Governance, Development and Public Policy | University of Sussex

Course summary

1st in the world for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

This degree provides you with a theoretical and practical understanding of debates on political change and how public authority is created and exercised.

Based at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), you’ll build your critical and analytical skills, and improve your ability to develop and implement policies across state and non-state organisations.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Chat to student ambassadors

Discover what it's like to study Governance, Development and Public Policy at University of Sussex: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

Entry requirements

Select a course option at the top of this page to view entry requirement information.

Fees and funding

Choose a specific option to see funding information.

Course options

Sponsorship information

Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.