Science and Technology Policy MSc

Key information

Duration:
1 year full time, 2 years part time
Start date:
September 2025
Apply by:
1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)

Advances in science and technology continue to transform the way we live. This makes designing effective policies for science and technology a priority for governments worldwide. The challenge is not just to advance science and technology, but to set directions and priorities for their development.

On our Science and Technology Policy MSc, you’ll learn about the language, logic and tools of policy formulation and analysis. You’ll be taught by world-leading researchers and scholars, and benefit from the global networks enjoyed by the University of Sussex Business School and SPRU – Science Policy Research Unit.

You’ll investigate science and technology policy challenges, and learn to evaluate and recommend policy solutions. This includes:

  • frameworks and tools to understand the complex dynamics of policy development
  • critiquing and contributing to science, technology and innovation policy and industrial strategy
  • analysing science, technology and innovation policy using an array of methodologies, from a number of perspectives.

We also offer this MSc with an optional professional placement year.

Accreditation

You’ll join the EQUIS and AMBA-accredited University of Sussex Business School. Learn more about all of our course accreditations here. Find out more

    We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

    My Masters gave me the ABC of science policy – the edge to stand out in an increasingly competitive job market.”Rapela Zaman
    Director of International Affairs
    The Royal Society, UK

    Virtual Masters Open Day

    Join us online to find out the essentials of Masters study.

    Saturday 23 November, 10.30am - 2.30pm

    Book your place

    Entry requirements

    Degree requirements

    You should have a lower second-class (2.2) undergraduate honours degree or above.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please select your country from the list.

    Argentina

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado/Titulo with a minimum final mark of at least 6.0-7.0 depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Australia

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Azerbaijan

    Degree requirements

    Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4 or 81%

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Bahrain

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 (Grade C+).

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Bangladesh

    Degree requirements

    A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.2/4.0

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Brazil

    Degree requirements

    Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a minimum final mark of at least 7.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Brunei

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second class lower division or CGPA 2.7/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Canada

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 (grade B).

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Chile

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 4.5-5.0/7 depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    China

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 70% - 80% depending on your university. Sussex uses the Shanghai Best Chinese Universities Ranking to inform offer levels.  

    As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Colombia

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad’ and a minimum CGPA of 3.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Cyprus

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Denmark

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 7 (Fair Performance).

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Ecuador

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 15/20.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Egypt

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree from a university with a minimum overall grade of at least 70%.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    France

    Degree requirements

    Licence with mention assez bien or Maîtrise with a minimum final mark of at least 12.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Germany

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a minimum final mark of 2.7 or better.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Ghana

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree from a public university with a minimum second-class lower division.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Greece

    Degree requirements

    Ptychion from an AEI with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Hong Kong

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    India

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 50-65% depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Indonesia

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0. 

    Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Iran

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a minimum final mark of at least 14.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Italy

    Degree requirements

    Diploma di Laurea with a minimum overall mark of at least 101.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Japan

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Jordan

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or 75%.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Kazakhstan

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 3.75 or better (on a scale of 1-5)/CGPA 2,67.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Kenya

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Kuwait

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or B.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Lebanon

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 or 13/20.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Malawi

    Degree requirements

    Masters degree, depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Malaysia

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.7/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Mexico

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Nepal

    Degree requirements

    A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Nigeria

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CGPA of at least 2.8-2.99/4.0, 3.0-3.49/5.0, or 4.0-4.6/7.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Norway

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of C.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Oman

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Pakistan

    Degree requirements

    Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. 

    Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. 

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Palestine

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum of at least 70% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Paraguay

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Peru

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 12/20 from a public university or 14/20 from a private university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Philippines

    Degree requirements

    Masters degree with a minimum of 1.75/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.5/4.0

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Qatar

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall CPGA of at least 2.8 (on a scale of 4).

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Russia

    Degree requirements

    Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Saudi Arabia

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.8/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Singapore

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CAP 3.5.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    South Africa

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (honours) degree with a minimum second-class division 2.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    South Korea

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.5 or 2.8/4.3 or B.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Spain

    Degree requirements

    Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 2/4 or 6/10.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Sri Lanka

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors Special degree with a minimum lower second honours.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Switzerland

    Degree requirements

    Licence or Diplôme with a minimum 4.5/6 or 7/10.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Taiwan

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-75% depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Thailand

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5 -2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Turkey

    Degree requirements

    Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.6 - 2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    United Arab Emirates

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or equivalent.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    USA

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Vietnam

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 7.0/10.

