In the recent months, we have received a variety of questions from people all around the globe who are interested in studying our short course with the Blavatnik School of Government.
Below you’ll find answers to our most asked questions, from admissions to certificate.
Question 1: How many hours will I need to study? Are the courses scheduled ‘live’ or pre-recorded?
We expect students to take part in the course for 3-5 hours per week. However, do keep in mind that this might vary slightly per week, depending on the content.
During the programme, you will have the opportunity to attend two live sessions with your Facilitator and fellow students. These sessions are optional and, if you cannot attend, you will have full access to recordings after each one.
As this course is fully flexible, there are no fixed times that you will need to be logged into the course. All tasks are pre-set so you can study anytime during the seven days each module is live. The discussions with your peers and the Facilitator will happen via forums so you can log in when it best suits you and pick up on the discussion. This discussion process will flow throughout the eight weeks of the course.
Question 2: Who is the course Facilitator?
The course is authorised and is delivered by the School’s faculty. Although not part of the faculty, the Facilitators are experts in the field. Their experience, both professionally and academically, mean they will be an excellent support to you throughout the course.
In this role, they will:
- comment on weekly discussions on specific topics;
- provide feedback on all project tasks;
- give comments and feedback on all activities.
Questions 3: Will a certificate be issued upon the completion of the course? Will I need to sit exams to successfully complete the course?
Yes, a certificate will be issued upon completion of the course. This is not a formal qualification but is recognition of having studied high-level content, from the highest regarded academics, with one of the top universities in the world.
The certificate will be awarded digitally within the platform and will clearly show both the University of Oxford and the University’s school within which the programme is offered, Blavatnik School of Government.
There are tasks and in-course interaction which are required to be completed to gain the certificate, but these are not formal examinations. Therefore, it is crucial to interact and perform assigned tasks to complete the course.
Question 4: What are the entry requirements?
There are no entry requirements for the course, but a background or exposure to policy making is extremely helpful in progressing through the modules.
If you’re already working in policy, or have exposure to public policy in some form, a key benefit will be the independent project you will have the opportunity to undertake throughout the course. You can apply this directly to the workplace, creating an immediate impact in your organisation.
Question 5: What are my payment options?
You will pay for the course in full at registration. If you are uncertain about whether you can afford to join us for the next intake, don’t worry – there will be plenty of opportunities to join us later in the year. In fact, we run four intakes, starting in February, May, August and October. You can also speak to our Enrolment Advisors about available discounts.
We hope this has answered any questions you may have on what it might be like to study with us. If you would like to explore the Evidence in Public Policy eight-week short course further, visit the course page.