1. What do you like most about your course?

I am studying MSc Evaluation and Policy Analysis at a time when the evaluation of public policy is becoming increasingly common and social problems are recognised as ever more complex. This means that some traditional methods of policymaking and evaluation are being called into question and alternative approaches need to be explored.

For me, one of the highlights of the MSc is therefore the opportunity to investigate the concept of complexity from both theoretical and practical perspectives. In addition to this, I am also developing the skills needed to apply my understanding of key theories and approaches to contemporary policy problems such as climate change, global inequality and criminal justice.

2. What made you choose Manchester Met?

Being based in Nottingham and working full time, I was looking for a course that would allow me to balance professional and personal commitments. Since the course at Manchester Met was specifically designed for this purpose, it was a very good fit for me, and I have been able to continue working and studying simultaneously. The fact that the course is delivered as a mixture of online classes, plus face-to-face sessions on campus is also really beneficial and I have been able to develop good relationships with the students and leaders on my course.

3. What were your lecturers like and how did they help you to succeed throughout your course?

Teaching is delivered by experts working in the Policy and Evaluation Research Unit (PERU) based at Manchester Met and the opportunity to work with experienced evaluators in a range of fields has been incredibly valuable. During seminars and group discussions we have the opportunity as students to learn directly from academics who are applying the methodologies they teach about. This means our discussions are always rooted in real-world scenarios.

4. What skills do you feel you have gained/developed during your studies at Manchester Met? How do you think these will help you in your future studies or career?

Through the MSc I have studied a range of traditional and contemporary methods of policy evaluation and analysis that I can now apply to the projects I work on at Research Consulting. Outside of my studies, in my role as a Senior Associate Consultant, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a range of consultancy projects for clients including government departments, research funders, universities, academic publishers and more. While all of these organisations are very different, one common feature is the complexity of the environments they operate in and how they interact with each other. This degree is therefore able to complement the work I am doing at Research Consulting, by providing me with the knowledge and skills needed to unpick this complexity, critically assess methodologies and approaches, and design appropriate evaluations.

Find out more about MSc Evaluation and Policy Analysis.