With a length of two years and 120 credits (ECTS), the course includes a common core and several specialised electives in Public Policy. The common core is made up of courses in theories and analysis of public policy, economics, law, European studies and research methods.

In the second year, students undertake a short-term curricular internship and an elective curricular unit in research methods. They can conclude the course with an academic dissertation or, alternatively, with a project work applying the lessons learnt, which can be carried out within the framework of the Centre for Research and Studies in Sociology (CIES-Iscte). Their preparation is supported by complementary activities such as conference cycles, the Public Policy Forum and other IPPS-Iscte activities.

The teaching and lecturing staff includes Portuguese and foreign academics and experts in public policy, as well as former members of the government and public administration leaders.

Students who complete the first year are awarded the Diploma of Postgraduate Studies in Public Policy, with 60 credits (ECTS).