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72 Affordable Master's degrees in Public Policy
Exploring affordable Public Policy programmes can be a rewarding endeavour for international students. The lower-end tuition fee, represented by €16, offers an accessible entry point for those looking to delve into this field without breaking the bank. This fee reflects the cost at the fifth percentile, meaning it is one of the more budget-friendly options available.
For students aiming for a balance between cost and quality, the €1,200 serves as a useful benchmark. This median tuition fee encapsulates the typical expense one might expect when enrolling in an affordable Public Policy programme. It strikes a balance, offering a realistic expectation of what many students pay.
On the higher end of the spectrum, the €2,349 represents the tuition fee at the ninety-fifth percentile. While this figure is higher, it still falls within the realm of affordability for many students, especially when considering the value and opportunities that a degree in Public Policy can offer.
Additionally, the landscape of Public Policy education is evolving, with 4% of programmes now available online. This shift not only broadens access but also caters to the diverse needs and preferences of students, allowing them to pursue their academic goals in a flexible and convenient manner.
Social Work - Practice, Policy and Research MasterTrack
In this 6-course Social Work - Practice, Policy and Research MasterTrack programme offered by Coursera in partnership with University of Michigan. No application necessary for the MasterTrack Certificate - enroll today.

Legislative Drafting
Legislative drafting is central to constitutional democracy, governance, and the rule of law. Statutes and subordinate legislation give concrete form to public policy, define rights and obligations, establish institutions, and regulate economic and social life. Discover more with this Legislative Drafting degree from O.P. Jindal Global University.
International Economics and Public Policy
The International Economics and Public Policy programme of Trier University is an interdisciplinary programme jointly run by the Political Science and Economics Departments.
Public Governance - Good Governance and Civil Society
The purpose of the Public Governance - Good Governance and Civil Society programme from Adam Mickiewicz University Poznan is to provide students with the knowledge and skills they will need to find employment in state administration bodies and institutions involved in local social activities.
Double Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality
As a student of the Double Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality at the University of Cologne, you benefit from the expertise of two top-ranking universities.
Public Policy (Dual Degree with the University of St. Gallen)
At Public Policy (Dual Degree with the University of St. Gallen) from Sciences Po is based on a multidisciplinary approach to public affairs.
Politics, Philosophy and Public Affairs
The master degree in Politics, Philosophy and Public Affairs (PPPA) from The University of Milan, is an advanced interdisciplinary programme offering high-level competences in political science and philosophy.
Europe and Asia in Global Affairs (Dual Degree with Fudan University)
In order to prepare for their second year at Fudan, during their studies at Europe and Asia in Global Affairs (Dual Degree with Fudan University) from Sciences Po, students follow specific courses, such an Introduction to security issues in Europe and Asia or Chinese language course.
Comparative Politics and Political Theory
Comparative Politics and Political Theory from Jawaharlal Nehru University would encourage research scholars to interrogate mainstream disciplinary practices and contribute towards making the corpus of political thought and practice truly global.
Security and Strategic Studies
The MA in Security and Strategic Studies programme from University of Namibia is one of the most important agencies created by the Government of the Republic of Namibia at independence in 1990.
Economic and Policy Analysis
The Economic and Policy Analysis at National Taipei University seeks to provide systematic learning schedule and interdisciplinary training in the social, economic and ecological aspects of natural resources and environmental management.
Science Policy
The Centre for Studies in Science Policy at Jawaharlal Nehru University is unique to the Indian University system.
Public Affairs And Democracy
The Public Affairs And Democracy programme from Leuphana University of Lüneburg addresses these and other questions to provide students with the intellectual and methodological tools to understand, critique and improve democracy around the world.
Public Policy and Governance
The Public Policy and Governance programme from Amity University Noida will help you develop expertise in governance and policy-making.
Public Economics
Public Economics from Freie Universität Berlin incorporates the economic disciplines of public finance, economic policy, and macroeconomics, and imparts theoretical and empirical competencies to students that allow them to make analyses of economic policies from an academic perspective.
