Postgraduate Module Descriptor

POLM009M: Regulation and Reform: Analysis and Policy (MPA ONLY)

This module descriptor refers to the 2017/8 academic year.

Module Aims

The aims of this module are to provide advanced postgraduate level introductions to and analyses of different types of regulatory reform, suitable for policymakers and public managers. Empirically, the focus will be on the recent wave of 'better regulation' reforms in developing and developed countries. A student completing this module will have firm grasp of the costs and benefits of regulation, and will be familiar with the various policymaking tools used to evaluate and redesign regulations.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Critically examine the theoretical foundations of different approaches to regulatory reform and the diffusion of the better regulation movement using political science and administrative law;
2. Identify the theoretical and empirical manifestations of better regulation, by using theory and comparative evidence across the OECD countries and beyond;
3. Identify examples of success and failures in better regulation experiments across nations;
4. Explain the political dynamics of adoption and implementation of better regulation packages;
5. Explain how the tools of better regulation work and appraise them empirically and normatively;
Discipline-Specific Skills6. Appraise and critically evaluate government reports, public policy, and OECD-EU-World Bank documents;
7. Synthesise and comment critically on a corpus of academic literature;
8. Link public administration concepts and theories to real world examples;
Personal and Key Skills9. Undertake independent/self-directed learning (including time management) to achieve consistent, proficient and sustained attainment;
10. Work as a participant or leader of a group and contribute effectively to the achievement of objectives; and
11. Reflect on the process of learning and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses.