Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford

Suppose you’re considering building a career in public policy, government, international organisations, or non-profits. In that case, the Master of Public Policy (MPP) at Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government is one of the world’s most elite stepping stones. The programme’s mission is to develop policy leaders capable of engaging with pressing global challenges—from governance and public health to climate, inequality, and institutional reform.

What is the MPP at Blavatnik?

• Duration: 1 academic year, full-time.
• Approach: A blend of rigorous academic theory and real-world policy application. Courses include lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies, and group discussions. The programme emphasises not only how policies are developed on paper, but how they are formulated, negotiated, implemented, and evaluated in real settings.
• Interactive Learning: Expect high engagement through policy reports, practitioner input, leadership training, and cutting-edge policy dialogue. The applied component is strong.

Key features and curriculum highlights

• Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The MPP draws from economics, political science, law, ethics, management, public administration, and related fields.
• Policy Report Placement: A 6- to 8-week placement with a policy institution (government, NGO, international agency, think tank, etc.), to apply what you learn to actual policy problems.
• Leadership Development: Workshops in negotiation, communication, effective public speaking, ethics, and decision-making.
• Faculty & Practitioners: Students learn from leading scholars and frequent guest policy practitioners—people in government, NGOs, and international organisations—who bring practical insight.
• Diverse Cohort: Students come from 50+ countries, with professional and academic backgrounds ranging from public servants and economists to activists, journalists, and social entrepreneurs.

Financing & Scholarships

Finance is a major concern for many, and Oxford recognises this:

• Scholarships: Over 80% of MPP students receive full or partial scholarships, provided by the Blavatnik School, the University of Oxford, or external partners.
• Financial support can cover tuition, fees, and often a stipend to help with living costs. Specific amounts depend on individual scholarship awards.

ALSO APPLY FOR:
Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026

Who should apply?

The MPP is ideal for those who:

• Have at least two years of relevant work experience, ideally in fields like government, civil service, NGOs, international agencies, or related public policy work.
• Demonstrate strong academic ability (good grades, analytical thinking), leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
• Intellectually curious and committed to addressing public challenges in their home country or globally.
• Are fluent in English, since the programme is taught in English and includes rigorous reading, writing, and discussion.

Oxford MPP timeline (for 2026 Entry)

Why it matters

For many Nigerians with ambition to shape public life—whether in government, NGOs, policy think tanks, or even the private sector—the Oxford MPP offers:

• Credibility & Recognition: A degree from Oxford (Blavatnik) carries weight. It opens doors, whether for senior policy work, national or international roles.
• Global Network: Connects you with a cohort of peers from diverse backgrounds, policy experts, and alumni who occupy influential positions worldwide. These networks often continue to pay off after the programme.
• Practical Experience: The policy placement and case work give you hands-on experience—something many policymakers or advisors lack early in their careers.
• Leadership Skills: More than theory, the programme cultivates leadership, judgment, and capacity to operate in complex, cross-sectoral environments.

2026 David Sainsbury Scholarship at the University of East Anglia

Tips before applying

• Plan Early: Identify which scholarship or funding options you might qualify for. Some are competitive.
• Draft a compelling purpose statement: Be clear about why you want this MPP, what policy problem you hope to address, and how the programme fits into your long-term goals.
• Gather strong references: Especially from supervisors or professional mentors who can speak to your leadership, analytic ability, and impact in public service.
• Research Placement & Coaching Resources: The experience of where you might do your policy report matters; think through where you’d like to go for that placement.
• Prepare documents: Academic transcripts, proof of work experience, language proficiency (if required), and proposals (if applicable) ahead of deadlines.

The Blavatnik MPP is not just a degree; it’s a launchpad. For those who have a vision for public service, a desire for impact, and a willingness to engage deeply with policy, governance, and leadership, it offers some of the best preparation available. If you’re planning to apply, sharpening your policy focus, building your leadership story, and showing tangible commitments to service will go a long way.

APPLY FOR MPP AT BLAVATNIK SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT