Social Policy BA/BSc

Social Policy is the study of how governments, organisations and communities address issues such as health, education, housing, poverty and inequality. It explores the systems designed to improve wellbeing and how policies impact people’s lives. A Social Policy degree is ideal for students who are socially aware, reflective and interested in shaping positive change in society.

Course Structure

Most Social Policy degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement year or study abroad. Many universities also offer joint degrees, such as Social Policy and Criminology, Social Policy and Politics, or Social Policy and Sociology.

Teaching includes lectures, seminars, policy workshops, debates, case studies, placements and independent study. Assessment is through essays, policy briefs, group projects, exams, presentations and a final-year dissertation.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Social Policy

Introduction to Social Policy

The Welfare State: History and Development

Poverty and Social Exclusion

Social Inequality: Class, Race, Gender

Research Methods in Social Sciences

Key Concepts in Politics and Policy

Year 2 – Core Development

Social Policy in Practice (health, housing, education, welfare)

Global Social Policy and International Development

Policy Analysis and Evaluation

Social Justice and Human Rights

Comparative Welfare Systems

Optional modules such as youth policy, ageing societies or migration

Year 3 – Advanced Study and Research

Social Policy and Social Change

Climate Change, Sustainability and Policy

Public Policy and Governance

Contemporary Issues in Social Policy (e.g. inequality, technology, globalisation)

Dissertation or Independent Research Project

Optional modules may include crime and justice, disability policy, or gender and policy.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but helpful subjects include:

• A levels: Sociology, Politics, Psychology, Law, History or Economics.

  
  

• BTECs: Health and Social Care, Applied Social Sciences or Public Services are often accepted.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Sociology, Politics or Global Politics are excellent choices.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for students who are reflective, engaged and interested in social issues. A strong application should include:

• Good grades in essay-based subjects.

  
  

• A personal statement showing interest in social justice, inequality or policy-making.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as volunteering with charities, youth services, local councils or community projects.

  
  

• Awareness of current debates, such as healthcare funding, housing policy or welfare reform.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Social Policy degree provides both academic and practical skills, including:

• Critical analysis – evaluating the impact of policies on communities.

  
  

• Research skills – using qualitative and quantitative methods.

  
  

• Communication – writing policy briefs, reports and persuasive essays.

  
  

• Problem-solving – applying theory to contemporary challenges.

  
  

• Policy evaluation – assessing the effectiveness of government strategies.

  
  

• Cultural awareness – understanding inequality and diverse perspectives.

  
  

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Social Policy Students

Here are four accessible and inspiring books:

“Social Policy: A Very Short Introduction” by John Baldock, Nick Manning and others – A concise guide to the field.

“Inequality and the 1%” by Danny Dorling – An exploration of inequality and its impact on society.

“The Welfare State: A Very Short Introduction” by David Garland – A clear overview of welfare systems and their challenges.

“Poor Economics” by Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo – A global perspective on poverty and development policies.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Social Policy graduates enter varied careers. Starting salaries are typically £22,000–£28,000 in roles such as policy research, local government, charities, NGOs, and social services. With experience, careers in policy-making, consultancy, management or social research can earn £35,000–£50,000. Senior roles in government, international organisations or academia may reach £60,000+.