Politics and Sociology (BSc Econ)

At Cardiff, learning politics and sociology is much more than reading textbooks — it’s about putting ideas into action. From your very first semester, you’ll develop hands-on skills through research projects, collaborative workshops, field visits, and even real-world placements. The course is designed to help you think critically, communicate confidently, and apply what you learn to real political and social issues — all while supported by top-class facilities and digital tools.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience throughout your degree:

• Hands-on use of research tools and software: Learn how to collect, interpret, and analyse data using specialist software, and access all your course materials, assessments, and discussions through Cardiff’s virtual learning platform, Blackboard.

• Collaborative group projects: Work closely with classmates on group assignments that mirror real-world teamwork, analysing policies, building arguments, and presenting your findings together.

• Independent dissertation: In your final year, you’ll design and complete your own research project with one-to-one support from a supervisor — a chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about in depth.

• Placement opportunities: Get valuable work experience through dedicated placement support and an optional “Politics in Practice” work placement module in your third year.

• Study visits and real-world exposure: Take part in field trips to key institutions like the UK Parliament, Welsh Senedd, and other political organisations, gaining first-hand insight into how politics works behind the scenes.

• Access to leading research centres: Engage with cutting-edge research through centres such as the Wales Governance Centre or the Centre for Conflict, Security and Societies, where you can attend talks, join projects, and network with experts.

• Extensive library and digital resources: Use Cardiff’s well-stocked libraries, specialist databases, and online archives to support your research and coursework.

• Modern IT and computing support: Take advantage of 24/7 computer suites, install Microsoft 365 on your own devices, and use university software to enhance your studies.

All of this ensures that by the time you graduate, you’ll not only understand how societies and political systems function — you’ll also have practical skills, research experience, and industry connections to launch your career.

Graduating with a BSc Econ Politics and Sociology from Cardiff University opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths where you can make a real impact on society. You’ll be equipped to step into roles such as policy analyst, social researcher, public affairs officer, or community development manager, working with governments, NGOs, and organisations that shape public life. Your mix of political knowledge and sociological insight will make you highly valuable wherever social policy and decision-making meet.

Here’s how Cardiff helps you prepare for your future:

• Personalised career support – You’ll have access to expert careers advisers, workshops on CV writing and interviews, guest speaker events, and a dedicated placement manager to help you secure internships and real-world experience.

• Strong employment outcomes – Around 53% of graduates in related disciplines are in highly skilled roles within 15 months, with many others working in public services, research, and policy-focused positions.

• Valuable industry links – Cardiff’s close connections with the Welsh Government, UK civil service, and parliamentary bodies give you unique opportunities to engage with policy-making and gain professional exposure.

• Russell Group reputation – Your degree comes from a globally respected research university, adding long-term credibility and value to your qualification.

• Proven graduate success – Many School of Social Sciences graduates progress quickly into employment or postgraduate study, reflecting the strength of the programme.

Further Academic Progression: After your degree, you could specialise further with a master’s in areas like Public Policy, International Relations, Sociology, or Political Economy, or even continue to a PhD — opening doors to leadership roles in government, consultancy, research, or academia.