Politics and Social Policy BA (Hons)

This degree combines social policy and politics, allowing you to examine the complexity of society and learn about the social, cultural and political processes that shape our day-to-day lives. As a Politics and Social Policy student you will gain expertise in analysis, research, critical thinking and more as you develop an understanding of key topics.

In addition to areas such as formations of modernity, comparative politics and key debates in social policy, you’ll study the organisation and structure of society and consider the changing nature of human action, as well as the political theories that underpin our political systems and the social forces that shape political life. Using examples from around the world, you’ll gain a firm grounding in the institutions and practices of modern political systems while exploring social values and the impact of social divisions.

We offer a wide range of optional modules, enabling you to develop your interests in specialist areas such as the sociology of gender, security studies, disability and development or global terrorism and violence. Throughout the course, you’ll gain a diverse set of skills that will be valuable to you as a citizen, as well as for your future career plans.

Assessment

Modules will use a variety of assessment methods. As well as traditional exams, you could also be asked to complete projects based on essays and case studies, policy briefs, group presentations, work logs, research briefs, project proposals or development agency reviews. In your final year you’ll also submit a 12,000 word dissertation.

Career opportunities

Graduate destinations

Our graduates secure employment with some of the biggest UK companies in human resources, communications management, broadcasting and advertising. They are also ideally equipped to work in the public and third sector including in the civil service, teaching, youth work, fostering/children’s services, probation services, social work, prison service, housing and homelessness prevention.

Postgraduate opportunities

Graduates from this programme are well prepared for postgraduate study across a range of disciplines. Our recent graduates have gone on to study sociology, social policy, social research, teacher training, journalism, occupational therapy, human resources, marketing, town planning, social work, criminal justice studies.