Learn to tackle the grand challenges our complex society faces from a political-administrative point of view.

How can governments take action to combat climate change and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals and how can we contribute to the acceptance and effectiveness of such governmental actions? How can governments ensure the protection of data security and privacy rights of citizens in times of rapid technological change? What does it take for governments to keep healthcare affordable and innovative health technologies available for all citizens? And moreover: how can governments at all levels – from local to national to international – collaborate effectively to address these and many other societal challenges? If you are fascinated by the role governments and public organisations play in tackling the grand challenges our society faces today, the Master’s in Public Administration at the University of Twente is the right choice for you. 

This one-year Master’s is taught mainly in English and teaches you how to address political-administrative, societal and technological challenges within the public sector that can usually not be solved with just a simple solution. You will gain an in-depth understanding of political-administrative decision-making processes in today’s technologically transforming world. This Master’s will help you understand the complex playing-field of public and private organisations with different interests. You will become skilled in analysing, developing, and implementing public policies and learn how to resolve multiple – and often highly conflicting – stakeholder interests.

Start master’s in public administration:

You can start your studies in September or February. If you need to follow a Pre-Master’s first, you can also start in September or February and continue with the Master’s directly afterwards.

Create your own unique profile:

This Master’s in Public Administration at the University of Twente is unique because more than gaining a strong, broad foundation within the field of public administration, you get the opportunity to develop your personal profile within a domain of your choice. You might for example focus on public safety, sustainability, healthcare, or public affairs. Or what about dealing with a variety of topics, specifically in the context of the Dutch government, or gaining a more philosophical understanding of good (deliberative) governance?

These domains are all represented within the profile courses you can choose from. Building expertise within a specific domain does not only enable you to pursue your own interests, it will surely give you an excellent starting position on the job market!

Career perspectives:

With a Master’s degree in Public Administration, you can look forward to excellent career prospects. Because of an ageing workforce in many countries and the rise of new (digital) challenges, the demand for (academically) skilled professionals within the public domain will continue to grow in the upcoming years. Graduates of this Master’s find interesting, challenging and well-paid jobs soon after graduation, as policymakers, policy advisers, and lobbyists, or researchers. You will be well-prepared for a career in the public sector, private sector or non-profit sector.