Admissions Open 2024

M.A. Public Policy

M.A. Public Policy

TWO YEARS PROGRAMME

About The Programme

The M.A. Public Policy programme offered by Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) is an interdisciplinary programme that prepares students to navigate complex policy environments. The M.A. in Public Policy and Governance programme covers a broad range of contemporary political, economic and social issues and offers students a strong theoretical foundation and practical experience to address them.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary analytical and managerial skills required to be effective in the policy-making process. Graduates of M.A. Public Policy can pursue a wide range of career paths in public service, non-profit organisations, and the private sector. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on experience, and exposure to the real-world policy-making process, students are prepared to become future policymakers and public leaders.

Scope of M.A. in Public Policy

A unique degree that prepares you to lead and change in the complex and dynamic policy environment.

An interdisciplinary perspective on public policy, focusing on developing economies.

World-class faculty and experts providing theoretical knowledge, analytical skills, and practical exposure.

A range of skill based and theoretical electives across major policy domains to tailor your learning to your interests and goals.

A master’s dissertation or capstone project to apply your learning to a real-world policy problems with faculty guidance.

Career opportunities in public and private sectors, academia, civil society, and media as a policy analyst, consultant, researcher, manager, advocate, etc.

What Makes It Different at JGU

As the first public policy school in India to offer a 2-year full-time M.A. in Public Policy programme, JSGP provides a unique opportunity to students to gain a deep understanding of public policy issues and to learn practical skills that can be applied to solve policy problems. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to make a positive impact on society and contribute to the public good.

Unique opportunity to work on a Capstone Project with reputable organizations to work on real-world projects
Access to cutting-edge research and innovative ideas through research centers and student-led initiatives at JSGP
Academic networks and collaborations with top global universities

To be eligible for the M.A. Public Policy programme at Jindal School of Government and Public Policy, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a UGC recognised university in India or abroad, and there is no work experience requirement or age limit. Even those who will complete their bachelor’s degree in 2022 are eligible to apply.

Selection for the programme will be done through a two-round admissions process, which will include a closed book examination followed by a faculty interview.

M.A. Public Policy Course Structure 2024
Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3Semester 4
Introduction to PPPolitical Philosophy for PPPolicy Action LabCapstone
Econ Found of PP – I (Micro)Econ Found of PP – I (Macro)Public Financeor
Social Found of PPResearch Design and Survey AnalysisState, Governance and PolicyDissertation
Qualitative Research MethodProgram Design and Evaluation3 Electives
(2 JSGP must,
1 non-JSGP allowed)
or
Stats and Quant Analysis2 Electives
(1 JSGP must,
1 non-JSGP allowed)
  
Academic Writing  2 Electives
(1 JSGP must,
1 non-JSGP allowed)
    
= 4.0 * 6 = 24 credits= 4.0 * 6 = 24 credits= 4.0 * 6 = 24 credits8 credits
Internships for 2023 batch = 6 non- academic credits (2/internship) Minimum Total credits: 80
  • Gender and Economic Development
  • Science Technology Studies
  • Urban Governance from a Practitioner’s perspective
  • Examining Higher Education Policy
  • Applied Econometrics
  • Intermediate Data Science
  • Comparative Politics: Theories, Methods, and Practices
  • AI in Public Policy and Economics
  • Comparative Political Economy of Welfare
  • Narrative Public Policy
  • Sustainable food water and energy governance
  • Thinking in Systems: A strategy for Sustainable Development Policy
  • Legal Empowerment of the poor
  • Bollywood Cinema and Labour
  • Coolies and capitalism
  • International Political Economy (WTO, WIPO, IMF, WB)
  • Education Policy in India: Frameworks, Institutions and Processes
  • Comparative Health Policy and Systems
  • Politics and Development in India
  • GIS for policy analysis
  • Rural Economy
  • Growth, Development, and Employment: Data systems in India
  • Introduction to Health Economics
  • Advanced econometrics
  • Labour Market and Migration
  • Political Economy of Agriculture
  • Statistical Analysis using R
  • Advanced Mathematical Tools
  • Theories of Economic Inequality
  • Growth Empirics and Policy
  • Time Series Analysis
  • Empirical Development Economics
  • Experimental Economics
  • Environmental and Ecological Economics
  • Advanced Topics in Statistics and Data Analysis with Stata
  • Quantum Like framework in economics
  • Economics of Discrimination
  • Public Finance
  • Competition Policy

