The MPhil in Digital Policy course offers a blend of theory and practice modules. Modules will cover economics, statistics, using digital and AI technologies in the public sector, governance for responsible AI usuage, government and politics in the digital era, and policy analysis. Students will also be involved in policy debates and required to complete professional skills training. Students will leave the course with:
A firm foundation in understanding the challenges and possibilities posed by digital transformation;
Experience of developing their powers of critical thinking;
The skills and tools to form judgements based on wide ranges of information with varying degrees of uncertainty, and how to act on them.
An understanding as to how others operate and how to work with them to achieve the desired outcome.
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:
Analyse and deploy different kinds of data and information in an informed and rigorous fashion to develop new insights.
Demonstrate a critical awareness of digital policy issues from a range of different disciplinary perspectives.
Critically analyse policy advice and communicate conclusions clearly.
Critically appraise information from diverse kinds of experts including technical experts.
Integrate different forms of thinking, including qualitative and quantitative modes of thought in the creation of original research.
Have a conceptual understanding of the implications of complexity, risk, and uncertainty in policymaking in a technically complex and rapidly changing area.
Skills and other attributes
After completing the course, students will have developed:
Communication skills including preparation of specialist policy briefings and reports.
The ability to obtain and synthesise relevant information and communicate these to different audiences.
The ability to autonomously judge sources of data and information.
Strategic thinking in decision-making for complex issues.
Critical reasoning and independence of mind.
Teamwork skills for use in professional environments.
The ability to evaluate the quality and importance of the arguments of a range of different policy experts and analysts.
Continuing
The new PhD in Public Policy will start in October 2027, with applications opening in September 2026. Progression from the MPhil to PhD is not automatic, and current Cambridge students will be required to submit a new application for the PhD course, as a 'continuer'. As with new applicants, current MPhil students will be required to meet the course entry requirements. Current MPhil students can expect to have their PhD application reviewed once their MPhil academic performance can be fully assessed.
Open Days
The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options.
Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars
Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.
Virtual Postgraduate Open Days
The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.
Events for international students
Join us for Q&A webinars, funding webinars or get in touch with our regional managers. Find out more about events for international students.
For more information about all upcoming events visit our events pages.