Five reasons to study public policy at Oxford

From climate to technology and global security, the world needs leaders who can navigate complexity and drive change. The MPP equips you to do just that – here’s how.

A global classroom shaped by diverse perspectives 

Each year, our MPP attracts students from across the world – professionals with diverse experiences, policy interests and goals. In 2024, we welcomed 150 students from over 50 countries, and since our first class in 2012, we’ve taught students from 128 countries and territories. 

This diversity shapes the entire MPP learning experience. The classroom becomes a space where insights are exchanged across borders, sectors and disciplines, helping you understand public policy through a truly global lens. 

“The MPP shaped the way I lead through the experience of learning alongside my classmates from over 50 countries. Their diverse perspectives taught me as much as the classes themselves. That global, collective learning continues to guide my work in public service.” – Joaquín Walker Martínez, Ministry of Education, Chile (MPP 2016) 

A curriculum that prepares you to lead 

The MPP is built for those who want to lead on the toughest challenges of our time – from climate and global security to technology and law. You’ll be taught by world-class faculty who are shaping policy in these areas every day, and you'll develop the analytical, strategic and ethical tools needed to make a real difference. 

The course is interdisciplinary, intensive and immersive – drawing on philosophy, law, economics and politics, while staying rooted in real-world application. 

At the heart of our approach is the case method – a dynamic, practical way of learning that puts you in the shoes of policymakers. You’ll work through real-life dilemmas, challenge perspectives, make decisions under pressure and sharpen the leadership skills you’ll need in the field. This is not passive learning – it’s about doing, testing and learning by experience. 

Collaboration that strengthens your leadership 

The MPP is intentionally built around peer learning. You’ll be surrounded by committed, high-achieving classmates from around the world, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. Many students say this peer group becomes their most valuable resource – both during the course and far beyond it. 

The atmosphere at the School is deliberately collaborative. Our students support, challenge and push each other to grow – not because they’re competing, but because they’re united by a shared mission to improve public policy around the world. 

“Here it’s not about competition. There are other amazing programmes out there that just focus on your own career after the course. But here, the focus is on [collectively] solving [policy] problems.” – Allan Torres, Head of Public Policy and Business, Colab, (MPP 2021)

Unparalleled access to Oxford and global leaders 

As a student at the University of Oxford, you’ll have access to outstanding academic resources and experiences – from over 100 libraries and world-renowned museums to historic institutions like the Oxford Union. You’ll be part of one of the world’s most respected universities, and a thriving postgraduate community that makes up half of Oxford’s student body. 

You’ll also belong to one of Oxford’s colleges – a small, multidisciplinary community offering accommodation, social events, formal dinners and pastoral support. Your college experience complements your time at the School, adding to the richness of your year in Oxford. 

The School’s convening power is unmatched. From the Dean’s Forum to high-level policy roundtables, you’ll engage directly with senior figures from government, international organisations, the private sector and civil society – not just to listen, but to challenge and contribute to the conversation. In the past year alone, our students have spoken with Amal Clooney, international human rights lawyer and visiting Professor; Rishi Sunak, former UK Prime Minister; Margrethe Vestager, former Executive Vice President of the European Commission; and Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic. These aren’t distant keynote speakers – they’re part of open, often informal conversations with the leaders shaping public policy today. 

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meeting with MPP students and Dean Ngaire Woods.

A lifelong, global network 

The Blavatnik School alumni community is active, global and growing. Our graduates are making an impact in government ministries, international organisations, advocacy campaigns, think tanks, start-ups and more – from ministers of youth to climate negotiators, city mayors and humanitarian leaders. 

What truly sets our alumni network apart is its connectivity. Alumni stay in close contact with each other and with the School – working together on policy problems, sharing ideas and supporting one another throughout their careers. Wherever your path takes you, the MPP community is one you’ll be part of for life. 

“I knew that my experience at the Blavatnik School of Government would give me the tools to become a better public servant. What I have realised since then is that the network of BSG alumni and faculty is an equally important asset. This is what sets the BSG apart.” - Saul Musker, MPP 2018, Director of Strategy in the South African President’s Office 

To find out more about the Master of Public Policy – including the range of financial support available – visit our course pages. Applications for the 2026-27 class open early September 2025 and close on 2 December 2025.