PP478E      Half Unit
Political Science and Public Policy

This information is for the 2022/23 session.

Teacher responsible

Dr Livia Schubiger

Dr Ali Cirone

 

Availability

This course is compulsory on the Executive Master of Public Administration and Executive Master of Public Policy. This course is not available as an outside option.

Pre-requisites

There are no pre-requisites, but recommended advance reading is given below.

Course content

This course introduces students to core concepts and problems in politics and policymaking. Among the questions we address: What determines political preferences and electoral outcomes? How are interests represented? How do political institutions shape policy outcomes? We focus on tools that students should be able to apply broadly in analyzing the political world.

Teaching

A one-week modular teaching block. This course is delivered through a combination of classes and lectures delivered in one week.

Formative coursework

One mock examination will be provided.

Indicative reading

Analyzing Politics: Rationality, Behavior and Instititutions by Kenneth Shepsle (W.W. Norton, 2nd edition, 2010) is an excellent starting point and reference for many topics. A full reading list will be distributed at the beginning of the course.

Assessment

Essay (50%, 2000 words) and online assessment (50%).

Please note that online assessments take place on the third Sunday after the module teaching concludes. Assessed essays are due on the sixth Friday after module teaching concludes. Further details will be provided at the Executive MPA/ Executive MPP programme inductions.

Student performance results

(2018/19 - 2020/21 combined)

Classification % of students
Distinction 19.3
Merit 77.2
Pass 3
Fail 0.5

Key facts

Department: School of Public Policy

Total students 2021/22: Unavailable

Average class size 2021/22: Unavailable

Controlled access 2021/22: No

Value: Half Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Course selection videos

Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.

Personal development skills

  • Problem solving
  • Communication