This module provides an introduction to the policy process and practical activities involved in policy development. It is aimed at a broad audience with...

Knowledge Systems, Public Policy and Management (STEP0013)

This module provides an introduction to the policy process and practical activities involved in policy development. It is aimed at a broad audience with varying levels of experience in public policy, and across science, technology and engineering fields.

The module presents a global perspective on the contexts, processes and practices for policymaking. To do this, the module draws from diverse disciplinary perspectives including public policy, politics, sociology, science and technology studies and history. The course content and assessments will give you the conceptual and analytical tools, and practical skills to grapple with the complex challenges faced by policymakers.

Two themes run throughout the course. First, policy as negotiation between rationality and politics. Second, the distinct challenges and opportunities encountered when making policy for science, technology, and engineering-related issues. The primary assessment is a 5-day scenario exercise in the final week of term.

To enable students to apply statistical and computational tools, techniques and methodologies to real-world problems in the area of official/government...

Dissertation (MSc Data Analytics for Government) (STAT0033)

To enable students to apply statistical and computational tools, techniques and methodologies to real-world problems in the area of official/government statistics and to present their findings in a written report, and orally via an assessed presentation.

 On successful completion of the course, a student should be able to plan a suitable schedule for completing an extended project; obtain or access relevant background information and data; select and apply appropriate formal and informal statistical methods, using computer software as appropriate; assess what has been achieved and point to further research; use appropriate word processing skills to write up a project dissertation efficiently; and communicate findings both technically and non-technically, in a word processed dissertation and an oral presentation.