Politics and Social Policy with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

This wide-ranging and work-focused course provides an interdisciplinary study of Politics and Social Policy. Students will engage in debates around what we mean by a socially fair and just society, and the policies a government should pursue to achieve one. The degree will also help to explain important global phenomenon including recent events like the war on terror and the impact of the international economic crisisThe degree will allow students to develop an understanding of contemporary social problems, such as poverty, inequalities in health, and underachievement in schools and the policies in place to address these issues. Alongside this students will investigate the institutions, processes and procedures through which interests are expressed, the theories we use in understanding political activity, and the factors motivating and legitimising it.Teaching and learning is designed to support digital literacy. Students will acquire the skills necessary to gather evidence and apply theories to a range of social and political issues. Students are encouraged to share knowledge and be enterprising with their ideas. Global comparative perspectives are incorporated in the degree providing students with the opportunity to learn about society and politics in other countries.The foundation year of this course is designed to offer applicants who do not have the required qualifications, a programme which will equip them with a robust toolkit of academic, digital and personal skills required for successful study in higher education. It also provides an understanding of, and insight into, a range of disciplines that underpin their chosen programme of study. In the foundation year students will develop their ability to gain the most out of structured in-class study, and also to manage and evaluate their own independent learning. This wide range of transferable skills is of immense value in both undergraduate study and graduate employment. Upon successful completion of the foundation year, students will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of their subject area to degree level.