BSc Social Policy (L400)
2025 entry
Course summary
Social Policy provides an exciting opportunity to critically analyse contemporary social issues related to human wellbeing, inequality, disadvantage and crime. You will explore real-world challenges in a global context, drawing on social, political, public policy and economic theories.
Social Policy at Bristol addresses some of the key questions of our time. What should we do about inequality? Why does poverty persist? Who should pay for care for the elderly? What can be done about the climate crisis? How can citizens engage with policy?
Our BSc Social Policy course is one of the longest-running social policy degrees in the country and it consistently scores high in university subject rankings.
Graduates of the course have gone on to achieve success in a wide range of careers in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Alternatively, the course provides a strong foundation for furthering your studies in public policy.
This course is available as an intercalated degree for current medicine, dentistry or veterinary students from the University of Bristol or other universities. Find out more about our intercalated degrees and eligibility criteria.
Course structure
The first year introduces key concepts and ideologies and familiarises you with theoretical, comparative and historical analyses. It also develops your research and critical thinking skills as a social scientist.
Your second and third years allow you to explore your interests in greater depth through a wide range of optional units which focus on contemporary, real-world social and political issues. You also have the option to choose a work placement unit in your second year, providing the opportunity to gain employment-related skills and experience in an organisation connected to your studies.
The final-year dissertation is an opportunity to choose a topic for in-depth investigation and independent work.
Entry requirements
We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.
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Selection process
- Regulations and codes of conduct we abide by to create a positive environment for learning and achievement are found in the University admissions policies and procedures.
- If applying with extenuating circumstances please see our policy.
- Full information about our selection processes for Social Policy can be found in the Admissions Statement:
Admissions statement