Social Policy with a Foundation Year, BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

Swansea University's Social Policy program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of social policy theory, research, and practice. Through a four-year curriculum, students specialize in an area of interest, gain practical experience through placements, and complete a research dissertation. Graduates are prepared for careers in social work, public policy, research, and other fields related to social justice.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Social Policy program at Swansea University focuses on the study of human needs and how societies address them. The program's objectives are to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social policy theory, research, and practice. Students will learn about the key values and principles that underpin social policy, as well as the different ways in which social problems are defined, analyzed, and addressed. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a variety of fields related to social policy, including social work, public policy, and research. Graduates of the program will be able to critically analyze social policy issues, develop and implement effective social policy interventions, and advocate for social justice.

Outline:

The Social Policy program consists of a four-year curriculum. The first year of the program provides students with a foundation in the core concepts and theories of social policy. Students will take courses in social policy theory, research methods, and social statistics. In the second year, students will begin to specialize in a particular area of social policy. They will choose from a range of optional courses, such as social welfare policy, health policy, education policy, and housing policy. Students will also complete a research project on a topic of their choice. In the third year, students will continue to take courses in their chosen area of specialization. They will also complete a placement in a social policy organization. The placement will provide students with an opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of social policy. In the fourth year, students will complete their undergraduate dissertation. The dissertation is a major research project that allows students to demonstrate their understanding of social policy theory and research.

Assessment:

Students in the Social Policy program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Essays
• Exams
• Presentations
• Research projects
• Placements
The weighting of each assessment method varies depending on the course.

Teaching:

The Social Policy program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and policy work. The faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest lectures
• Field trips
The program also offers a number of opportunities for students to get involved in research. Students can work with faculty members on research projects, present their own research at conferences, and publish their work in academic journals.

Careers:

Graduates of the Social Policy program have a wide range of career opportunities. They can work in a variety of fields related to social policy, including:

• Social work
• Public policy
• Research
• Advocacy
• Non-profit management
Graduates of the program are also well-prepared for further study in social policy or other related fields.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

UK: £9,000 International: £18,200