Economic Policy and Quantitative Methods (EPQM)
The Economic Policy and Quantitative Methods (EPQM) MSc course at the University of Potsdam is a four-semester English-language program that equips students with specialized knowledge in quantitative methods for evidence-based economic policy analysis.
Public Policy and Global Affairs (Dual Degree with Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, University of Toronto)
Public Policy and Global Affairs (Dual Degree with Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, University of Toronto) from Sciences Po provides students with an immersion in multiple policy fields, with an emphasis on the role of values, ethics, and cultural contexts.
Politics and Public Policy (Dual Degree with Luigi Bocconi University in Milan)
Politics and Public Policy (Dual Degree with Luigi Bocconi University in Milan) from Sciences Po aims to provide an advanced education in Political Science and the topics of public policy analysis.
Governance and Public Policy
The M.Phil. in Governance and Public Policy at The University of the West Indies is a research-oriented programme with supervision in the areas of social policy (including human resource development); governance and public policy; economic development policy and management; and integration theory and practice.
Global and Comparative Urban Planning and Governance (dual degree with UCLA)
Global and Comparative Urban Planning and Governance (dual degree with UCLA) from Sciences Po is a cutting-edge program that builds on the core strengths of both programs and offers the specialized training offered by each.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several countries offer a cheap master's degree in Public Policy, making them attractive destinations for international students. You can find affordable Public Policy master’s in Germany, where many universities provide programmes under €2,500 per year. Similarly, affordable Public Policy degrees in Norway are available, with some institutions offering tuition-free education. Spain is another excellent option, with numerous universities offering budget-friendly programmes. Additionally, affordable Public Policy master’s in Poland and affordable Public Policy degrees in Hungary provide excellent value for money. These countries not only offer low tuition fees but also have a rich academic environment conducive to learning.
The average cost of a cheap master's degree in Public Policy typically ranges from €500 to €2,500 per year. This affordability makes it accessible for many international students. However, it's important to consider additional expenses such as living costs, which can vary significantly depending on the country and city. For instance, living costs in Germany might be higher compared to Poland, even though tuition fees are similar. Therefore, while the tuition fee is a critical factor, students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses to get a comprehensive view of the total cost.
Yes, there are scholarships available for cheap Public Policy master degrees. Many universities and governments offer financial aid to international students. For example, the DAAD scholarships in Germany provide substantial support for master's students. Similarly, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees offer scholarships covering tuition and living expenses. Additionally, some universities in Norway and Spain provide merit-based scholarships. It's essential for students to research and apply for these opportunities early, as competition can be fierce. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, making an already affordable programme even more accessible.
Yes, you can get an affordable online master's degree in Public Policy. Many universities now offer flexible, distance-learning options that are budget-friendly. For instance, you can explore affordable online Public Policy master’s programs that fit your schedule and budget. These programmes often have lower tuition fees compared to on-campus options and eliminate the need for relocation, saving on living expenses. Online learning also allows you to balance your studies with work or other commitments, making it a practical choice for many students.
The admission requirements for a cheap master's in Public Policy generally include a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as political science, economics, or sociology. Most universities require a minimum GPA, typically around 2.7 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you will need to submit standardised test scores like the GRE, although some institutions may waive this requirement. English language proficiency is crucial, and you will likely need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores. Other common requirements include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or CV. It's important to check the specific requirements of each university, as they can vary.
The duration to complete an affordable master's in Public Policy typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, depending on the programme and whether you study full-time or part-time. Full-time programmes usually take about 1.5 to 2 years, while part-time options can extend up to 3 years. Online programmes offer more flexibility, allowing students to complete the degree at their own pace, often within 2 to 3 years. It's important to consider your personal and professional commitments when choosing the duration of your programme. Some universities also offer accelerated options for students who wish to complete their degree more quickly.