Meet Assistant Professor Renu Singh, programme director for our MSc Public Policy programme, launching in 2025.
Tell us about your role within the School of Government and International Affairs
I’m an Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Policy at SGIA, and the Program Director for the MSc in Public Policy. I am also a member of the Centre for Institutions and Political Behaviour and a Fellow for the Global Policy Institute within the School.
Tell us about your research interests / areas of expertise
I am broadly drawn to questions around the intersection of science and policy, given my background in microbiology, political science, and public policy. My research interests include the relationship between political institutions, public opinion, and policy change in the context of public health and the environment. My research is also motivated by broader interests in science policy, sustainability, EU harmonization, comparative social policy, and global health security and governance. Regions that I focus on tend to be based on my expertise and experience in the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific.
What makes the MSc Public Policy unique?
Our MSc in Public Policy at Durham is unique in that we not only teach our students about key concepts in public policy, but also combine this with comprehensive training in data analysis and the opportunity for them to work with a capstone partner on current policy issues. The capstone collaborations really give our students an edge in being able to apply what they have learned at Durham to real policy problems and develop additional skills in applied policy contexts.
What is the Capstone module?
Our Capstone module is designed to give our students the opportunity to gain some hands-on experience addressing real-world policy challenges. Students will work alongside one of various organizations we have formed partnerships with, ranging from think tanks to nonprofit institutions to government agencies, to tackle a specific policy problem using the skills and knowledge they have developed through our program.
What can students expect from the first few weeks on the MSc Public Policy programme?
Students can expect to hit the ground running with both core and elective modules covering important topics in public policy, public administration, and data analysis from day one. Those first few weeks are a great time to get to know your cohort, your professors, and what about public policy you are most excited to explore – all while taking in the beautiful city of Durham.
What advice would you give someone thinking of studying the MSc Public Policy?
The one piece of advice that I would love to give anyone thinking about studying with our program is that this MSc in public policy is very much a choose your own adventure type situation. It really will let each student make the most of their individual strengths based on whatever academic and personal background they come from. So be confident in choosing courses and extracurriculars that are true to you and make the most of it.
