School of Economics and Public Policy
M.A. Public Policy and E-Governance
Why Choose M.A. Public Policy and E-Governance at RVU?
- What sets us apart from other programmes, is our commitment to developing a pedagogy and curriculum to prepare students to not just be policy analysts or policy practitioners, but change makers and leaders who will become problem solvers in the real world.
- Using an interdisciplinary approach that seeks to bridge international and domestic dynamics, this program equips students with skills to identify and analyse public policy
issues from a global and comparative perspective. - Students will engage in a wide range of topics, with a focus on public policy formulation, analysis and implementation, including the design and execution of delivery systems.
- Specific emphasis will be on the emerging technologies for the digital transformation of governance in response to global challenges of social, demographic, economic, and climate changes.
Learning Outcomes
Throughout the two-year Master’s program in Public Policy, students will:
- Explore and apply a wide range of public policy concepts and theories, gaining a deep understanding of the field.
- Critically assess the diverse challenges and processes involved in policy-making across different global contexts.
- Develop a multi-disciplinary perspective on public policy, including insights into international development.
- Investigate the successes and failures of public policies at both national and global levels, learning from real-world examples.
- Evaluate complex policy issues and the strategies designed to address them, focusing on the challenges of program implementation.
- Cultivate essential leadership skills, preparing to become transformative leaders and agents of change in their chosen career paths.
Programme Structure
The MA in Public Policy is an 80-credit, two-year, full-time postgraduate program structured across four semesters, with field engagements integrated throughout the duration. Students must complete the required core courses and have the flexibility to specialise through various electives and open courses.
| Semester I | Credit | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Public Policy | 4 | Core |
| Law and Legal Systems | 3 | Core |
| Micro Economics for Public Policy | 3 | Core |
| Public Problem Solving | 2 | Core |
| Science, Technology and Innovation Policy | 3 | Core |
| Research Methods -1 | 3 | Core |
| Elective: Markets, Governments and Policy Design | 1 | Elective |
| Open Electives | 1 | Elective |
| Total | 20 |
| Semester II | Credit | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Health Policy and Systems Research | 3 | Core |
| Data Analytics for Public Policy – I | 3 | Core |
| Macro Economics for Public Policy | 3 | Core |
| Policy Formulation and Policy Analysis | 4 | Core |
| Observing and Engaging Cities | 2 | Core |
| Research Methods – 2 | 3 | Core |
| Elective: Geo-Politics and Foreign Policy | 1 | Elective |
| Open Electives | 1 | Elective |
| Total | 20 |
| Semester III | Credit | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Public Services in the Digital Age | 4 | Core |
| Public Finance and Budget Studies | 4 | Core |
| Gender Mainstreaming | 3 | Core |
| Field Research Orientation & Proposal Presentation | 1 | |
| Specialisation: (Choose 2) | 6 | |
|
||
| Skill Lab | 2 | |
| Total | 20 |
| Skill Lab (Choose any two, 1 credit each) | Credit |
|---|---|
| Academic Writing | 1 |
| Research Software Tools | 1 |
| Effective Communication and Media Engagement | 1 |
| Sectoral Policy Analysis Workshop | 1 |
| Development Consulting | 1 |
| Semester IV | Credit | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| International Exchange/Internship | 4 | 3-4 weeks |
| Field Research | 6 | 8 weeks |
| Dissertation | 6 | |
| Documentation and Journaling | 2 | |
| Viva (for both internship and dissertation) | 2 | |
| Total | 20 |
Semester IV in the MA in Public Policy program, involves activities beyond the classroom:
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International Exchange/Internship
This component is for 4 credits and lasts between 3 to 4 weeks. It provides students with practical experience in a public policy setting, either locally or internationally, helping them apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context.
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Field Research
Field research is for 6 credits and lasts for 8 weeks. Students engage in field research, collecting data and gaining hands-on experience in public policy analysis, often working on real-world challenges, urban spaces, or in rural areas to address practical problems.
-
Dissertation
The dissertation is worth 6 credits. This component involves independent, in-depth research on a specific public policy topic and serves as a major academic project for students, where they apply their learning to produce original research.
-
Documentation and Journaling
This component is worth 2 credits and involves keeping a detailed record of the student’s experiences, reflections, and learning outcomes throughout their internship and research projects. It helps students track their progress and critically assess their learning journey.
-
Viva (for both Internship and Dissertation)
The Viva is for 2 credits and involves an oral examination where students present and defend their research for both the internship and dissertation. It tests their knowledge, critical thinking, and ability to discuss their work.
In total, these courses amount to 20 credits in Semester IV.
Assessment and Grading
- Continuous Internal Evaluation through tests and presentations for 70 marks;
- Semester End Evaluation through written examination or submission for 30 marks.
Global Perspectives
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Global Policy Insights
Gain valuable exposure to global policy insights, cutting-edge frameworks, and best practices, delivered by renowned thought leaders from around the world.
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Beyond the Classroom
Gain the skills to identify and evaluate real-world public issues through practical experience, engaging with state institutions and exploring the dynamics between citizens and public organizations.
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Professional Development
Embark on a transformative journey of intellectual discovery, exploring the complexities of statecraft, diplomacy, and public policy with leading experts in governance and academia.
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21st Century Skills
Develop practical, real-world skills for designing, implementing, and evaluating effective policies. Through immersive, hands-on experiences, sharpen your expertise and gain a competitive edge in your career.
Research Opportunities
At RVU, students have access to a wide range of Research Centres, offering abundant opportunities to deepen their research and analytical skills and accelerate their career growth. At SoEPP, students can undertake research at the following Centres:
- Centre for Global Health and Development
- Centre for Contemporary Economics
- Centre for Research in Education Studies and Training
A Vibrant Learning Community
Engage with peers from diverse backgrounds to broaden your perspectives and enrich your understanding.
Eligibility & Selection Criteria
| Programme | National Eligibility test / State Eligibility test if any | Eligibility | Selection Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.A | None | Undergraduate degree from any discipline (math knowledge till class 12 preferred) | Interview for all candidates |
Careers in Public Policy in India
- Policy Analyst
- Policy Advisor
- Public Policy Consultant
- Public Policy Manager/Welfare Officer
- Researcher
- Bureaucrat/diplomat
- Monitoring and Impact Evaluation Specialist
- Roles in Corporate Social Responsibility
- Government Affairs Officer with Corporates
- National and international NGOs
- Communication Specialist
How To Apply
Complete Online Application
Select the course and fill out the application form. Apply online https://admissions.rvu.edu.in/
RVU Selection Process
Complete the course-based selection process
Selection Letter Issued
Subject to fulfillment of eligibility and admission process
Programme Registration
On receipt of registration fee as specified in the selection letter
Provisional Admission Letter
Issued upon completion of the selection process
Collaborations and Partnerships
Academics
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Faculty
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