JSGP recognises the importance of internships in preparing students for a successful career in public policy. That’s why the school has a dedicated team of faculty and staff to assist students in obtaining internships that align with their interests and career goals. Students are required to complete two to three internships, providing them with hands-on experience in the development and public policy sectors.

The M.A. Public Policy programme equips graduates to work in a wide range of fields, including development and public policy organizations, CSR initiatives, academic institutions, think tanks, NGOs, media, and political organisations. JSGP alumni have gone on to successful careers in prestigious organisations such as the UNDP, World Health Organisation (Geneva), NITI Aayog, Centre for Policy Research, PRATHAM, Teach for India, Observer Research Foundation, CUTS-Jaipur Public Policy Division, Centre for Public Policy Research (Kochi), Centre for Budget and Government Accountability (CBGA), Centre for Budget and Policy Studies (CBPS), and Public Affairs Centre (Bengaluru).

JSGP is a vibrant and active hub of student-led initiatives and clubs that foster critical thinking, policy debates, and social entrepreneurship. SOCH is one such student-driven initiative that organises regular screenings of documentaries and films followed by discussions on issues related to politics, society, and international relations. Similarly, Policy Corner is an online writing platform where students discuss local, national, and global policy issues with a wider audience, providing a platform for debate and deliberation. The Public Policy Club provides students with hands-on experience in applying theoretical learning to real-life challenges, while Enactus fosters socially responsible entrepreneurship among JSGP students, empowering them to create sustainable business plans that address some of the most pressing problems of the world.

These student-led initiatives not only enrich the academic experience of JSGP students but also contribute to their personal and professional development.

FAQ's

1. What is the scope of a Masters in Public Policy in India?

A Masters in Public Policy in India is a highly sought-after degree that prepares students for careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Graduates of Masters in Public Policy programmes are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyse and address complex policy issues. They can work in a variety of roles, including policy analysts, research associates, consultants, and programme managers.

2. What are the best universities for an M.A. in Public Policy and Governance in India?

Some of the best universities for an M.A. in Public Policy and Governance in India include:

Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP), O.P. Jindal Global University: JSGP is a leading institution for public policy education in India. The school’s M.A. Public Policy programme is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong alumni network.
National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP): NIPFP is a premier research institution in India that also offers an M.A. Public Policy programme. The programme is known for its focus on economic policy and its strong research orientation.
Centre for Policy Research (CPR): CPR is a leading think tank in India that offers an M.A. Public Policy programme in collaboration with Ashoka University. The programme is known for its emphasis on practical policy analysis and its strong connections to the policymaking community.

3. What is the course structure for the Masters in Public Policy at JSGP?

The M.A. Public Policy programme at JSGP is a two-year programme that consists of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The core courses provide students with a foundation in public policy theory and analysis. The electives allow students to specialise in areas of their interest, such as development policy, environmental policy, or social policy. The capstone project is a hands-on research project that allows students to apply their knowledge to a real-world policy issue.

4. What are the career opportunities available after a Masters degree in Public Policy?

Graduates of M.A. Public Policy programme have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can work in a variety of roles in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Some of the specific career paths that graduates may choose include:

Policy analyst: Policy analysts analyze public policy issues and develop recommendations for policymakers.
Research associate: Research associates conduct research on public policy issues and prepare reports for policymakers and researchers.
Consultant: Consultants provide expert advice to governments, businesses, and non-profit organisations on public policy issues.
Programme manager: Programme managers oversee the implementation of public policy programmes.