This course allows public service managers to pursue a particular management issue in depth through independent and individual research. This is then translated into effective management practice, alongside the development of crucial research skills for underpinning evidence-based practice.
The Public Services Management MSc emphasises and supports joint development opportunities to facilitate inter-agency working. It also provides an arena to network with like-minded professionals in the public service field.
Please note the following information for applicants.
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Please note the following information for applicants
Fact file
Entry requirements: Please see the
Applying section
Starting: March
Course length: One year, part-time
Study location: City site
Fees and funding:
Access the fees and funding information.
Course content
This course begins with three, one day workshops, held over a period of weeks, in which you will develop the skills and understanding necessary to identify and undertake research into a topic or issue within the public services. You will present the final piece of work as a dissertation and a conference paper. You will be able to select a topic of your choice, although guidance will be given by the tutors. It is suggested that you choose a topic that is important to you and your organisation to ensure that the results are useful.
The research project involves writing a proposal and undertaking live research to obtain information to base your findings, conclusions and recommendations. The dissertation is designed to develop confidence in your ability to influence change and development in your role in public services.
Modules
Certificate
- The Public Services Manager
- Managing People and Performance
- Managing Performance and Quality of Public Service Delivery
Diploma
- Strategic Analysis and Financial Management
- Action for Partnerships
- Strategic Leadership and Organisational Change (option)
- Financial Management and Performance Measurement (option)
- Contemporary Issues in Public Management
MSc
Methods for Management Research and Projects
This module is designed to give you an understanding of how to manage your individual research project. You will gain an understanding of quantitative and qualitative approaches to research. You will also learn the stages to a research process and how to design one. You will become familiar with the survey methods and data analysis that can be used in research projects. With this knowledge you will then learn how to create a proposal for your research project.
Public Management Research Project
The Management Research Project can be on a topic of your choice that has been discussed with your project supervisor. Throughout the project you will receive support from your project supervisor, from tutors and from colleagues in small project support and action learning groups. Your management paper will be presented at the annual University Public Services Management Conference.
How do you study?
Full support is provided by tutorial staff and electronic media is available for use. The courses employ a variety of teaching and learning approaches including workshops, small-group learning and set work for personal management development to enable you to enhance your performance.
Assessment
Students are assessed by completing a project proposal, conference report and research project.
At Nottingham Trent University, we provide first-class learning facilities for our students. The transformed Newton building is the home of Nottingham Business School and marks the next phase in the School’s development. In Newton, students have an abundance of teaching space, a range of lecture theatres of different sizes, and masses of space for social learning. With wireless connection throughout, students will be able to work on their laptops in any part of the building.
Graduates from this course have reported improved confidence as well as the understanding and insight to be able to contribute to strategic management at a corporate level. Many have gone on to hold senior positions in public service organisations.
This course does not currently offer placements, however the module content is directly applicable to the workplace and your research project should be related to your organisation.
Entry requirements
- Postgraduate Diploma in Public Services Management or equivalent
- Current / recent experience of employment in a managerial role
- CIPFA-qualified applicants can enter subject to the completion of one Diploma module.
- English language requirements for International and EU students
Please see the how to apply section for further entry requirements.
Entry requirements
You will need all of the following:
- a PG Diploma in Public Services Management or equivalent
- a current / recent experience of employment in a managerial role.
CIPFA-qualified applicants can enter subject to the completion of one Diploma module.
English language requirements
English language entry requirements for courses at Nottingham Business School and a full list of all English language qualifications accepted by the University are available on our website.
How to apply
Applications should be made using the apply online button at the top of the page.
