Philosophy, Public Policy and Social Change MA

This dynamic route of the Philosophy MA immerses you in philosophical debates about the design and ethical implications of public policies, and how to measure and effect change. Taught by UCL’s renowned departments of Philosophy and Political Science, the Philosophy, Public Policy and Social Change route will teach you a raft of transferable skills for a range of professional careers. You’ll learn in the heart of London, home to one of the largest and most varied philosophical communities in the world, and join a lively intellectual circle.About this degreeThe Philosophy, Public Policy and Social Change route of the Philosophy MA programme will provide you with the ability to analyse the design and ethical orientations of a range of public policies using core philosophical skills in argumentation, critical reading, and clear and precise writing. Students who successfully complete the MA will have developed a detailed understanding of a range of central philosophical debates related to ethical trade-offs in the design of policies, and how to measure and effect change. A diverse range of module options are available, which will allow you to explore your own interests.Who this course is forThe MA route is open to graduates from all disciplines who are interested in thinking philosophically about public policy and social change. We would expect you to have some prior background or interest in either philosophy, or public policy, or effecting social change, whether through academic study, employment, or lived experience.If you are a Philosophy graduate who is aiming to develop a career in academic philosophy, you can consider applying for the two-year Philosophical Studies MPhil Stud, which is the route to the PhD at UCL.EmployabilityGraduates from this MA route will be able to think rigorously and creatively about the principles that underpin attempts to make positive improvements, whether through government action, business or the non-profit sector. These skills are sought after by employers both in the public and private sectors.