BA Education and Social Policy

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education & Social Policy at the University of Strathclyde combines the study of social policy with educational theory, ideal for students who want to understand how social, economic, and political factors shape learning and society. It suits those interested in education, public policy, and social change, preparing them for careers in teaching, policy-making, or social research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students gain foundational knowledge in social policy, including the study of welfare, society, and government structures, alongside Education modules on childhood development and social and cultural influences on learning. Early placement experiences in schools provide practical insight into how policy and education intersect in real-world contexts.

Year 2

Year two develops a deeper understanding of social policy through modules such as Social Inequality, Policy Analysis, and Comparative Welfare Systems, while Education modules focus on learning across the lifespan and inclusion in education. Optional modules allow students to explore specialised areas in social policy or educational practice.

Year 3

In the third year, students engage with advanced topics in social policy, such as Education Policy, Poverty and Social Justice, or Governance and Public Services. Education studies focus on teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and research-led practice, with opportunities for placements or projects that apply policy understanding to educational contexts.

Year 4

The final year allows students to complete a dissertation or major project integrating social policy and educational research, demonstrating independent analysis and critical thinking. Advanced modules may include Comparative Education, Policy Implementation in Schools, or Social Policy Research Methods, preparing graduates for professional or postgraduate pathways.

Focus Areas:

Social policy analysis, welfare and governance, education theory, learning across the lifespan, curriculum and teaching methods, inclusion and diversity, research and analytical skills.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will be able to critically analyse social and educational policies, understand the impact of social structures on learning, conduct independent research, design inclusive learning strategies, and communicate effectively in professional and academic contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The degree prepares students for postgraduate teacher training (PGDE) and provides a foundation for careers in teaching, public policy, social research, or roles within government and community organisations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

Graduates benefit from Strathclyde’s strong reputation in social policy and education, gaining skills highly valued by employers in education, policy-making, research, and social service sectors, with excellent prospects for career progression and further study.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA (Hons) Education & Social Policy programme combines the study of education with social policy analysis, equipping students with practical understanding of educational systems, social issues, and community engagement. Students gain hands-on experience in schools and community settings while developing research, analytical, and policy-focused skills.

Experiential learning includes:

School / community placements with children or youth (age 0–14) — from Year 1, students work in educational settings, gaining first-hand experience of teaching, learning, and social factors affecting education.
Education Resources Centre and social policy materials — students have access to dedicated facilities supporting coursework, research, and practical projects in both education and social policy.
Workshops, seminars, and small-group tutorials — interactive sessions develop skills in teaching, policy analysis, and community engagement.
Research projects and independent study — students complete projects or dissertations combining education and social policy topics, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.
Community and policy-focused placements — opportunities to engage with local authorities, NGOs, and social programs, linking academic learning with practical social policy application.
Guest lectures and professional connections — students interact with social policy experts, education practitioners, and community leaders, enhancing understanding of sector practices.

What the programme covers

Social Policy component

Year 1: Introduction to social policy, exploring welfare, education, health, and community contexts.
Year 2: Broader examination of social inequality, public services, and policy analysis methods.
Year 3: Optional modules on areas such as poverty, education policy, social justice, and comparative social policy.
Year 4 (Honours): Independent research or dissertation on a chosen topic in social policy, integrating theoretical study with practical investigation.

Education component

Year 1: Core education themes including how social, cultural, and economic factors influence learning, and initial placement with children aged 0–14.
Year 2: Studies on learning across life stages, informal education, and optional education modules.
Year 3: Community-based placements, adult education studies, and training in educational research methods.
Year 4: Advanced modules in inclusion, equity, policy, and educational research, alongside a dissertation or major project.
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and placements, developing skills in research, analysis, communication, and professional practice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Education and Social Policy gain knowledge of educational theory alongside social policy, preparing them for careers in teaching, educational leadership, policy analysis, or roles within government and community organisations. Many also continue to postgraduate study to specialise in education, social policy, or public administration:

University services that support employment: Strathclyde’s Careers Service provides guidance on placements, internships, and school-based teaching experience through the Faculty’s Student Placement System. Students also benefit from employability workshops, mentoring, and study-abroad opportunities to enhance practical skills.
Employment stats & salary figures: Graduate Outcomes data show strong employability, with early-career median salaries typically ranging from £22,500–£27,000, depending on sector and role.
University–industry connections: Partnerships with local schools, government bodies, and community organisations provide hands-on experience and professional networking. Collaborations with social policy think tanks and educational charities enhance career readiness.
Long-term accreditation value: Graduates aiming to teach can progress to the PGDE for qualified teacher status, while their understanding of social policy supports long-term careers in education policy, administration, and public service.
Graduation outcomes (typical roles): Common roles include Secondary or Primary Teacher (after PGDE/induction), Education Policy Analyst, Community Education Officer, Social Policy Researcher, and Educational Programme Coordinator.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA (Hons) Education and Social Policy, students may pursue the PGDE for professional teaching qualification, taught Masters in Education, Social Policy, or Public Administration, or research degrees (MRes/PhD) in Education, Social Policy, or Public Policy — all designed to enhance professional expertise and academic development.