• You will develop the knowledge and skills you need to address leadership challenges in an uncertain and changing fiscal and political environment, helping to bolster your career prospects and opportunities for promotion.
• You will be able to identify and evaluate the commercial opportunities in the public sector with consideration for your own service.
• You will be able to respond to a raft of performance challenges facing your organisation through the strategic application of theories, concepts, and frameworks.

Core modules

• Public Management and Governance (20 Credits)
• Leadership in Public Services (20 Credits)
• Performance, Strategy and Challenge (20 Credits)
• Public Policy and Evidence (20 Credits)
• Dissertation (60 Credits)

Optional modules

• Commercialisation of Public Services (20 Credits)
• Strategic Commissioning (20 Credits)
• Public Sector Economics (20 Credits)
• Digital Era Public Policy (20 Credits)

Part time
MSc  £5,085 (yr. 1 and 2)
PGDip £3,390  (yr. and 2)
PG Cert £3,390
ILM pathway £3,390 (yr. 1 and 2)

Please check with the Department for the latest fees information.

Learn more about fees and funding.

Scholarships and studentships
Scholarships may be available. For further information contact the School directly or visit studenthelp.bham.ac.uk 

Students should normally have at least an upper second class (2.1) degree from a UK university or equivalent in any subject. However professional qualifications and relevant experience will be considered where relevant.

Students with the level 7 ILM qualification in Leadership and Management will enter the programme with 60 credits. The ILM qualification has been deemed equivalent to two core modules on this programme: Leadership in Public Services and Performance Strategy and Challenge, and the optional module Strategic Commissioning.

Learn more about entry requirements.

Making your application

When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages

Apply now

Typically modules are assessed through a variety of essay-based and task-orientated assignments. Each module will include at least one or more assignments, equivalent to a total of 4000 words per module. From the outset, we will provide you with clear guidance on assessed work, the marking criteria and deadlines. You will also receive personalised tutorial support throughout the programme to help you get the most out of your studies with us. At Masters level you will be expected to do an extended research project (a dissertation) of between 10,000-12,000 words and this can be linked to activities in your workplace. You will be assigned a dedicated supervisor to help guide you through the process of designing, researching and writing your dissertation.