The MRes (Government and Public Policy) is a part-time programme, running for 24 months from the date of first registration for the programme. Students complete three modules, two modules during Year 1 and one module during the first semester of Year 2. The final semester in Year 2 is devoted to completion of the 25,000 word thesis.

A candidate who is the holder of a degree or other professional qualification or appropriate relevant experience and who has a minimum of three years' professional business/administrative experience is eligible for the MRes (Government and Public Policy) Degree, subject to the approval of the Graduate Studies Committee. A limited number of places are available.

A candidate for the MRes Degree in Government and Public Policy must:
a. complete and pass 20 credits of modules;
b. undertake research in a topic agreed with the Department;
c. present a thesis on an approved topic;
d. present for an oral examination on the subject matter of his/her thesis (if required by the Department).

Core modules
GV6118 Political Science Research Methods (10 credits)
GV6125 Political Science Fundamentals (5 credits)
GV6126 Politics and Policies of the European Union (5 credits)

See also General Regulations for the Degree of Master by Research.

Programme Learning Outcomes for the MRes (Government and Public Policy) (NFQ Level 9, Major award)
On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of different modes of explanation and theoretical perspective in political science;
• Identify key forms of quantitative and qualitative methods used in political analysis;
• Evaluate the main developments and debates in EU politics and governance;
• Develop clear, focused and effective written and oral expression and communication;
• Demonstrate an ability to undertake sustained independent research;
• Critically discern and harness appropriate evidence in the pursuit of high quality political science analysis;
• Write theses to a professional standard, equivalent in presentational qualities to that of publishable papers;
• Use a full range of IT and online learning skills and display a mature computer literacy;
• Demonstrate advanced research skills appropriate to career progression.