BA Political Science and Social Policy

At Birmingham, learning politics and social policy isn’t just about lectures and books — it’s about applying ideas to real situations. From your very first year, you’ll be encouraged to test out what you’re learning in practice: debating policies, analysing current events, and working on projects that mirror the challenges governments and organisations face today. You’ll also have access to world-class facilities, digital tools, and specialist research centres that bring your studies to life.

And because the university wants you to graduate with more than just theory, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to develop workplace skills, gain professional experience, and connect with global issues. Here’s how that looks in practice:

• Model Diplomacy in Action – Take part in Model NATO, an international simulation where you represent a country and negotiate real-world policy issues, with events hosted in cities like Washington, DC, London, and Lisbon.

• Professional & Global Placements – Explore opportunities to work with government bodies, NGOs, or policy think tanks, both in the UK and abroad, giving you a real taste of careers in the sector.

• Applied, Interdisciplinary Learning – Dive into modules that combine politics with sociology, psychology, philosophy, and media, helping you build a broad toolkit to tackle policy challenges.

• Policy-Shaping Research Links – Learn alongside academics involved in influential research centres such as the Governance and Social Development Resource Centre (GSDRC) and the Health Services Management Centre, which advise policymakers worldwide.

• Specialist Libraries & Digital Resources – Access dedicated social policy resources, from ProQuest databases and policy archives to guides on race, gender, and social justice issues.

• Group Projects & Case Studies – Work closely with classmates in seminars and workshops, developing skills in teamwork, debate, and policy problem-solving.

• Career-Focused Support – Make use of tailored careers guidance and employability support from the School of Social Policy, helping you link your degree directly to the roles you want after graduation.

Graduates from this degree step into careers where they can make a real difference in society and policy. Many go on to become policy analysts, civil service officers, or work with NGOs and charities, while others take up roles in international organisations and diplomacy. Thanks to the mix of politics and social policy, you’ll graduate with the skills to analyse complex issues, influence decision-making, and drive positive change.

Here’s how Birmingham sets you up for success:

• Personalised career support through the University’s Careers Network, which offers one-to-one advice, employer events, CV workshops, and interview prep.

• A strong reputation with employers: Birmingham is the most targeted UK university by top graduate recruiters, giving you a real advantage in the job market.

• Opportunities to gain experience through professional development modules, Model NATO simulations in cities like Washington DC, London and Lisbon, and other international activities that build your practical skills.

• A degree with long-term value: as part of the prestigious Russell Group, Birmingham’s name carries real weight worldwide, opening doors across sectors.

• Impressive outcomes: graduates from this programme are highly employable, with starting salaries around £30,000 for roles in leading organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, you’ll have plenty of options. Many students move on to a Master’s degree in areas like Public Policy, International Relations, or Development Studies. If research excites you, you could pursue an MRes or PhD in Politics or Social Policy. There are also focused postgraduate diplomas and certificates in fields such as Diplomacy, Human Rights, or Public Administration — perfect if you want to build specialist expertise.