Subject Benchmark Statement: Public Policy and Public Administration
Publication date: 07 Apr 2025
Public Policy and Public Administration
Subject Benchmark Statement
Subject Benchmark Statements describe the nature of study and the academic standards expected of graduates in specific subject areas. They show what graduates might reasonably be expected to know, do and understand at the end of their studies.
Below you will find the full Subject Benchmark Statement for Public Policy and Public Administration. Alongside it, we have also published a summary designed to provide a short and accessible overview of the main Statement for students, employers and academics.
Subject Benchmark Statement: Public Policy and Public Administration - the basics
Publication date: 07 Apr 2025
About this subject
Public Policy and Public Administration courses investigate the systems, processes, governance and management of public decision-making across all dimensions of society and tiers of government in both democratic and non-democratic countries. Students in Public Policy and Public Administration develop advanced levels of understanding of theories and concepts relating to governance, Public Policy, Public Administration, and public management as well as knowledge and skills in the formulation and implementation of public policies and the delivery of public services. This also includes the evaluation of impacts that governmental decisions, strategies, instruments and regulations have on citizens, and the drawing of lessons for practice and future public action.
Dr Karin Bottom - Chair of the Advisory Group
Associate Professor of Public Sector Learning, University of Birmingham
The first Subject Benchmark Statement for Public Policy and Public Administration marks a crucial juncture in each subject area. Defining distinctive elements of each, it also highlights their synergies and interdisciplinarity. Importantly, it draws attention to the vocational and applied nature of these degrees and how they should equip learners to successfully navigate the complex, nuanced and challenging nature of public service and public service allied environments. Including the cross-cutting themes of ‘equity, diversity and inclusion’, ‘accessibility’, ‘employability, entrepreneurship and enterprise’ and ‘generative artificial intelligence’, this Subject Benchmark Statement provides additional and helpful reference points for education in Public Policy and Public Administration.This benchmark has been developed by a team with relevant academic, quality assurance, student learning and practice experience, and offers a valuable framework for a variety of audiences. We hope it will support the development, delivery, evaluation, and enhancement of degrees in Public Policy and Public Administration.
View more Subject Benchmark Statements
Visit our Subject Benchmark page to find all of our Subject Benchmark Statements, covering a wide range of subjects and discipline areas.