This programme provides intensive analytical training in the systematic comparison of social and public policies from an international perspective. It helps develop substantive knowledge in a wide range of policy fields around topical issues such as policy evaluation, policy learning and policy transfer. Amid the ongoing debate on Scotland's role within the UK, we offer the ideal environment in which to observe contemporary public policy developments. You'll focus on variation in national policy patterns within and beyond Europe, with a view to understanding how and why nations differ in their social and public policies and what they can learn from each other's experience in key contemporary policy concerns, including labour market, work-life balance, health, social care, inequality and welfare issues, education policy and child-oriented policy and practice. This programme aims to give you a thorough training in methods of comparative analysis; ESRC (Economic and Social Research Council)-recognised training in analysing datasets; knowledge of different forms and purposes of comparison; grounding in the politics and/or economics of policy-making; a detailed comparative knowledge of substantive areas of policy; knowledge of policy learning and transfers in a comparative context.