Politics and Social Policy BA

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.

A degree in Politics and Social Policy from Birmingham opens doors to a wide range of impactful careers where you can influence change, shape policy, and improve lives. Graduates go on to work in government, international organisations, think tanks, NGOs, and research institutions — using their skills to tackle real social challenges and contribute to policy decisions. Typical roles include policy analyst or advisor, social researcher, public affairs officer, and international development specialist.

Here’s how this degree sets you up for success:

• Personalised careers support: The University’s award-winning Careers Network offers one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and internship opportunities tailored to social policy and political careers.

• Strong graduate outcomes:  Approximately 90% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of completing the degree, earning an average salary of around £ 28,000 soon after graduation.

• Real-world experience while you study: Through the optional Professional Development module, you can gain hands-on experience with government departments, policy agencies, NGOs, or social organisations — building a strong CV before you even graduate.

• Valued by employers: The University of Birmingham is part of the prestigious Russell Group and is regularly targeted by leading employers in the public and social sectors, thanks to its reputation for producing highly skilled and work-ready graduates.

• Diverse career pathways: Alumni work across public policy, international development, social research, communications, and public service — and many use the skills they develop to move into leadership roles or shape policy on a global scale.

Further Academic Progression:
If you wish to deepen your expertise, this degree provides an excellent foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies. Many graduates progress to master’s programmes such as MA Social Policy, Public Policy and Administration, International Development, or Political Science, while others pursue PhDs or specialist professional qualifications in policy analysis, public administration, or social research.