Short course

Democracy, Governance and Participation

Start date
February 2024
Duration
8 weeks
Time commitment
12-15 hours per week
Mode
Online
Cost
£1,250
Level
Postgraduate microcredential

Delivered by the Institute of Local Government Studies (INLOGOV), the UK’s leading academic centre for research and teaching on local governance and strategic public management, this 8-week short course explores the theories that influence representative democracy and the challenges in changing societies around the world.

By learning about new forms of participation and models of government, you will be able to develop an awareness of how and when to use different approaches that will allow you to better lead and manage change within organisations.

Once you have finished the 8-week course, you will be awarded an official University of Birmingham postgraduate micro-credential certificate (worth 10 academic credits) and a transcript. You will be able to use these academic credits to apply for advanced entry to the University of Birmingham’s full Online Masters of Public Administration (MPA) qualification.

Why study this course?

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Explain the theories which underpin representative democracy and traditional patterns of participation
  • Analyse and compare changing relationships between citizens and government in different contexts
  • Identify emergent ways of engaging citizens in governance, including an awareness of how and when to use different approaches to participation
  • Critically evaluate the crisis of democracy, the potential of the participatory turn and impact of the different participatory practices.

Ready to apply? Request more information and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the application process with you.

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Fees

The cost to study this online course is £1,250*. This must be paid in full by card before enrolling.

The programme fee includes access to the online learning platform, course materials and digital reading materials. The fee does not include any personal expenses for new technical equipment or office supplies.

If, after completing the course, you wish to transfer to the full Online MPA programme, please speak to your Student Services Co-ordinator. You will need to re-submit an application, and the cost of any short courses you’ve taken will be deducted from the full programme fee.

* Prices are subject to change each academic year.

How to apply

To be eligible to apply for a short course, you will need to have obtained (or be predicted to obtain) an upper second-class degree or postgraduate diploma from a UK university, OR an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Professional applications may also be considered. Please speak to a Recruitment Co-ordinator to discuss your eligibility.

Application checklist:

  • Complete an application form online.
  • Supply an up-to-date CV and any other supporting documents demonstrating your academic and work experience, plus any other skills that may support your application. These will help us to ensure you have the right experience for the course.
  • Submit your most recent degree certificate from your previous institution, so we can verify your education.
  • Supply an up-to-date English language certificate if English is not your first language. We accept up-to-date IELTS certificates with a score of 6.5, and no less than 6.0 in any of the elements.

Request information

To be eligible to apply for a short course, you will need to have obtained (or be predicted to obtain) an upper second-class degree or postgraduate diploma from a UK university, OR an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Professional applications may also be considered. Please speak to a Recruitment Co-ordinator to discuss your eligibility.

Drawing on public sector insights from the Institute of Local Government Studies (INLOGOV), this short course equips you with the practical experience to further your career, whether that’s a move into a senior government or agency position or the development of an existing role in public service.

Crucially, this course enables you to master the core skills necessary to effect societal change and make a genuine impact on people’s lives.

After completing this course, you will be in a prime position for a range of roles, including those within local councils and educational institutes or as a senior policy officer, social services manager or member of parliament.

Why choose a postgraduate micro-credential short course?

  • Boost your CV in just eight weeks
  • Develop the specialist skills you need for your career goals
  • Gain an introduction to our Online MPA
  • Get a taster of online learning before committing to a full MPA degree
  • Earn a postgraduate micro-credential certificate worth 10 masters credits
  • Study around your existing commitments with 100% online learning
  • Expand your expertise at a top-100 University
  • Join a community of like-minded learners from over 50 different countries

Learners will be fully registered University of Birmingham students and will be entitled to normal University services (including library and IT resources).

Request information

Your future starts here

Call +44 (0)800 032 7101 to speak with a Recruitment co-ordinator.