Education
The master’s and PhD programmes, the research and training activities cover a wide range of topics and issues ranging from good governance to technical aspects of policy financing. All of the School’s academic activities share an analytical approach to policy problems and theoretical problems relevant to policy design and implementation.
The master’s programme offers specialisations in Social Protection Policy, Foreign Policy and Development, Migration Studies, Risk and Vulnerability, Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance, Governance of Innovation, and Social Entrepreneurship and Public Policy.
The PhD programmes focus on research methods and advanced training in policy analysis and its underlying disciplines.
- Master's programme
- PhD programmes
- Short courses
- Evidence-Based Policy Research Methods
- Migration Management Diploma Programme
- Online courses
MSc in Public Policy and Human Development
The Master of Science (MSc) in Public Policy and Human Development emphasises the connection between public policy and decision-making processes, or more specifically, the effectiveness and efficiency of governance. Students are equipped with a variety of skills, tools and knowledge which enable them to work as policy designers and policy analysts within public and private institutions at local, national and international levels.
I want to help others and I want to make an impact
We welcome highly motivated individuals who are aiming to use public policy to solve real-life problems and are committed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
Public policy issues are growing in complexity and there’s an increasing interconnectedness between local, national and international levels of decision making and implementation. This can be seen in current public policy concerns such as:
- the role of universities in local development
- the impact of migration policies
- healthcare access for children in developing countries
- mitigation of the effects of global warming
- the conflict of China's economic growth and its sustainable development
- the watchdog role of the media
Due to the increasing complexity of the issues, there is a growing need for specialists in policy analysis who have a combination of technical skills as well as theoretical and specific area knowledge.
The programme consists of two semesters. The first is the same for all students and focuses on the theories and practice of governance and policy analysis. During the second semester, students choose from several specialisations.
Students who successfully complete the programme receive a Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development, a double degree issued by Maastricht University and the United Nations University. This is a one-year programme taught in English, from 1 September through 31 August.
- Receive a Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development
- One-year programme
- Taught in English
- Receive a double degree issued by Maastricht University and the United Nations University
Short courses (Masters)
The Master Programme in Public Policy and Human Development is organised in such a way that students can also enroll in some courses separately. Most courses run for 4 weeks (some longer) and are concluded with a written exam and/or assignment. Students receive a certificate and credits for every course completed successfully.