    As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Zambia

    Degree requirements

    Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Zimbabwe

    Degree requirements

    Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    Please note

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    My country is not listed

    If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

    Subject-specific requirements

    Your qualification can be in any subject but undergraduate degrees in the social sciences, natural science, humanities or engineering are particularly suitable. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

    English language requirements

    IELTS (Academic)

    Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).

    IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS

    We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

    We do not accept IELTS Online.

     

    Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

    Alternative English language qualifications

    Proficiency tests

    Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

    169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

    We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

    You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

    Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

    169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

    We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

    You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

    LanguageCert Academic SELT

    Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).

    LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

    We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

    We do not accept the online version.  We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

    LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

    International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.

    LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

    We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

    Pearson (PTE Academic)

    Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).

    PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

    We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

    TOEFL (iBT)

    Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing). 

    TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

    We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

    The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

    English language qualifications

    AS/A-level (GCE)

    Grade C or above in English Language.

    Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

    GCE O-level

    Grade C or above in English.

    Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

    Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

    GCSE or IGCSE

    Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

    Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

    Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

    If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

    If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.

    Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

     Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

    Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

    The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

    Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%

    Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% 

    International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

    English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

    Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

    Grades A - C in English language

    Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

    If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

    If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

    The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

    West African Senior School Certificate

    Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

    Country exceptions

    Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries

    If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

    You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

    Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

    List of exempt countries: 

    • Antigua and Barbuda
    • Australia
    • Bahamas
    • Barbados
    • Belize
    • Canada**
    • Dominica
    • Grenada
    • Guyana
    • Ireland
    • Jamaica
    • New Zealand
    • St Kitts and Nevis
    • St Lucia
    • St Vincent and the Grenadines
    • The British Overseas Territories
    • Trinidad and Tobago
    • United Kingdom
    • USA

    ** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

    English language support

    If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

    Visas and immigration

    Find out how to apply for a student visa

    Admissions information for applicants

    How to apply

    You will be able to apply from November 2024. 

     

    Personal statement

    Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. 

    Find out how to write a personal statement

    If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

    For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.

    Application deadlines

    1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)

    We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course

    Modules

    Full-time and part-time study

    Choose to study this course full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. Modules for the full-time course are listed below. For details about the part-time course, contact us.

    Core modules

    Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.

    Autumn teaching
    Spring teaching
    Summer teaching

    Options

    Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.

    While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.

    Spring teaching
    Summer teaching

    We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

    We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.

    Check back in January 2025 for the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

    American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid

    If you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t undertake your placement/internship in the USA if the number of credits for the placement/internship exceeds 25% of the total credits for your course. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid 

    Advances in science & technology bring ethical, societal and economic challenges

    Our experts

    Fees and scholarships

    How much does it cost?

    Fees

    Home students:
    £14,975 per year for full-time students
    Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
    £14,975 per year for full-time students
    International students:
    £26,250 per year for full-time students

    Receive a £2,000 award towards your international tuition fee.

    If you study part time over two years, you’ll be charged 50% of the equivalent full-time fee in each year of study. Your second-year fee – if you continue your studies without a break – will be subject to a 3% increase (subject to rounding).

    If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits

    Living costs

    Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

    Find out about our terms and conditions

    How can I fund my course?

    Scholarships

    Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.

    Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.

    Working while you study

    Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work

    Careers

    Scientific advice and evidence to inform public policies is in high demand. From climate change to cyber-security, poverty to pandemics, food technologies to fracking – controversies continue to erupt at the boundaries between science, politics and society. Across many countries, methods for scientific advice are being actively debated. We see a growing willingness to acknowledge uncertainties and experiment with new governance processes.

    As an aspiring professional, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills on this course to analyse and guide policy, as well as to manage scientific change and technological innovationCareer paths span research, education, government, industry, consulting, and international organisations, addressing vital economic, social and environmental challenges. The Science and Technology Policy MSc will also open up opportunities in a wide range of businesses and NGOs all over the world. And it’s an ideal grounding for PhD-level study and a career in academia.

    I needed to understand science, technology and innovation policies, public policy, economics, finance – I couldn’t find another place where this diversity was available.”William Respondovesk
    Assistant to the President
    Finep
    Return to top of page

    Explore our campus

    Experience Sussex life in our virtual tour.

    Start your virtual tour

    Meet us

    Masters Information Sessions

    Visit campus and chat to staff and students.
    Book your place

    Contact us