Our Sociology with Social Policy programme offers students the opportunity to combine two closely related and complimentary disciplines.

Sociology, the major component of this programme, involves the study of the ways in which societies are organised and how they function. How is the particular society we live in organised? Does it function effectively? Is it harmonious? Is it equal? Is it fair? What about other societies? Our particular approach to Sociology involves the ‘critical’ study of society, which means asking serious questions about power, social inequality, and social injustice.

Social Policy, the minor component of this programme, involves study of the ways in which different societies understand and meet the needs of their members to ensure their well-being. How do societies organise the care of older people, or tackle underemployment among particular groups for instance? Again, our particular approach to Social Policy is critical and involves asking important questions about who decides which needs are met, what shape social support might take, and the effectiveness of social policies.

Studying these subjects together means tackling some of the most interesting and important social issues of our times. The programme involves critical engagement with relevant theories, concepts, and ideas, as well as the development of a wide range of critical thinking, research, and communication skills. You will be taught and supervised by world leading experts in the subject areas and experience a range of research engaged teaching, learning and assessment methods, including opportunities for applied and practice based learning. You will also be provided with opportunities to tailor your learning to suit your own particular interests and aspirations as you progress.

If you are interested in understanding the way in which the society you are part of works, the inequalities and injustices that exist within it, as well as how we might go about addressing the most pertinent and challenging social issues of our times, then this is the programme for you.

Our graduates have gone onto successful careers in both the public and private sectors; social welfare and criminal justice agencies such as the police and probation services and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) eg working with organisations supporting homeless people, refugees and in social research.

We will enable you to develop a range of social scientific, analytic and communication skills and a variety of transferable skills valued by many employers in a range of industries (eg media organisations, local government and charitable organisations, and commercial and financial service sectors).

Studying with us also provides a sound basis from which you will be able to pursue postgraduate studies either with a vocational orientation (MA in Social Work, Legal Practice Course, for example) or to further your research skills at masters and doctoral levels.