This MSc focuses on the design, creation, and operation of democratic institutions. Students gain an understanding of when a given set of institutes are appropriate for a society and what will make them function, and how scholars have thought about these matters, applying theory to examples of institution-building and design. Students are equipped with the theoretical tools and empirical evidence necessary for an in-depth understanding of democratic institutions and politics. They develop an understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of different institutional designs, reforms, and administrative practices, and are able to analyse problems raised by new and reforming democracies. The programme is aimed at future and current policymakers, analysts and researchers from both the public and private sector. Applicants should have a background in a relevant area, for example: economics, histor, international relations, law, philosophy, politics, political science or sociology.