Social Policy - BA (Hons)

This course takes you right to the heart of some of the most hotly debated social issues of our time. It will open up a range of rewarding careers in public, private and third-sector work.

Our Social Policy degree is a fascinating, forward-looking course which addresses some of the big questions being discussed by the media, the public and the government.

Together, we’ll consider the reasons behind, and responses to, a wide range of social issues – such as social exclusion, health and social care, poverty, family policies, crime and community safety, citizenship, antisocial behaviour, racism and homelessness. We’ll learn how social policy is formulated and implemented, and get to grips with the theory behind social policy-making in an exciting and challenging environment.

We think it’s important for you to get out into the real world too, so you’ll have the chance to take part in an internship (work experience placement) where you’ll put your practical skills to the test. If you’re keen to see how other countries tackle social issues, there’s an opportunity to study abroad for one semester in Year 2.

Throughout the course, there’s a strong emphasis on student participation and consultation, and you’ll learn to approach policy issues in a rational, analytical way. You’ll go on visits, and we’ll bring in experts who’ll inform – and perhaps challenge – you with their experiences. They’ll also engage you in debates about ethical and academic issues.

When you graduate, you’ll be confident, well-informed – able to identify and research a range of social problems, look at the policies that respond to them, evaluate those policies, and help to create and implement new policies if needed.