This pioneering doctorate will enhance professional capability and critical reflection on the theories, methods and practices of policymaking. This course is designed to enable experienced professionals working in a range of policy arenas – locally, nationally, and globally – to develop their policy analysis expertise without having to take a full career break. Combining advanced training in policy research and analysis with a thesis based on original research, it is based on a cohort model and can be spread out over four to six years.

Throughout the course, you will have access to a wide range of sector-specific expertise across the University, including industrial strategy, international development, health, education and digital public policy.

This is a part-time distance-learning course including face-to-face teaching on a two-week residential, this year held at the end of August and early September. The course is designed to be compatible with near full-time employment over a period of up to six years with the possibility of being completed more quickly for high-performing students who can allocate more time to study.

Most students complete this programme in 5 years. You cannot take less than 4 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 8 years.