as lectures and student-led seminars you’ll experience a range of teaching and learning formats, including:

• problem-solving workshops
• case analysis
• supervised independent research
• independent study

The majority of modules are taught as seminars where you can discuss the topics you’re learning about in small groups.

You'll also prepare papers and lead seminar discussions to develop your verbal and written communication skills.

Assessment

We’ll assess you using written assessment exercises including:

• independent research papers
• critical literature reviews
• case analyses

Depending on the module, we may assess you on your individual and group presentations. If you're studying the 20-month course, we’ll assess your placement through a reflective journal and final, written report.

Dissertation

You’ll complete a 12,500 to 15,000 word dissertation to demonstrate the knowledge and research skills you’ve gained during the course. 

Your supervisor will provide regular advice, guidance and feedback on your progress.

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

On this Public Administration course you'll gain the skills and knowledge to pursue roles within the civil service and local government.

You'll be in the ideal position to consider a PhD in public administration or a related field. You’ll also be able to work as a manager or analyst in the public, charity and private sectors.

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £18,812.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK and EU nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through our online form by using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000