Postgraduate Module Descriptor


POLM014M: MPA Applied Studies

This module descriptor refers to the 2023/4 academic year.

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

  1. Introductory induction session for whole class
  2. Fortnightly seminars & lectures with the module co-ordinator in term 1 covering topics such as evaluation, research methods in public administration, evidence-based policy, lesson drawing and policy transfer.
  3. Fortnightly supervision meetings for employer report with module coordinator in term 2;  
  4. Organised visits to local public and non-profit institutions;  
  5. Talks by guest speakers on topics relating to public administration;
  6. Work placements/ policy analysis activity on public or non-profit organisations
  7. Review class for the whole group at the end of the module: discussion and appraisal

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
605400

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

CategoryHours of study timeDescription
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities1010 hours whole class seminars/ lectures (5 x 2 hours term 1)
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities1010 hours group/ individual supervisory meetings (5 x 2 hours term 2)
Scheduled Learning and Teaching activities1010 hours guest lectures (5 x 2 hours over terms 1 & 2)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities123 x half day institutional visits
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities18Work placement/ policy analysis activity
Guided Independent Study60Preparation for seminars including reading & note taking
Guided Independent study40Writing reflective logs
Guided Independent study10Preparation for formative presentations
Guided Independent Study15Preparation for supervision
Guided Independent Study380Production of report, including reading, research, drafting & editing
Guided Independent Study20Preparation for/ follow-up from institutional visits/ placements
Guided Independent Study15Preparation for summative presentation including audio-visual materials

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).

Indicative web based resources e.g. ELE: 
The module will be supported by ELE materials, including the reflective learning log

Other Learning Resources

Websites and literature produced by the various institutions visited