Government, Policy and Society

Our Government, Policy and Society programme is designed for students interested in:

* the content of public policy

* the process by which policy is made

* the impact of policy on society

Decision-making in government

You will examine how politicians and civil servants make decisions and how they are restricted by resource constraints, such as:

* developments in the global economy

* market forces and existing institutions

Shaping social policies

You will explore how crucial areas of social policy are shaped, such as:

* health

* education

* inequality

* welfare

* employment

You will study the relationship between government and society, and explore the ways in which various non-governmental actors try to influence policy. You will also engage with the core debates on how to develop societies positively that divide political opinion.

This programme makes use of interdisciplinary learning to help you understand the interactions of multiple levels of government in the policy process.

Examining social sciences

You will engage with core concepts from diverse social science disciplines such as:

* political science

* social policy

* sociology

* economics

* public administration

You can then specialise in the specific policy areas that interest you.

Why Edinburgh?

Our expertise spans Scotland, the UK, the European Union, and international governments, as well as the connections between these levels. Learning about the workings of government and the development of policy in Edinburgh, the capital of a powerful sub-state, is a highly enriching experience. The University is on the doorstep of one of the most powerful sub-national governments and parliaments in the world. We are deeply embedded in a very open and vibrant public policy community.