Critically examines the political, material and organisational context for public policy implementation and evaluation by considering roles and functions of its key players and the influences of previous policy outcomes. It also evaluates a range of approaches to policy resource generation, monitoring and evaluation and their outputs and outcomes.

Explores the nature of research, the identification of researchable agendas, choice of methodologies and development of research plans and protocols together with techniques of data collection and usage. It is a key support mechanism for students to undertake the Dissertation.

Develops and enhances research skills, connections between theory and practice, the capacity to conceptualise and theorise, together with independent and reflective learning. It serves as the key mechanism for students to develop specialist knowledge and skills in a research topic of their choice.