Course summary

In a climate of shrinking budgets, shifting priorities, and growing division, what makes a policy successful? How do we ensure that every voice is heard — and that our public policies are relevant, inclusive, and impactful? This course has been designed for a new generation of policymakers, analysts, and advocates. Guided by practitioners from the diverse worlds of government, grant-writing, project-management, youth outreach, gender politics, and international security, you’ll examine the concepts, trends and methodologies of public policy. Participating in group simulations, you’ll explore the roles of different stakeholders. And ultimately, you’ll apply your skills and knowledge in the wild, working with your peers to solve a real-world problem. Policymaking is a science, and an art — a combination of good data and great storytelling. Our course reflects that duality, bringing together theoretical rigour, critical reflection, and a strong focus on experiential learning. You’ll develop academically, but also as an all-round communicator; someone who can engage stakeholders, build and manage key relationships, and navigate the policymaking process with resilience, confidence, and creativity. That’s how our global community of graduates progress into fields as varied as journalism, lobbying, policy planning, and consultancy — right here in Nottingham, across the UK, and all around the world.